Types & Causes

• In the body, glucose is converted into energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate, carbon dioxide and water. To regulate the levels of glucose to a manageable level, the cat's pancreas produces insulin. Diabetes mellitus results if the pancreas stops manufacturing insulin in the correct amounts or tissue cells become resistant to the action of insulin. An inflammation of the pancreas, called pancreatitis, can lead to diabetes, as can immune mediated disease and predisposition of the animal. Type 1 diabetes is considered insulin dependent, while Type 2 is non-insulin dependent and can often be treated through diet and drug therapy. Cats, however, are most often diagnosed with the Type 1 variety.
  
  

Symptoms

• The symptoms of diabetes mellitus in cats include excessive drinking and eating, excessive urination, sudden cataract formation, and dehydration. The cat may lose weight even though it has a good appetite and is drinking more than usual. It may become dehydrated and show increased scratching and licking at its skin because of itching, also called pruritus. Some cats may show a weakness in their hind legs and start walking on their hocks. In extreme cases, the cat may become depressed and weak, with fast breathing and an odor of acetone on the breath and they may have uncontrollable vomiting.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment of diabetic cats usually consists of insulin injections twice a day plus a radically modified diet. The type and dosage of such therapy depends on the progression of the disease and will need to be determined by a licensed veterinarian through a blood glucose test. Periodic tests may need to be taken until glucose levels in the blood even out. Combining insulin therapy with a high-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet will also reduce blood glucose levels and decrease some of the symptoms.
  
  

Significance

• Diabetes mellitus most often occurs in middle-aged or older cats, with male animals that have been overweight or had an attack of pancreatitis most susceptible. It can be misdiagnosed without a blood test and can lead to liver, kidney and heart failure without treatment.
  
  

Considerations

• There are several points to consider when undertaking treatment for a diabetic cat. First, insulin injections will need to be given at home at a regular time daily, usually after meals. The patient's diet will need to be strictly regulated so that it eats the same amount at the same time daily. Diabetic cats may develop an early case of cataracts and go blind. If the patient develops a "hot spot" from scratching itchy, dehydrated skin, the wound is often difficult to heal. Excessive urination may cause the cat to miss the littler box and urinate inappropriately. Blood glucose tests will need to be taken on a regular basis and the lifespan of diabetic animals is often severely shortened.