Feline diabetes :: Diabetes in Cat

Feline diabetes, or diabetes in cats, is one of the most commonly diagnosed metabolic disease in cats. It affects one in 400 cats. Comes in two types: Type 1 diabetes is caused by the insufficient insulin production by the pancreas and Type 2 diabetes is a result of an inadequate response to insulin. The pancreas' inability in producing adequate amounts of insulin to regulate blood glucose resulted in glucose being accumulated in the bloodstream instead of entering into body cells, a dangerous condition which could ends up causing great disabilities.

Causes
Feline diabetes can occur in cats of all breeds, ages, and genders. However, males are more likely to be stricken than are females, especially senior obese male cats, which are more than seven years old. Causes that increase the chances of developing diabetes can be from certain medications, heredity, and obesity. Researchers at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine revealed that overweight cats were four times as likely to contract diabetes than were cats of average weight, because obesity by itself can cause insulin resistance.

Common Symptoms of Feline Diabetes

Frequent urination - When blood glucose levels are too high, glucose is lost together with water through the kidneys.
Compelling thirst - Due to frequent urination.
Weight loss - Although blood-glucose levels are excessively high in diabetic cats, their tissues are starving for energy because glucose cannot get into their cells. As a result, diabetic cats usually lose weight.
Dramatically change in appetite.
Poor coat condition.
Lethargy
Liver disease.
Vomiting.
Breathing abnormalities.
Depression.

By looking at the symptoms, and a physical examination combined with tests on the cat’s blood and urine, veterinarian can diagnose the disease.

Treatment
Specific treatment for diabetes will be determined by veterinarian based on the severity of the disorder. Medication and diet are used to control blood sugar in most cats with feline diabetes. Beside insulin injections and proper diet plan, some are treated with oral hypoglycemic drug.

Although some cat owners prefer pills to injections, majority of veterinarians believe insulin injections are the best choice for most cats. There are several types of insulin available, veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate type, dosage, and frequency of administration to cater the needs of each individual cat. Majority of the diabetic cats required twice-daily injections, usually at 12-hour intervals. The rest may only need one shot a day.

Feline Diabetes is usually manageable, and is a treatable condition. But, it will require a significant amount of dedication on the part of the cat’s owner. A reminder to all cat's owner : Keeps your cats at a healthy weight, send them to a veterinarian at the first sign of symptoms.

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