Diabetes isn't on the rise just in people: The disease jumpec 32 percent in dogs and 16 percent in cats over the last five years, according to a report from Banfield Pet Hospital, a national chain headquartered in Portland, OR. Like the human affliction, pet diabetes is often linked to obesity-especially in cats, which tend to be physically inactive. Symptoms are the same for both species and include excessive urination and increased thirst, says Denise Elliott, DV.M., Ph.D., a veterinarian and nutritionist at Banfield. "Early diagnosis is key," she says, "so report any warning signs to your vet."
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