Panting is not good - it could be diabetic ketoacidosis. Yes, even if the urine doesn't show it. Remember that urine collects over several hours.
From notes in a pathophysiology class:
A. Metabolic acidosis
. 1. Etiology: loss of bicarbonate or accumulation of non-volatile acid (carbonic acid is volatile.)
. . b. diabetic ketoacidosis
In uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, the body must utilize fats and amino acids for metabolic energy (because cells cannot access glucose or other carbohydrate.) Fat and amino acid metabolism results in the production of ketoacids as waste products. Thus, the diabetic who is poorly controlled--or forgets his insulin--will develop ketoacidosis.
. 2. Pathogenesis and Manifestations
. . a. deep rapid respiration (Kussmaul respiration)
Hydrogen ions from acid are a powerful stimulant for the respiratory chemoreceptors. Kussmaul respirations have been termed "air hunger", as the person seems to be "starving" for air. Note: rapid respiration is both a sign and a compensation for metabolic acidosis.
. . b. acetone breath
Ketoacids and other organic acids produced (or consumed in the case of poisoning) in metabolic acidosis have a strong fruity smell, like Juicy Fruit gum or nail polish remover. As these acids accumulate in blood and body fluids, they will be detectable on the breath.
. . c. decreased LOC, disorientation, coma
Acidosis interferes with cellular enzymes throughout the system. In the central nervous system, cellular malfunction is manifested as decreased level of consciousness progressing to coma.
. . d. ventricular arrhythmias, diminished cardiac output
As with respiratory acidosis, cellular malfunction in the heart affects cardiac conduction and myocardial contractility. This is observed as abnormal electrical conduction through the ventricle--ventricular arrhythmia. Decreased myocardial contractility causes diminished cardiac output.
