Insulinoma is a tumor of the pancreas that causes dangerous hypoglycaemia in dogs, requiring careful management to prevent life-threatening episodes.
Insulinoma causes severe episodic welfare harm through hypoglycaemic crises - seizures, disorientation, collapse, and loss of consciousness. Between episodes, subtle chronic hypoglycaemia causes weakness, confusion, and behavioral changes that significantly impair quality of life. The unpredictability of crises causes significant anxiety for owners and affects the dog's ability to enjoy normal exercise and activities. Surgical debulking, even when curative is not possible, often significantly reduces crisis frequency. Medical management allows many dogs to achieve good quality of life for months to years. Clear emergency protocols and home glucose testing empower owners to respond rapidly to crises.