Feline Insulin: A Comprehensive Guide for Cat Owners

Cats, like humans, can develop diabetes mellitus, a condition that affects how the body uses glucose (sugar) for energy. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells for energy use. In cats with diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or the body does not use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Understanding Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes is a common condition, affecting an estimated 1 in 200 cats. It is more common in older cats (over 7 years old), obese cats, and certain breeds, such as the Burmese, Siamese, and Russian Blue.

Symptoms of Feline Diabetes

The signs and symptoms of feline diabetes can include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Diagnosis of Feline Diabetes

Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and ask about your cat's symptoms and medical history. They will likely recommend blood and urine tests to confirm the diagnosis of diabetes and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment of Feline Diabetes

The primary treatment for feline diabetes is insulin injections. Insulin helps to lower blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells for energy use. Insulin therapy is typically lifelong and requires careful monitoring by you and your veterinarian.

Types of Feline Insulin

There are several types of insulin available for cats, each with its own duration of action and dosing frequency. Your veterinarian will recommend the best type of insulin for your cat based on their individual needs.

Dosing and Administration of Feline Insulin

Insulin is typically administered twice a day, subcutaneously (under the skin). The dose of insulin will vary depending on your cat's size, body weight, and blood sugar levels. It is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully when administering insulin.

Monitoring Your Cat's Blood Sugar Levels

It is important to monitor your cat's blood sugar levels regularly to ensure that the insulin therapy is effective and to adjust the dose as needed. Your veterinarian will recommend a blood glucose monitoring schedule based on your cat's individual needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are several common mistakes that cat owners make when managing their cat's diabetes:

• Not giving enough insulin: This can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious complications.
• Giving too much insulin: This can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can also be dangerous.
• Not monitoring blood sugar levels regularly: This can make it difficult to adjust the insulin dose as needed.
• Changing the type or dose of insulin without consulting your veterinarian: This can lead to unstable blood sugar levels.
• Skipping insulin injections: This can lead to high blood sugar levels and serious complications.

How to Properly Administer Feline Insulin

Step 1: Gather your supplies. You will need:

• Insulin syringe
• Insulin vial
• Alcohol wipes
• Treats

Step 2: Prepare the insulin syringe. Draw up the correct dose of insulin into the syringe.

Step 3: Clean the injection site. Wipe the injection site with an alcohol wipe to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 4: Pinch the skin. Pinch a loose fold of skin on the back of your cat's neck or shoulder.

Step 5: Insert the needle. Insert the needle into the pinched skin at a 45-degree angle.

Step 6: Inject the insulin. Slowly depress the plunger on the syringe to inject the insulin.

Step 7: Remove the needle. Once the insulin has been injected, remove the needle from the skin.

Step 8: Give your cat a treat. Give your cat a treat to reward them for their cooperation.

Pros and Cons of Feline Insulin Therapy

Pros:

• Insulin therapy is the most effective way to manage feline diabetes.
• It can help to lower blood sugar levels and prevent serious complications.
• It can improve your cat's quality of life.

Cons:

• Insulin therapy is a lifelong commitment.
• It requires careful monitoring and regular veterinary visits.
• It can be expensive.

Call to Action

If you think your cat may have diabetes, it is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your cat's chances of living a long and healthy life.

Additional Resources

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): https://www.avma.org/
• American Diabetes Association (ADA): https://www.diabetes.org/
• Cornell Feline Health Center: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center

Tables

Table 1: Symptoms of Feline Diabetes

Table 2: Types of Feline Insulin

Table 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Managing Feline Diabetes