Diabetes Mellitus is a hormonal ailment that influences the
metabolism of glucose. It is divided into two types, I and II. Type I
is characterized by a decreased production of the hormone insulin from
pancreas whereas Type II, uncommon in cats, occurs owing to the
inability of cells of the body to uptake and consume glucose. At times
there is a third type, Transient Diabetes, seen in cats in which the
ailment comes and goes.
A disease of middle-aged and older
felines, Diabetes occurs more commonly in male cats. Risk factors
include obesity, diet, genetics and damage to pancreas. Clinical
manifestations are increased thirst, diet and urination, weight loss,
skin and hair changes and liver and kidney disease. There is lethargy,
weakness of hind legs and wobbly gait. Often these, alongside urination
outside the litter box, are the first signs that the cat owner may
notice of this insidious illness.
Once the diagnosis is reached
through analysis of urinary and blood glucose levels, treatment is
initiated. In the majority of cases it involves a regimen of insulin
injections. In Type II disease, oral hypoglycemic agents are given at
times. Though this is rare and it is often easier for owners to inject
their cats than feed them pills. Even though there is no cure for
Diabetes, prompt and appropriate treatment ensures that the diseased
cats live a normal and healthy life.
Diabetic cats are usually
advised a prescription diet. It is important to feed the cats this at
regular times through the day alongside the insulin dosage. It is
equally significant to ensure that the cats get regular exercise. For
if any of the three elements - insulin dose, dietary intake and
exercise - are out of sync with each other, the glucose balance of the
animal may be altered. If all the three aspects are maintained under
control though, the cat can be expected to live a long and happy life.
The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on diabetes in cats. |
