November is all about Pet Diabetes Month!

November is all about Pet Diabetes Month! 

It’s the upcoming holiday this month where we can wear sweat pants and eat until we can’t walk and then lay on the couch all day with no judgement. Unfortunately, cats should not be allowed to eat this much and as with humans, being overweight can affect overall health.  I’ll discuss cat diabetes and symptoms and how to cope with it. 

Nearly 1% of all cats will develop diabetes mellitus during their lifetime and as with humans, this is similar to Type 2 diabetes.  Overweight cats commonly develop it yet  some breeds are more prone such as the Norwegian Forest cat and lovely Burmese as are senior cats and male cats. 

Symptoms- The most noticeable symptom  is excessive water drinking ( you will notice a huge difference as its much more than usual) accompanied by litter box visits of frequent urination. Typically, diabetic cats can flood the litter box and you may need to change the entire litter daily as there is so much urine.  Noticeable weight loss yet a very strong appetite is another symptom to be aware of along with lethargic behavior and the coat will look unkempt.  ** I had a couple clients tell me that their cats were seen pulling a back leg inwards while walking and their vet said that this was a symptom. Please ask your vet for confirmation as I have not heard of this with the research done.**  

Diagnosis- Having a physical done by your vet with blood work and urine test can confirm diabetes.  The sooner the diagnosis, the better the outcome. 

Treatment-  As with humans, if the cat is pre-diabetic, a weight loss program and even some exercise can do wonders.  Playtime and activity can really work wonders and help drop some pounds.  Changing their diet to a low carb plan will help and your veterinarian can advise you on the best food brands to try for wet and dry foods. 

• Oral Medication- This new treatment is for cats not insulin dependent and a good option. 

 

• Insulin- Given twice a day with food given before the shot, this is a common treatment plan.  Some cats can tolerate once a day shot but your vet will determine the routine. This is a very controlled routine for both you and your cat and you will need to be aware of low blood sugar and to administer the insulin on time. This is crucial for the health and well being of your cat. 

• ** Rock The Cat Spa does NOT accept diabetic cats. Only veterinarian licensed facilities should administer  prescribed medications and are trained for emergencies such as low blood sugar.**  

 

• As with humans, weight loss can reverse diabetes and remission can be achieved. It will take a cat owner with dedication and discussion with your vet so that weight loss is done slowly and safely.  Cats cannot lose weight quickly as it could harm them and should take place over the course of several months and be monitored by your vet. 

Having a diabetic cat can be a change to both you and your cat’s lifestyle.  Monitoring your cats weight can be a real game and life changer.  Keeping your kitty in a healthy weight range is something your cat will thank you for.

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