18/07/2026
Stress hyperglycemia is a temporary increase in blood sugar that can happen when a dog or cat becomes frightened, anxious, or stressed during a visit to the veterinary clinic or even while having blood collected. This is especially common in cats, but it can also occur in dogs. A single high blood sugar reading does not always mean your pet has diabetes. Veterinarians also consider your pet's clinical signs, urine glucose, and, if needed, additional tests such as fructosamine before confirming diabetes. Starting insulin based only on one stress-related high blood sugar result can be dangerous. In a pet that is not truly diabetic, insulin may cause severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), leading to weakness, seizures, coma, or even death if not treated promptly. A correct diagnosis is the key to safe and effective treatment.