Caring for a Diabetic Cat

Although diabetes is less common in cats than in some other species, our feline friends can nevertheless be affected. In fact, the illness affects around one in every hundred, or one percent, of our feline buddies. 

Fortunately, diabetic cats can still lead full, happy lives and are equally charming and entertaining as any other kitty. This article offers insightful advice on diabetic cat care from a local Coquitlam, British Columbia veterinarian.

What are the diabetic risk factors for cats?

Diabetes can strike any cat at any stage of life. That said, there are some risk factors that might raise the likelihood. You should consider Fluffy’s weight, for instance. Between a third and a half of all diabetic cats are clinically obese. Comparatively to females, neutered male cats frequently show a higher illness rate. 

Certain feline breeds, including the Burmese, Russian Blue, Norwegian Forest Cat, and Abyssinian, are also more prone to diabetes. Purebreds are also diagnosed with diabetes than domestic cats. Your pet may be more vulnerable if she has been administered glucocorticoids, medications sometimes used to control immunosuppression.

Keep in mind a few more risk factors as follows:

• Pregnancy
• Pancreatic illness
• Hyperthyroidism 
• Dental problems
• Kidney disease
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections

For cats diagnosed with diabetes, what is their typical lifespan?

Each cat is unique and special, hence there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this. With the right treatment strategy, cats diagnosed with diabetes can enjoy a decent quality of life for a considerable length of time. Like many other medical conditions, the outcome really depends on each situation. 

Although Fluffy’s age and general condition are obviously crucial considerations, they are not the only ones. For example, one key indicator is your pet’s serum creatinine levels. Higher concentration could indicate the presence of diabetes. After diagnosis and evaluation of your pet, your Coquitlam, British Columbia vet will discuss the specifics with you.

Taking care of a cat with diabetes: what is the best approach?

In many respects, caring for a diabetic feline is like looking after any other cat. As the cheeky and adorable companion you know and love, Fluffy will continue to need cuddles, catnip, and boxes. Beyond this, here are a few other things to keep in mind:

Diet

Diet is important in many facets of your cat’s life, including her diagnosis with diabetes. Steer away of feeding a diabetic cat foods that are heavy in carbohydrates. Check labels as well and avoid products that contain a lot of grains, corn, or potatoes. Sweet foods are definitely off the list of approved items. Fortunately, this isn’t usually a major concern for cats. Limiting human foods, dairy, and salty foods is usually wise. 

Your pet’s nutritional needs will evolve based on her age, weight, and general health. You can get specific guidance about this topic from your Coquitlam, British Columbia veterinarian. 

Insulin

Fluffy may also need insulin shots. Though this may seem a bit overwhelming at first, once you get the hang of it, it really shouldn’t take more than a minute or two each day. Your Coquitlam, British Columbia vet will guide you in what to do moving forward. Generally, injections are given twice a day, though some cats may only need one shot per day. 

You may also need to check your pet’s glucose levels. This is done using a glucose meter. To obtain a drop of blood, gently prick your pet’s skin. (Trust us—it’s simpler than it sounds!) Your vet will provide you with exact directions to follow. 

Regular Veterinary Exams

Maintaining regular veterinary care visits is important, even for cats in excellent health. Diabetic cats especially depend on this. Your Coquitlam, British Columbia veterinarian can advise on a suitable medical care routine. Based on how Fluffy responds to her medicine and how her health changes, her treatment plan may require occasional tweaks.

Cuddles!

Like any other fur baby, your cat will thrive with lots of affection, cuddles, and TLC. Diabetic kitties are just as loving, friendly, and fun. Keep that engine humming!

What signs of diabetes should I watch for?

Cats have a tendency to hide their symptoms when they’re not feeling very well. This instinct helps them survive in wild. Because of this, you’ll need to watch your pet closely and be on the lookout for any indicators that something could be wrong.

Here are some of the most common red flags to watch for:

• Increased thirst
• Weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Weakness (Particularly In Back Legs)
• Unusual Gait/Posture
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Decreased appetite
• Inability to jump
• Poor Coat Condition
• Urinary tract infection
• Seizures
• Coma
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Collapse
• Depression

Contact your Coquitlam, British Columbia animal clinic immediately if you observe any of these warning indicators. Getting your cat diagnosed and treated right away is essential. 

What are the signs of high sugar levels? 

Knowing how to spot a glucose surge is crucial in diabetic cats. Excessive thirst, increased hunger, and more frequent urination are some typical warning signals to pay attention to. 

What is Diabetic Ketoanosis?

When the body cannot absorb the glucose in the blood, it results in diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA for short. Since the body uses glucose to turn food into energy, it is absolutely vital. DKA usually stems from another medical issue, such as kidney disease, cancer, or pancreatitis. 

DKA can be dangerous, because regardless of what or how much Fluffy eats, her cells are almost starved. Higher glucose levels follow from this. Additionally, the body will begin to burn fat. 

Signs of DKA include tiredness, vomiting, trouble eating, and respiratory problems. Under more dire circumstances, kitty could potentially go into a coma. DKA unfortunately can develop into a major, life-threatening illness.

If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your Coquitlam, British Columbia vet immediately.

At what age does diabetes usually strike?

Although fluffy can develop diabetes at any age, she is more likely to encounter this disorder by the time she reaches six years or above. That said, it’s usually diagnosed between the ages of and 13 years old, with an average age of about 10.

What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Often referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes or IDDM, Type 1 diabetes results from the pancreas not producing insulin. Kitties with this kind of diabetes will need insulin shots for the rest of their lives.

Type 2 results from inadequate insulin production. Although your pet could be producing insulin, her body isn’t using it the way it should. Cats deemed to be obese or who carry extra weight often show this kind, and it is much more prevalent than Type 1. 

Plan a visit to our Coquitlam, British Columbia animal clinic!

Have more questions or concerns about diabetes in cats? Perhaps you just need some professional advice on maintaining general feline health. Contact us to make an appointment. As your trusted pet hospital in Coquitlam, British Columbia, we are here to serve you!