Diabetes alters the way the body regulates glucose (blood sugar). Normally, when food is taken in by the body, nearly all of the carbohydrates are converted into glucose. The glucose circulates in the blood stream where it eventually enters into individual cells and is used up as energy. The hormone insulin, normally produced by the pancreas, allows glucose to enter the cells. When a cat has diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. The glucose circulates in the blood and after it builds up to excessive levels, it is excreted in the urine.
It is essential to catch diabetes early, because excessive blood glucose can cause major complications such as chronic infections, liver and kidney degeneration, neurological problems, coma, and even death.
Pets do not have the ability to tell us when they feel sick, so the only way we know is if they show us certain symptoms.
Sometimes, owners forget to tell their veterinarian relevant information about their pets. Here is a useful checklist to bring with you to your next veterinary appointment.
Once you have completed the checklist, print and take to your veterinarian so you can discuss the results together. In the event your veterinarian decides to prescribe medication to your cat, you may want to print off our
Prescription Authorization Form and bookmark this information on
how to order a prescription at Drs. Foster and Smith's Licensed Pharmacy, where you can save on all of your faithful friends' prescriptions.
Home care for cats with diabetes
There is no cure for diabetes and your cat will in most cases have to be given
insulin, or
Glipizide for life. Once the dosage is determined, your veterinarian will go over diet requirements to manage the disease. Although diabetes is a serious condition, with commitment and proper care, this disease is usually manageable.
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