Glucagonoma is a pancreatic tumor that secretes abnormal levels of glucagon, which can cause appetite changes, weight loss, and blood sugar irregularities. Diagnosis usually requires blood work, biochemistry, and imaging — your vet will determine the appropriate tests.

What tests does the vet usually run to confirm the diagnosis?

Common tests include serum biochemistry and blood glucose, urinalysis, abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, and sometimes a tissue biopsy to confirm the nature and location of the lesion. Your vet will decide which tests are needed.

What are the treatment options and key follow-up points?

Treatment may include symptomatic management to control blood glucose, surgical removal, or medical supportive care, along with regular rechecks of glucose and biochemistry values. The specific plan depends on your pet's condition and your vet's recommendations.

When should I take my pet to the vet if I notice something wrong?

Seek emergency care immediately if your pet has seizures, loses consciousness, shows signs of severe dehydration, or has pale or bluish gums. For lethargy, reduced appetite, or recurring diarrhea, schedule a clinic visit as soon as possible.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Glucagonoma in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Glucagonoma is a rare malignant pancreatic tumor that causes skin lesions and diabetes-like signs. Surgical removal is the primary treatment, but metastasis is common at diagnosis and the prognosis is generally poor.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Immediate veterinary care needed (emergency)

•Seizures or brief loss of consciousness occur
•The gums or lips become pale or bluish-purple
•Persistent inability to drink water or signs of obvious dehydration

Schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Persistent lethargy or decreased activity
•Reduced appetite or sudden picky eating
•Repeated diarrhea or obvious abdominal discomfort

01What symptoms should concern me?

Glucagonoma in dogs and cats typically causes non-specific systemic signs — watch for behavioral and physical changes.

Persistent lethargy or a noticeable drop in activity level
Reduced appetite or sudden picky eating
Recurrent diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel habits
Unexplained gradual weight loss
Increased water intake or frequent urination (polydipsia/polyuria)

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Seizures or a brief loss of consciousness
⚠️ Pale or bluish gums or lip color
⚠️ Inability to keep water down or signs of severe dehydration

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to go to the emergency clinic

Detailed at-home observations help your vet quickly understand how the condition is progressing and prioritize the right tests.

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have changed over time
Weigh your pet at the same time each day and log the results
Use your phone to record short clips of activity levels, drinking, or unusual stools
Track daily water intake and the number of urination episodes
Record diarrhea details — frequency, consistency, color — and any accompanying signs

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

Your vet will typically start with blood work, biochemistry, urinalysis, and imaging; further localization or sampling may follow as needed.

Complete blood count (CBC)

check for anemia or signs of infection

Serum biochemistry panel and blood glucose

assess organ function and metabolic status

Urinalysis

evaluate metabolic function and urine-concentrating ability

Abdominal ultrasound

examine the pancreas and surrounding organs for abnormalities

Advanced imaging (CT scan)

lesion localization and surgical planning when indicated

Tissue biopsy or fine-needle aspirate

confirm the pathological diagnosis when feasible

Referral to a specialist hospital may be recommended if advanced equipment or expertise is required

04What treatment and care come after diagnosis? Medications, diet, and home-care guide

Treatment is guided by the patient's condition and typically includes metabolic management, medical or surgical intervention, and routine monitoring.

Medication and supportive care to manage blood glucose and relieve clinical signs
Surgical resection of the tumor may be evaluated if the patient is a suitable candidate
Dietary adjustments and nutritional guidance tailored to each individual patient
Regular recheck appointments to monitor blood glucose, biochemistry, and imaging findings
At-home care focuses on maintaining adequate hydration, a stable diet, and tracking symptom changes
Reassess the need for specialist referral or treatment modification if symptoms worsen

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help your vet find answers quickly

Prepare a symptom log noting when signs first appeared and how they have changed

List recent diet, appetite, and water-intake changes

Document stool frequency and characteristics; bring photos or short videos

Bring a list of any current medications and supplements

Bring any previous test results or imaging if available

Call ahead to ask whether a specialist appointment or specific tests should be arranged

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.