Cats reign supreme when it comes to being among the most popular pets in North America. While providing years of companionship, cats are also one of the most loving of pets. Regrettably, from time to time cats like all other animals can become ill. Feline deabetes is one of many different types of ailments that can affect your cat. A very serious disease, feline diabetes can be controlled when treated by your veterinarian.
Diabetes is more common with humans than with cats or other animals. The cause of diabetes is actually quite simple. Sugar, or glucose, is found in the blood. The level of blood sugar in the body or the animal is kept under control by hormone insulin, which the pancreas produces. When the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, diabetes is to blame.
The symptoms of feline diabetes will vary. The most common symptoms include an increase in urine and an increase in thirst. Other symptoms of feline diabetes include a loss of appetite, weight loss, and a poor coat. An increase in thirst is easy to detect, as you can easily notice the water dish empty throughout the day.
Untreated, feline diabetes may cause your cat to become inactive, you may notice frequent vomiting or at worst, your cat may slip into coma. The chances of your cat living a long and healthy life are greatly enhanced if you seek treatment immediately. Although treatment will take time and dedication, the results will be a much happier and healthier cat.
Feeding your cat at regular times everyday is usually recommended for cats diagnosed with feline diabetes. Your vet may also tell you to try to keep your cat indoors if possible. Daily adminitering of insulin shots may be required as part of the treatment as well. Check with your vet to find out if your cat needs to take insulin, how much and how often.
Before you give your cat his insulin shot, you should always make sure that he has some food first. If he hasn't eaten and you give him a shot anyway, he could end up with a hypoglycemic shock. This can also occur from too much insulin as well. A hypo can be really dangerous, and should be avoided at all costs. If your cat gets a hypoglycemic shock and you aren't around, he may end up dying.
If you have to give insulin shots to your cat due to feline diabetes, you should always keep a watchful eye on him after you have administered the shot. After your cat has been on insulin for a period of time, your vet may reduce the amount of insulin. Even though he may have to stay on insulin the rest of his life, he will lead an otherwise healthy life.
