Comparing Type I & II Diabetes in Cats: Key Differences

Section 1: Causes of Feline Diabetes

The primary causes of feline diabetes include obesity, infections, concurrent diseases, medicationinduced factors, pancreatitis, and possibly genetic predispositions.

Section 2: Clinical Symptoms of Feline Diabetes

Diabetic symptoms in cats are quite similar to those in dogs, predominantly characterized by increased thirst and urination, and weight loss. Additional symptoms may include lethargy, aloofness from their owners, poor grooming, dry and coarse fur, lack of luster, reduced range of motion, and weakness in the hind legs. Normal blood glucose levels in cats typically range from 80 to 120 mg/dl. However, during stress, a cat's blood sugar may spike to 300400 mg/dl, which does not necessarily indicate diabetes. Moreover, if a cat has high blood sugar but normal levels of glycosylated hemoglobin and fructosamine, it is not indicative of diabetes. Beyond clinical symptoms, diabetic cats may exhibit persistent hyperglycemia and glycosuria, especially when fasting.

Section 3: Treatment Methods for Feline Diabetes

1. For cats with Type 2 diabetes, where blood sugar levels are elevated but without the presence of ketones in the urine and the cat remains relatively healthy, oral hypoglycemic medications can be administered. Commonly used drugs include glipizide (dosage: oral, 2.5mg per dose, twice daily) and glimepiride (dosage: oral, 0.625mg per dose, once daily), for a continuous treatment period of two weeks. If the cat does not experience side effects or hypoglycemic symptoms, the treatment can be continued. If the cat's blood sugar remains uncontrolled and symptoms like ketones appear, insulin therapy should be considered.

2. Insulin injection therapy is recommended in the early stages of feline diabetes. Opt for glargine insulin or insulin zinc protamine for initial treatment. The dosage is usually 12 units, administered twice daily. Additionally, switch the cat to a veterinaryprescribed diabetes diet. If the cat's blood sugar remains high, it may suggest that insulin is not effective or the cat is insulinresistant. Cats are particularly sensitive to insulin, so the initial goal after starting insulin therapy is to keep the blood sugar levels between 90270 mg/dl. Then, continue with longterm insulin injections, adjusting the dosage as needed based on the cat's condition. Insulin dosing must be precise, as both excessive and insufficient amounts can be harmful. Overdosage can lead to hypoglycemia in cats, which can cause seizures and, in severe cases, even death.

This summary of feline diabetes treatment methods by Oxygen Pet Doctor aims to provide pet owners with a basic understanding of the available treatments. It is hoped that this knowledge will help owners better manage their cat's diet and be better prepared to handle their pet's condition.