Sugar Drop in the Chihuahua Chihuahuas, like other toy breeds, are at increased risk of suffering from hypoglycemia or low blood glucose levels, especially as puppies. This condition can he very serious, with symptoms leading to seizures, coma and even death if treatment is not applied in time. But there are a number of causes and the condition is in no way limited to puppies and can be found in any age. The signs of low blood glucose levels result from nervous system dysfunction as blood glucose is the primary source of energy to the brain. There signs include lethargy weakness, wobbly gait, unusual behaviour, seizures and coma. Stress responses may also show as muscle tremors, nervousness, restlessness and hunger. Puppies are most at risk due a number of syndromes. The first, an environmental problem, results from new born pups having a poorer ability to generate glucose in response to low environmental temperatures and the resultant low blood glucose levels.
The new born pup should be housed in an environment with a temperature between 20 C and 30 C for the first few weeks of life and Chihuahuas are more susceptible to cold due to their tiny body mass. Monitor the nest box temperature with a thermometer and simply extra heating if required. Chilling or hypothermia of new born pups promotes the development of low blood glucose and oxygen levels,along with poor digestive function. This is manifested in the signs above. Toy breeds also suffer from a higher incidence of poor liver function due to abnormal shunting away from the liver and into the general circulation. The liver plays a major role in normal glucose regulation so these shunts can induce hypoglycemia. Although this problem is primarily a genetic one, affected dogs may be presented as "fading puppies", or they can develop problems after general anaesthesia. Another genetically based form occurs during the nursing period because of inadequate glycogen stores or immature liver enzyme systems. Hypoglycemia can also occur due to failure to adapt to fasting during the post-weaning period, with signs related to the severity of the lowering of the blood glucose level.
Hypoglycemia in older animals is most commonly from growths in the pancreas that causes excessive secretion of insulin, which then lowers the blood glucose level. This condition occurs between 3 & 14 years though most often develops at around 10 years. It is found in both sexes though Chihuahuas are not a high risk breed. Of interest is how this condition tends to show up as an episodic event, with signs for only seconds or up to minutes then an extended period of normality. Seizures are the most common sign, usually being self-limiting, and running for 30 seconds up to 5 minutes. Episodes are commonly related to fasting, exercise, excitement or a certain tinic (2 to 6 hours) after eating. If these episodes can be found to be caused by a tumour, surgery is indicated, but on the understanding that the tumour could have already spread. Be aware though that these types of episodic attacks can be caused by long list of problems, not just hypoglycemia. Best to consult your vet to identify the cause.
The home treatment of pets suffering from hypoglycemia is based on 3 steps
1. Rub glucose or honey or karo syrup on the pets gums.
2. Once the pet sits up, feed it a small meal.
3. Call your vet, as further treatment may be needed.
The Chihuahua is at higher risk of hypoglycemia than other breeds, especially as a puppy, with a combination of genetic and environmental causes. Older dogs showing signs that could be hypoglycemia require veterinary attention to identify the cause of the episodic attacks, and the best treatment course.
By Dr Jon Fearnley B.V.SE |
