YOUR CAT AND DIABETES:

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes Mellitus (DM), also known as sugar diabetes, is the
most common form of diabetes in cats, occurring in about one
of every 500 cats.

DM can develop at any age, but the usual onset in cats is
between 8 and 13 years.  Neutered males have a higher risk,
with obesity playing a major role.  It can also be caused
inadvertently by some medications.

HOW DOES IT ACT IN THE BODY?

DM alters the way the body regulates sugar.  Here's what happens:

Food is taken in by the body which converts nearly all of
the carbohydrates into glucose (a form of sugar) that
circulates in the blood.

Before the body can use the glucose as energy, it must get
into the individual cells.  The hormone insulin comes into
play as the "key" that unlocks the cells allowing the

glucose to enter so it can be used as energy.

Insulin is produced by the pancreas, the V-shaped organ
located in the abdomen.  If the pancreas does not produce
any or enough insulin, as in DM, glucose cannot be used
and the cells start to use fat and protein stores as
energy.  Higher than normal levels or glucose circulate
in the blood  and are eventually excreted in the urine.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The early signs of DM are:

>--Weakness
>--Increased thirst and increased urination - caused by
>  the need to flush out the excess glucose.
>--Increased appetite and rapid weight loss - The body is
>  literally starving because it cannot get the glucose needed
>  for energy
>--Depression
>
HOW IS IT MANAGED?

Since there is no cure for DM, your cat will have to be given
insulin for the rest of his life. Once the correct dosage and
special dietary requirements are determined, you take on the role of caretaker for this disease.  

 

Dealing with diabetes requires your commitment and responsibility, but don't despair, it is very manageable. Insulin is given just under the skin,or subcutaneously, and is not difficult to do once you et used to giving the shots.
Giving a shot to a cat may be much easier than giving a shot to a human because of the fur.

WHAT HAPPENS IF DM IS LEFT UNTREATED?

If the disease is left unchecked, major complications can
occur such as blindness, chronic infections, liver and kidney
degeneration, neurological problems, coma, and even death. (If
you notice any of the symptoms listed above, get your cat to
the vet right away).

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Your vet will perform a urine test and a blood glucose test,
which along with your cat's history, will give an accurate
diagnosis.  Until the type and level of insulin is determined,
your cat may require hospitalization.

Let your vet guide you and provide you with the encouragement
you may need in managing your cat's diabetes.  You and your
vet you will become a close team that can ensure the happiest
and healthiest life possible for your precious companion,
even with DM!