Diabetes in cats
Did you know that cats can also get diabetes? Just like humans, cats can also face a condition called diabetes mellitus. This occurs when their bodies either don't produce enough insulin or can't properly use the insulin they have.
What is diabetes in cats?
Diabetes in cats affects blood sugar regulation, often seen in middle-aged or older overweight felines. After digestion, glucose from food enters the bloodstream for energy. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, enables glucose entry into cells for fuel.
However, diabetic cats either lack sufficient insulin production or face insulin resistance. Consequently, glucose remains in the bloodstream, prompting the body to utilise alternative energy sources like fat and muscle protein, leading to weight loss and potential health issues.
Simply put, diabetes mellitus disrupts glucose metabolism in cats, causing weight changes and health complications if untreated.
What are common diabetes signs in cats?
Recognizing diabetes symptoms in cats is essential for their health. One major sign is increased thirst, often with more trips to the litter box and larger urine volumes. They might even start peeing outside the box. Changes in appetite can happen too, with weight loss despite a big appetite. Some cats also lose muscle mass, feel weak, or show poor coat quality. In rare cases, they may develop a unique stance due to nerve damage. While symptoms might overlap with other issues, it's advisable to see a vet for proper diagnosis and care. Early detection can really help your pet, so don't hesitate to seek help if you notice any of these signs.
How is diabetes diagnosed in cats?
To check if your cat has diabetes, your vet will start by checking their blood and urine for glucose levels. Your cat might need to stay at the clinic for a day for these tests. Diagnosis involves looking at the signs, along with high blood glucose and glucose in the urine. Tests could include blood work, urine tests, and a serum fructosamine test to confirm high glucose levels over time. Your vet might also keep an eye on your cat's weight to get a better picture of their health.
What are treatments for cats with diabetes?
Managing diabetes in cats involves several key strategies aimed at keeping their blood sugar levels in check and ensuring their overall health. The primary treatment method is administering insulin injections, typically once or twice a day. These injections are crucial for helping your cat regulate their glucose levels effectively and may become a part of their daily routine for the long term. Alongside insulin therapy, dietary adjustments are essential, especially if your cat is carrying extra weight. Your vet will offer personalised dietary recommendations to support your cat's health and stabilise their blood sugar levels.
Beyond insulin and diet, establishing a consistent daily routine is vital for effective diabetes management in cats.
Management tips for cats with diabetes
To keep your diabetic cat healthy, it's all about consistency. Make sure to check their glucose levels regularly at home using a glucometer, and keep an eye out for signs of low blood sugar. Stick to your vet's feeding and insulin schedule closely, and consider a high-protein, low-carb diet to help manage their condition. Keeping them active with playtime and exercise is important for their overall health and well-being. Don't forget to keep a detailed daily record of their diet, glucose levels, insulin doses, and weight changes to monitor their progress effectively.
While managing diabetes in cats may demand time and commitment, it's usually manageable in the long run.
In a crisis:
Immediately contact your vet if your cat exhibits symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, or changes in appetite, as these could be indicative of diabetes mellitus and require prompt veterinary attention.
It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life.
Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.
When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier.
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To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.