In both animals and humans, hypoglycemia is a sudden drop in blood glucose concentration. Falling below normal levels. Glucose is used by the body, human or animal, as a source of vital energy to perform many functions. The liver is in charge of its manufacture and storage for when it is necessary to pass into the blood and, thus, go to the place that needs it most urgently.
In this Shih Tzu Time article, we want to talk to you about Shih Tzu Hypoglycemia, its causes and main symptoms to help you identify it in time. Since it is an emergency that can be fatal if it is not treated in a timely manner.
Causes of Shih Tzu Hypoglycemia
There are different types of causes, from those caused by us, or veterinarians, to hereditary or genetic, for breeds that are more prone to this problem due to their size.
The so-called transient juvenile hypoglycemia is found more frequently in miniature breeds such as Shih Tzu. Among other reasons due to a prolonged fast. In general, it occurs between 5 and 15 weeks of life. It does not happen in all cases, but it is quite common and requires immediate veterinary attention. In these cases it is important that they always have food available, at least until the year of life.
This type of hypoglycemia is triggered by stress or excessive exercise for, on many occasions, living in homes with children who want to play at any time, since it is difficult to control. Adding to this that many are so small that they do not have enough muscle mass to store glucose and take it in case of excessive exercise, we will have a better chance of having a case.
Shih Tzu’s that are treated with insulin , due to liver damage or other organic causes, it sometimes happens that the dose is not calculated correctly and an excess is applied, the animal has not eaten enough compared to the dose received or had previously vomited. Insulin overdose is common , either due to a miscalculation or double injection. Another common cause of hypoglycemia in Shih Tzu is has been more active during the day and, therefore, the dose that is normally applied is not enough.
Types and symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Shih Tzu
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Shih Tzus
Hypoglycemia in Shih Tzus can progress rapidly through three stages: mild, moderate, and severe. Recognizing these symptoms early is critical to preventing the condition from escalating to a life-threatening level.
Mild Hypoglycemia
The first stage of hypoglycemia presents with subtle signs that can be easy to overlook. Your Shih Tzu may appear unusually weak or tired and may lose interest in eating. Shivering or trembling, often mistaken for cold, can also occur. These signs indicate that your dog’s blood sugar levels are beginning to drop, and immediate action is necessary to prevent further decline.
Moderate Hypoglycemia
As hypoglycemia progresses, the symptoms become more pronounced. Your Shih Tzu may experience poor coordination, walking in circles, or displaying behaviors that resemble drunkenness. Disorientation and vision problems may also occur, leading to excessive barking or signs of agitation. This stage of hypoglycemia requires urgent intervention to prevent it from worsening.
Severe Hypoglycemia
Severe hypoglycemia is the most dangerous stage and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Symptoms include seizures, loss of consciousness, stupor, and even coma. At this point, the risk of death is significant. If your Shih Tzu reaches this stage, immediate emergency veterinary care is essential.
Treatments for Shih Tzu’s Hypoglycemia
Treating Shih Tzu Hypoglycemia
If your Shih Tzu shows signs of hypoglycemia, quick and decisive action can save your dog’s life. Here’s what you should do:
Offer Food Immediately
At the first sign of hypoglycemia, offer your Shih Tzu some food to help raise its blood sugar levels. Simple carbohydrates like rice or bread can be effective, but any food is better than none. If your Shih Tzu is unwilling or unable to eat, you need to take further steps to manage the condition.
Administering Honey or Glucose Syrup
If your Shih Tzu refuses food, you can give it a small amount of honey or glucose syrup. For small dogs like Shih Tzus, a teaspoon of honey should suffice. For larger dogs, a tablespoon is appropriate. Honey works quickly to raise blood sugar levels because it is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream.
In cases where your dog refuses to swallow, you can apply the honey directly to its gums. The gums will absorb the glucose, albeit in smaller amounts, but it can still help stabilize your dog until you can get to a vet.
Emergency Glucose Solution
If you don’t have honey or glucose syrup available, you can make an emergency glucose solution using sugar and water. Dissolve one tablespoon of sugar in a small amount of water (approximately 5 kg of your dog’s weight). Keep this solution on hand, prepared in advance, for use in emergencies.
Once your Shih Tzu’s blood sugar levels have stabilized, it’s essential to visit your veterinarian immediately. The vet may need to adjust your dog’s insulin dosage or explorest visit your veterinarian to have the next dose of insulin adjusted so that hypoglycemia does not occur again.
We’ve included a list of Vitamins that may assist Shih Tzus avoid hypoglycemia.
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Long-Term Management of Shih Tzu Hypoglycemia
After an episode of hypoglycemia, long-term management is crucial to prevent future incidents. Regular feeding schedules, proper insulin management, and avoiding excessive exercise are all key factors in keeping your Shih Tzu healthy.
Consistent Feeding Schedule
Ensure your Shih Tzu eats at regular intervals throughout the day. For puppies or dogs prone to hypoglycemia, frequent small meals can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Avoid long periods between meals, especially for puppies under a year old.
Monitoring and Adjusting Insulin
If your Shih Tzu is on insulin therapy, consistent monitoring is essential. Work closely with your veterinarian to ensure the dosage is correct and adjust it as needed, particularly if your dog’s activity levels change.
Regular Veterinary Check-Ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring your Shih Tzu’s overall health, especially if they have a history of hypoglycemia. Your vet can run tests to ensure that your dog’s blood sugar levels are stable and that there are no underlying health issues contributing to the condition.
Preventive Measures and Awareness
Being aware of the signs of hypoglycemia and knowing how to respond can prevent serious health issues in your Shih Tzu. Always keep honey or a glucose solution on hand, and maintain a consistent feeding and exercise schedule.
Conclusion
Hypoglycemia is a serious condition that requires immediate attention, particularly in small breeds like Shih Tzus. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to treat it, you can ensure that your Shih Tzu remains healthy and happy. Regular vet visits, proper feeding schedules, and awareness of your dog’s needs are key to preventing and managing hypoglycemia effectively.
References
- Smith, R. E., & Wess, G. (2019). Canine Hypoglycemia: Pathophysiology and Treatment. Veterinary Medicine International.
- Jones, A. M., & Clark, A. L. (2020). Management of Hypoglycemia in Small Breed Dogs. Journal of Small Animal Practice.
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Hypoglycemia in Dogs. Retrieved from AKC.org.
By providing a detailed understanding and practical steps for managing Shih Tzu hypoglycemia, this expanded guide aims to equip dog owners with the knowledge they need to keep their pets safe and healthy.