Managing Diabetes

How do I take care of my cat with diabetes?

Although there is no cure for diabetes, it can be successfully managed with the help of your veterinarian.

Daily insulin injections are usually required to restore your pet’s insulin level and control blood glucose levels. Many cat owners are anxious about giving their pet injections at first, but it can be simpler than you think. With help from your veterinarian, you can quickly learn how to handle the dosing routine with little stress for you or your cat.

Diet also plays a vital role in helping to keep your cat’s diabetes regulated. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet that is best for the needs of your pet. A high-quality, consistent source of protein is an essential part of any diabetic diet. High-protein, low-carbohydrate foods are currently recommended for diabetic cats because they provide the extra energy cats need to get through their active days, without the extra carbs that can turn into excess sugar. It is important to feed your pet based on its ideal body weight. Consistent timing and size of meals is also very important.

Regular veterinary checkups are necessary for monitoring potential changes in your pet’s condition. Careful monitoring helps to successfully manage this disease over time.

Managing your cat’s diabetes will require some effort, but the rewards are well worth it. When your cat’s diabetes is under control he can have normal thirst, appetite, urination, and activity levels. Their weight is generally stable and they are less likely to develop complications. With proper care, it is also possible to reduce or eliminate insulin treatment in a cat.