Cats Can Have Diabetes Too

By Debbie Foster

Knowledge about feline diabetes is important in order to take special care of your cat. Diabetes is a serious complaint which touches millions of humans, but your cat can also be affected by it. Cat care and diabetes control go hand in hand to ensure your cat can live an otherwise normal life.

There are two types of feline diabetes that might impact your pet: type 1 is induced by an insufficient production of insulin, and type 2 is characterized by the inability of the cat's body to process the insulin effectively. As happens with humans, the condition can impact a cat regardless of age, but it is most typical with cats over six years old. It can develop in any gender or breed. However, the typical patients are overweight, older, neutered male cats.

The early signs and symptoms of feline diabetes are very similar to what one expects in humans, which vets or pet owners can easily spot. These symptoms will tell informed pet owners and veterinarians of the beginning of the disease. As the body becomes incapable of processing glucose, the cat shows symptoms of excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination and may also lose weight. Other symptoms of feline diabetes include vomiting, loss of appetite and overall weakness and lethargy. In addition, the cat may have bad skin and coat condition as well as respiratory issues. Urine and blood sugar screening ought to be scheduled when owners see such symptoms in their pets. Since blood sugar may rise temporarily if the cat is frightened or is in any type of stressful situation, it is a good decision to get both the screens done. These two tests will help affirm if your cat actually does have the disease.

Feline diabetes, like the human form, has no cure yet but it can be controlled through a number of means. In overweight cats, the condition can be regulated through a diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. This diet is not only perfect for blood sugar control, but is also good for weight loss. Dietary supplements are also available to help diabetic felines deal with their condition. Using anti-diabetic drugs is another option to keep blood glucose levels in standard range.

Regular monitoring of sugar and insulin levels of an at-risk cat is an owner's critical responsibility. For those who decide to personally give their cats insulin injections for their condition, care is imperative to avoid an overdose as it can cause a fatal condition. If you keep the diabetes in check, your cat's quality of life will be better, and you can have many years of healthy companionship.

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You'll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://www.petbedsunlimited.com.