Diabetic pet emergencies: what to do right now
A quick-action guide to the two diabetic emergencies — a hypo (low blood sugar) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — and exactly what to do for each.
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Diabetic pet emergencies: what to do right now
There are two diabetic emergencies worth knowing cold, because in both, quick action matters. (A step-by-step video is coming; the full instructions are written out below so you have them now.)
Emergency 1 — a hypo (low blood sugar)
Signs: sudden weakness, wobbliness, trembling, disorientation, collapse or seizures, often after insulin.
What to do
If your pet is conscious, rub honey or glucose syrup on the gums and contact your vet immediately. If unconscious or seizing, do not put anything in the mouth — take them to the vet straight away.
Our full hypoglycaemia guide covers prevention in detail.
Emergency 2 — diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
This is the danger at the other extreme — diabetes that has become severely uncontrolled. Signs build over hours to days: vomiting, refusing food, marked lethargy or weakness, increased breathing effort, and sometimes a sweet, acetone-like smell on the breath.
DKA is a medical emergency
Contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. It cannot be managed at home.
The rule that covers both
When in doubt, call your vet immediately
If your diabetic pet is suddenly and seriously unwell — collapsed, seizing, repeatedly vomiting, or not responding normally — don't wait to see if it passes. Call your vet or the nearest emergency clinic straight away. With diabetes, fast action is almost always the safest choice.
Keep your vet's number and the nearest out-of-hours clinic saved in your phone today, before you ever need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's Next?
Continue your diabetes management journey with these recommended next steps.
Mello is a tracking and communication tool, not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for medical decisions about your pet.