When you have a cat, it becomes your responsibility to make sure that your cat can live a normal and fulfilled life. It may be unfortunate for domestic cats to have their own version of diabetes, also a severe affliction among humans. It is also necessary for cat owners to know how diabetes affects cats. And how they can help make their pets' lives better by learning how to provide better care.
Two types of feline diabetes may affect your pet cats. Type 1 diabetes is caused by lacking production of insulin. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is characterized by the cat's body's inability to process insulin more effectively. Diabetes can strike cats at any age but is more likely to affect older cats.
There is also secondary feline diabetes caused by drugs or some sicknesses that may damage the natural processing of insulin in the cat's body.
Cats can also display symptoms that may tell vets or cat owners that the cats might have diabetes. These symptoms are similar to what humans with diabetes develop as the disease progresses. Cats may show frequent thirst and urination. With the body's inability to process or handle glucose, cats with diabetes may also experience weight loss.
Other symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, and general weakness. Cats with diabetes may also have poor skin and coat conditions as well as difficulty breathing.
When a domestic cat displays the symptoms mentioned above, it might be wise for cat owners to have their cats' sugar levels tested in their blood and urine. Both tests might be required because cats under stress may experience a temporary spike in their blood sugar levels. Both tests will help decide if your cat really has diabetes.
Just like in humans, the feline version of diabetes also has no cure yet available. Instead, feline diabetes can be controlled through several means. For cats, this can be done with diet and weight control. A high fiber and complex carbohydrates diet would be ideal for diabetic cats, especially obese ones.
This type of diet is maintained to control the cat's weight and control its blood sugar levels. Oral medications exist to help your diabetic pet cat maintain a suitable blood sugar level.
Оwners need to carefully monitor their cat's glucose and insulin levels. Cat owners who give their diabetic cats insulin injections should always care to avoid an overdose. An overdose of insulin can be fatal for cats. Some dietary supplements can be used to help diabetic cats deal with their situation.
Cat care and diabetes always go hand in hand to ensure that your pet cat can lead an everyday life. Providing the proper care for diabetic pet cats can make sure that pet cat owners can enjoy the company of their pets for as long as possible.
The genuine concern shared through the care given to diabetic pet cats can show the love that pet owners may have for their dear animal companions.