About Diabetes & Metabolic Care

Diabetes mellitus in cats, commonly known as feline diabetes, is a condition where the cat's body cannot effectively regulate blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. Managing diabetes in cats is crucial and often involves a combination of medication, prescription diets, and lifestyle adjustments. Diagnosing cat diabetes involves blood tests, including glucose curves and urine glucose levels. Increased urine production and excessive thirst are typical clinical signs of diabetes. Early diagnosis and effective diabetes management are crucial for the cat's well-being.

One of the primary treatments for diabetic cats is insulin therapy, usually administered through insulin injections. The goal is maintaining blood glucose levels within a normal range, as elevated blood glucose can lead to complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Insulin therapy helps counteract insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production in diabetic cats.

In cases where insulin doses need adjustment, cat owners need to work closely with veterinarians. The cat's insulin dose is individualized based on blood glucose level, weight, and insulin response. Regular blood tests and adjustments to the insulin treatment plan are crucial for optimal diabetes management. Not all diabetic cats require insulin injections; some may be managed with oral medications. However, oral medications are typically reserved for certain cases, and most diabetic cats benefit from insulin therapy.

Prescription foods designed for diabetic cats often contain a low carbohydrate diet, which helps control blood sugar levels. Obesity is one of the risk factors for diabetes in cats, and a carefully controlled diet can aid in weight management. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall diabetes management, as fat and protein stores play a role in insulin resistance.

Diabetic cats may exhibit clinical signs such as increased appetite, weight loss, and excessive thirst. Regular blood tests, including blood glucose curves, are essential for monitoring the cat's blood glucose levels. Home glucose monitoring is also recommended to provide a comprehensive view of the cat's blood sugar control.

Left untreated, diabetes can lead to severe complications. The cat's blood sugar level may drop dangerously low, causing stress hyperglycemia. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention. Uncontrolled diabetes in cats can lead to serious complications, including urinary tract infections and chronic kidney disease. Elevated blood glucose levels can affect the cat's kidneys and increase the risk of developing other diseases. Therefore, managing diabetes is not only about blood sugar control but also about preventing secondary health issues.

At PetCareRx, you can find several medicines and prescription foods often prescribed by veterinarians for diabetic cats. Cat owners should work closely with their veterinarians to determine the most appropriate medications and prescription diets for their diabetic cats.

• Furosemide: Furosemide is a diuretic medication commonly prescribed for cats with conditions such as congestive heart failure, edema (fluid retention), and certain kidney disorders. Furosemide is sometimes prescribed to cats with kidney problems, particularly in cases where fluid retention (edema) is a concern. Furosemide is a diuretic medication that works by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes through the kidneys. 

• ProZinc Insulin: ProZinc is a type of insulin used for the management of diabetes mellitus in cats. It is an intermediate-acting insulin, meaning it has a more prolonged effect compared to short-acting insulin.

• Glipizide (brand names may include Glucotrol and Glucotrol XL): An oral medication that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin.

• Hill's Prescription Diet m/d: This prescription diet supports weight management in diabetic cats by providing a high-protein, low-carbohydrate formula.

• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DM (Diabetes Management): This prescription diet is formulated to regulate blood glucose levels in diabetic cats through controlled carbohydrate intake and balanced nutrition.

• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Diabetic DS 46: Formulated to regulate glucose supply, this prescription diet has a low carbohydrate content and supports weight management.

• Hill's Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit: While primarily designed for weight management, this diet may also benefit diabetic cats due to its controlled carbohydrate levels.

• Purina Veterinary Diets DM Dietetic Management: Specifically formulated to support glucose management, this prescription diet features a high protein and low carbohydrate profile.

• Iams Veterinary Formula Glucose Control Plus Restricted Calorie: This diet is designed to help manage glucose levels while supporting weight loss in overweight diabetic cats.

• Waltham Prescription Diet Feline Diabetic Control: Formulated to assist in glucose control, this prescription diet is designed for diabetic cats.

Diabetic remission, where a cat's body starts producing enough insulin independently, is a possible outcome with proper management. However, achieving and maintaining diabetic remission is challenging, and not all cats experience it.