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Diabetes in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

There are two primary types of diabetes that can affect pets: diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. Both conditions are serious and require proper veterinary care. In fact, pet insurance data from Nationwide shows that in 2016 alone, pet owners submitted nearly $3.4 million in claims for diabetes-related treatments. With vet visits ranging from $180 to $500 per visit, managing diabetes in pets can be costly, making early detection and proper treatment essential.

The Hidden Danger of Pet Obesity

We often hear about the rising obesity rates in people, but did you know our pets are facing the same challenge? In the U.S., more than half of all cats and dogs are overweight. In fact, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention reports that about 60% of cats and 56% of dogs—roughly 56.5 million cats and 50.2 million dogs—are carrying extra pounds. This isn’t just about looks; it can seriously affect their health and quality of life.

Understanding Pet Allergies: A Guide for Pet Owners

Allergies aren’t just a problem for humans—our pets can suffer from them too. Whether it’s itchy skin, recurring ear infections, or digestive troubles, allergies can make them just as uncomfortable as they do us. Understanding the triggers and finding the right solutions can help improve their quality of life and keep them happy and healthy.

Congenital Pet Defects

Some pets are born with physical abnormalities, known as congenital disabilities, which can affect different parts of their bodies or organs. Some of these issues are mild and might even go away on their own, while others can impact their growth, lead to health problems, or, in severe cases, shorten their lifespan.

Understanding Pet Ear Infections: What You Need to Know

Ear infections are a common issue for pets, especially dogs. Also known as otitis externa, this condition occurs when the ear canal becomes inflamed due to parasites, yeast, bacteria, or even a foreign object getting stuck inside. In fact, ear infections are one of the top health concerns for dogs. In 2016, pet owners with Nationwide insurance spent over $8.7 million treating ear infections, making it the most common insurance claim for dogs that year.

Cancer Treatment for Dogs: A New Hope

It’s tough to imagine that our beloved pets, who bring us so much happiness, can also struggle with serious issues like cancer. For years, treatment options for dogs with cancer were far behind what humans had. But there’s hope—things are starting to improve.