Diabetes is a disease in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar properly. It affects both dogs and cats - most often middle-aged and older, and more frequently those with excess weight. Untreated it leads to dangerous complications, but a well-managed diabetic pet can live a long, comfortable life.
Symptoms to look out for
- increased thirst and frequent urination,
- a big appetite with simultaneous weight loss,
- lethargy and weakness,
- in cats, sometimes weakness of the hind legs.
We confirm the diagnosis with blood and urine tests; sometimes a day-long glucose profile is needed.
What treatment involves
For most patients the basis of treatment is insulin given by injection, alongside a consistent, well-balanced diet at fixed times and regular weight and glucose monitoring. Daily injections sound daunting, but nearly all owners master them quickly - the needles are tiny and well tolerated. Insulin must be stored in the fridge (never frozen) and mixed gently, not shaken.
Routine is everything
The key to stable sugar levels is repetition: the same feeding and injection times, comparable meal portions, and notes on appetite, thirst and weight between visits. Never change the dose on your own, and never "make up" a missed dose without asking the vet.
Emergencies - hypoglycaemia
The most dangerous complication is blood sugar dropping too low - for example after an accidental double dose or a skipped meal. Signs include weakness, trembling, disorientation and, in extreme cases, seizures or collapse. If the pet is conscious, give something sweet and call the vet; if unconscious, seek help immediately.
With good management many cats even achieve remission. We diagnose and manage diabetes within our internal medicine service at MultiVet in Lutynia near Wrocław.