Feline Diabetes
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.
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