Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic metabolic disorder in dogs, characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Diabetic dogs undergoing general anesthesia present unique perioperative challenges, as anesthesia itself can exacerbate insulin resistance and glycemic instability, thereby increasing the risk of life-threatening complications. This review summarizes the pathophysiology of diabetes in dogs, current antidiabetic treatment strategies, and the physiological alterations relevant to anesthetic management. Key perioperative considerations include preoperative stabilization of blood glucose, electrolytes, and hydration; appropriate insulin dosing protocols; and vigilant intraoperative monitoring of glycemia, hemodynamics, and electrolyte balance. Specific anesthetic agents and their interactions with glycemic control are discussed, with particular attention to the hyperglycemic effects of alpha-2 agonists and inhalant anesthetics. The review also provides a synthesis of recent epidemiological data on insulin-resistant canine diabetes from 2005 to 2025. Optimal perioperative glycemic control, guided by regular blood glucose monitoring and individualized anesthetic protocols, is essential for reducing morbidity and mortality in diabetic dogs undergoing surgery.