Insulinoma

An insulinoma is a tumour of the pancreas that produces insulin in an uncontrolled way. The excess insulin drives blood glucose down, sometimes to levels that affect how the brain and body function. Most insulinomas in dogs are malignant, though they often grow slowly; in cats the condition is rare. Owners typically notice episodes that can look like weakness, confusion, wobbliness, or collapse, often appearing after exercise or a period without food. The signs may come and go, and between episodes the animal can seem entirely normal. Because the pattern can be subtle at first, it is not always obvious that glucose is involved. This page explores what changes may be noticed, what is happening inside the pancreas and bloodstream, how insulinoma is investigated and distinguished from other causes of low glucose, and what approaches exist for managing the condition over time.