Cats are one of the most popular pets in North
America. They are loving pets, capable of providing you years of
companionship. Like other pets, cats can sometimes get sick. There are
several different types of ailments that cats can get, one of which is
feline diabetes. Feline diabetes is a serious disease, although it can
be treated by a 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.
If you don't get your cat treated for
feline diabetes immediately, the cat will eventually become inactive,
vomit on a regular basis, and eventually fall into a coma. On the other
hand, if you get the diabetes treated in time, the cat will more than
likely lead a normal and healthy life. Keep in mind that treatment
doesn't happen overnight - it takes time and dedication.
Cats
that have feline diabetes will need to be given food at the same time
every day. They should be prevented from going outside as well. If your
cat has diabetes, you'll need to give him insulin shots once or twice
or a day. Once your veterinarian checks your cat, he will tell you how
many shots and how much insulin you need to give your cat.
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.
