Diabetes in cats is treatable, but needs to be managed with care.
Every cat owner is saddened when their feline friend is struck with an illness. It’s something no one wants to go through, but it does happen, unfortunately. If not treated swiftly and accurately, cat diabetes can absolutely be a fatal condition. It is certainly treatable, but it must be taken seriously. We’re going to highlight what exactly cat diabetes is, the signs to look out for, some of the effects this condition can have on your cat, and the treatment methods that have been devised by experts in the field.
What Is It?
Cat diabetes is essentially the same as the human form of diabetes. The process occurs when the body struggles to produce insulin, meaning too much sugar stays within the blood, rather than being used up as energy. It’s a chemical imbalance that causes structural damage over time.
What Should You Look Out For?
The biggest sign that your cat may be suffering from diabetes is that they have an abnormal, increased thirst. In fact, if they’re drinking more than usual, that can also be a signal that something is wrong. And this is a trait that many wouldn’t even consider, because having a thirst to quench is normal. What comes after an increased thirst? You guessed it, increased urination. This is how the body tries to release the excess of sugar present. Whether it’s an unprecedented and unexplained weight loss, a deteriorating coat, or overall tiredness, it’s always smart to take your cat to the veterinarian if you suspect something is wrong.
What Are The Outcomes?
Untreated diabetes can lead to:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis – this can cause dehydration, loss of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. It usually requires intensive management including hospitalization.
- Diabetic Neuropathy – weakened hind legs due to motor and sensory nerve damage.
Treatment Methods?
Insulin injections are the only method of treatment available for cats with diabetes – oral medications are not effective. Also, feeding your cat canned food instead of dry food will help. The Catonsville Cat Clinic can teach owners how to monitor blood sugar levels at home to help better treat their cats. Finally, it’s worth knowing that any concurrent illness the cat may have, such as a UTI or dental disease, may make it more difficult to regulate diabetes.
Contact The Catonsville Cat Clinic Today If You Suspect Any Illness
For 20 years, the Catonsville Cat Clinic has been providing quality veterinary care to the cats of Catonsville and beyond! Dr. Pam Nesbitt, who purchased the practice in July of 2011, runs the Catonsville Cat Clinic with compassion in mind. A team of professionals with an advanced level of veterinary medicine is at your service to make sure your cat is healthy and happy. So stop on by; we’d love to get to know you and your cat!
For more updates and advice, be sure to follow our Facebook, Twitter, and Google+! You can get in touch with the Catonsville Cat Clinic by giving us a call at 410-869-0800 or visiting our contact page.