Wasbek (dpa/tmn) – Diabetes is not only insidious for humans, the metabolic disease can also have devastating consequences for cats. In addition, it often goes unnoticed for a long time. The symptoms are not very obvious: more thirst, more hunger and weight loss. “We have carried out studies and according to them, around one in 200 cats is affected by diabetes,” says Prof. Stijn Niessen from the Royal Veterinary College in London, who is researching this topic. Older and overweight animals are often affected, usually purely indoor cats.
The classic cat patient suffers from type 2 diabetes. The body no longer responds adequately to insulin. But it needs insulin to process sugar. Without insulin, the sugar stays in the blood, resulting in a deficiency in the organs. In the search for a replacement for the lost energy source, the body is forced to use other substances such as protein or fat.
Without treatment, the disease progresses and the animals can become very emaciated, fall into a coma and ultimately die. However, if treated early, diabetes can actually be cured in about half of the patients.
How is diabetes diagnosed in cats?
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A veterinarian can diagnose diabetes through a blood and urine test. As with humans, sick cats must be given insulin. But since no one knows how much insulin the body still produces, it is difficult to find the right dosage. “You have to examine the course of the blood sugar level after insulin has been administered throughout the day,” says veterinarian Michael Frahm from the small animal clinic in Wasbek (Schleswig-Holstein).
The cats can stay at the vet for the examination, where their blood sugar levels are measured every two hours. Those who feel confident can do these tests themselves at home – provided the animal is well behaved. The cat is pricked in the ear and the corresponding value is then read with a hand-held measuring device.
Alternatively, as with people suffering from diabetes, a sensor can be temporarily attached to the cat’s skin to continuously measure the sugar level. “Many cats don’t mind at all,” says Stijn Niessen. The vet can then check on his computer how the blood sugar level has developed over the course of the day and adjust the medication accordingly.
Treatment: Dietary changes and medication
Treatment also requires patience. The diet should be changed to a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet in order to reduce weight. Shops and vets sell appropriate cat food. However, you should not rely on the word “diet” on the food packaging. A close look at the ingredients and a conversation with the vet can help. It is questionable whether the cat will be enthusiastic about the diet food, as animals usually have their own ideas about food too.
The animal also needs medication. For a long time, the only option was to inject insulin twice a day, preferably at the same time each day, to keep the blood sugar level as constant as possible. “This is a big challenge for many cat owners,” says Frahm. “They don’t trust themselves to give the injections.” In addition, giving the medication twice a day means you are very tied to a certain time. If you are on vacation, you have to find someone who can give the animal the injection regularly.
Simpler therapy: syrup instead of injection
Since this year, a much simpler treatment option has been available on the market, namely oral administration. These are so-called SGLT-2 inhibitors, which are also used to treat people with diabetes. The liquid is mixed into the animals’ food once a day. “It’s sweet, most cats like the taste,” says the expert. Alternatively, it can be injected directly into the animals’ mouths.
In contrast to treatment with insulin injections, the new medication does not pose the risk of hyperglycemia. Fewer check-ups are necessary: excess glucose is simply excreted in the urine. However, this new medication is not the first choice for all animals. If the disease is already too advanced, it should not be used, says Frahm.
More exercise for indoor cats
The causes of diabetes in cats have not yet been researched. “As with humans, it is assumed that there is a genetic predisposition in connection with a corresponding lifestyle,” says veterinarian Frahm. Pet owners should ensure that their cats do not become too fat. This is especially an issue for indoor cats, who usually move much less than those who go outside. Playing or hiding treats can bring more excitement into the lives of house cats.
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What are the key signs to look for if I suspect my cat has diabetes?
Title: Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Meta Description: Did you know that diabetes can affect cats too? Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for feline diabetes, including dietary changes and medication.
Keywords: feline diabetes, diabetes in cats, cat diabetes symptoms, diabetes diagnosis in cats, cat diabetes treatment, insulin injections for cats, SGLT-2 inhibitors for cats
Introduction:
Diabetes, a metabolic disease often associated with humans, can also have devastating consequences for our feline friends. Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed for a long time, as the symptoms are not very obvious. According to Prof. Stijn Niessen from the Royal Veterinary College in London, around one in 200 cats is affected by diabetes. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for feline diabetes.
Symptoms of Feline Diabetes:
The symptoms of feline diabetes are subtle and can be easily overlooked. Common signs include:
Increased thirst and hunger
Weight loss
Increased urination
These symptoms can be attributed to other health issues, making it essential to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your cat is showing any of these signs.
Diagnosis of Feline Diabetes:
Diagnosing feline diabetes involves a blood and urine test. The veterinarian will measure the blood sugar level and urine glucose to determine if your cat has diabetes. In addition to these tests, the veterinarian may also perform a physical examination and take a complete medical history to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.
Treatment of Feline Diabetes:
Treatment of feline diabetes typically involves a combination of dietary changes and medication.
Dietary Changes:
Cats with diabetes require a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet to reduce weight and manage blood sugar levels. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dietary plan for your cat.
Medication:
For a long time, insulin injections were the only option for managing blood sugar levels in cats with diabetes. However, this can be a significant challenge for many cat owners, requiring twice-daily injections at the same time each day. Fortunately, a new treatment option has become available – oral administration of SGLT-2 inhibitors. These medications can be mixed into the cat’s food once a day and are a more convenient and stress-free option for both cat and owner.
SGLT-2 Inhibitors for Cats:
SGLT-2 inhibitors, also used to treat human diabetes, have been approved for use in cats since this year. These medications work by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, allowing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine. They are a simpler and more convenient treatment option, with fewer check-ups required.
Conclusion:
Feline diabetes is a manageable condition if diagnosed and treated early. It is essential to monitor your cat’s health and consult a veterinarian if you suspect any symptoms of diabetes. With the right treatment plan, including dietary changes and medication, your cat can lead a happy and healthy life.
FAQs:
How common is feline diabetes?
Around one in 200 cats is affected by diabetes.
What are the symptoms of feline diabetes?
Increased thirst and hunger, weight loss, and increased urination.
How is feline diabetes diagnosed?
Through a blood and urine test.
* What are the treatment options for feline diabetes?
Dietary changes and medication, including insulin injections and SGLT-2 inhibitors.
By understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for feline diabetes, you can provide the best possible care for your cat and help them live a healthy and happy life.
What are the early signs of diabetes in cats?
Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Diabetes is a common metabolic disorder that affects not only humans but also cats. Feline diabetes, also known as Diabetes Mellitus, can have devastating consequences if left untreated, and its symptoms are often subtle, making it challenging to diagnose. According to Professor Stijn Niessen from the Royal Veterinary College in London, around one in 200 cats is affected by diabetes, with older and overweight animals being more susceptible.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats
The classic symptoms of diabetes in cats are:
Increased thirst and hunger
Weight loss
These symptoms are not unique to diabetes and can be indicative of other health issues, making it essential to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
How is Diabetes Diagnosed in Cats?
A veterinarian can diagnose diabetes through a combination of blood and urine tests. The tests measure the levels of glucose in the blood and urine to determine if they are within a normal range.
Treatment: Dietary Changes and Medication
Treatment for diabetes in cats involves a multi-faceted approach that includes dietary changes and medication.
Dietary Changes
A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet can help reduce weight and manage blood sugar levels. It is essential to choose a diet that is specifically formulated for cats with diabetes, as regular cat food can exacerbate the condition. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat.
Medication
Traditionally, insulin injections were the only option for managing blood sugar levels in cats. However, this required injecting insulin twice a day, which can be challenging for cat owners. Fortunately, a newer, simpler treatment option is now available – oral administration of SGLT-2 inhibitors. These medications work by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and increasing the amount of glucose excreted in the urine.
Simpler Therapy: Syrup Instead of Injection
Oral administration of SGLT-2 inhibitors provides a more convenient and stress-free treatment option for cats and their owners. This medication comes in a syrup form, which is easier to administer than insulin injections.
More Exercise for Indoor Cats
Indoor cats are more prone to obesity, which is a significant risk factor for diabetes. Encouraging more exercise through playtime and providing climbing structures can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
What to Look for if You Suspect Your Cat Has Diabetes
If you suspect your cat has diabetes, look out for the following signs:
Increased thirst and hunger
Weight loss
Increased urination
Vom