Along with dogs, cats are the most popular companion animal of mankind. In fact, in many countries around the world cats are even more popular as pets than dogs are. Despite their reputation for aloofness cats are actually affectionate and enchanting pets.

When you adopt a cat you are responsible for ensuring that it has access to the best possible veterinary care. Cats are usually quite robust creatures but they are susceptible to diseases like diabetes.

Diabetes is more common in humans than it is in animals. However, the cause of the disease is the same. Sugar, or glucose, is found in the blood, and the level of blood sugar in the body is controlled by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When the pancreas doesn’t function properly, it fails to produce enough insulin, allowing blood sugar levels to get out of control, causing diabetes.

The symptoms of feline diabetes vary. The most noticeable symptoms are an increase in urination and a notable increase in the amount of water the animal drinks. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, and poor coat condition. If you notice these symptoms it is important that you have your cat examined by a vet as soon as possible.

If the disease is not treated, then the prognosis is very serious. The cat will begin to vomit frequently, will become very lethargic and will eventually become comatose.

The good news is that feline diabetes can be treated. As with the disease in humans, certain lifestyle and dietary changes will be needed, but provided they are, your cat can live a long and normal life.

As with human diabetes sufferers, diet is very important in controlling the disease. Your cat will have to be fed at the same time every day. You will also have to give your cat insulin shots once or twice a day. Your vet will be able to advise you as to the dosage and frequency, and will also show you how to prepare the syringe and give the injection.

Regardless of whether the cat was allowed out in the past, you will have to keep her indoors in the future. This is very important because of the set frequency of meals and insulin shots. If the cat is outdoors and does not have these on time, she may go into shock and even into a coma.

Follow your vets instructions closely when administering insulin. The cat must always be fed first before getting the injection. If the medication is administered before the cat has eaten, the result will be hypoglycemic shock, which is usually fatal.

Over time your vet may reduce the amount and / or frequency of insulin injections, but if your cat has diabetes, she will have to stay on insulin the rest of her life.

Cat names hq.com has brought you this article in the interests of promoting good feline health. For excellent cat names, including thousands of girl cat names, visit our site at www.catnameshq.com.

Bookmark to: