The Treatment And Prevention Of Feline Diabetes

A veterinarian who discusses the treatment and prevention of feline diabetes says that feline diabetes is a genuine problem and owners need to be aware of the relevant facts. In many of my posts I have mentioned the signs to look out for. Remember these are just initial signs. Actual diagnosis will be carried out by not only looking at these signs, but also by physical examination findings, laboratory test results, and the constant presence of abnormally high levels of sugar in the blood and urine.  I have also mentioned that abnormally high levels of sugar when tested at the surgery does not necessarily imply feline diabetes, as this condition can also be brought on by stress. If diabetes is diagnosed then treatment is necessary. Failure to treat can lead to a number of conditions.

The treatment and prevention of feline diabetes:-

“In case of absence of treatment, a cat’s lifespan is shortened. Ketoacidosis can develop, indicated by loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, dehydration, and abnormalities in breathing. A cat with diabetes can have unhealthy skin and coat, liver disease and secondary bacterial infections. Other various damaging conditions can also develop, causing the cat and the owner discomfort. “

Once diabetes has been diagnosed the treatment depends upon the cat and the severity of the disease.

“Cats with ketoacidosis need immediate intensive care, which consists of fluid therapy and insulin injections. Cats that are not very ill should be given insulin injections or oral medications and their diet should be changed.

Treatment for each diabetic cat is different, and each cat also has a different response.

“Cats with ketoacidosis need immediate intensive care, which consists of fluid therapy and insulin injections. Cats that are not very ill should be given insulin injections or oral medications and their diet should be changed. Treatment for each diabetic cat is different, and each cat also has a different response. A few can be treated with oral medications, whereas others need insulin injections. In some cases, diabetes can be reversed, while in others, treatment has to be continued for life. Constant medication, consistent feeding and a stable, stress-free lifestyle are usually the best forms of treatment.”

The veterinarian then states that diet change is an important step that must be taken. In my opinion this is as important as any other part of the treatment. And in fact it could be argued even more important because change of diet can eventually lead to a reversal of feline diabetes. Also in my opinion, diet is one of the primary factors that leads to feline diabetes.

“In addition to medication, an important step in treating diabetes is to alter your cat’s diet. Weight loss is important, and a safe weight-loss program should be adopted to enable your cat to lose it gradually. A high-fiber, high-complex carbohydrate diet is best for weight loss and to help regulate blood sugar levels.”

I’m not quite sure I agree with him when he says a high-complex carbohydrate diet is best for weight loss. Surely the diet for weight loss is a natural diet that the cat would eat if in the wild and this means a diet of mainly protein and low carbohydrates.

So for the treatment and prevention of feline diabetes we have so far  discussed treatments however the orthodox veterinarian profession is less than forthcoming with ways to prevent feline diabetes. I believe that feline diabetes is a result fo leading a western lifestyle. In other words eating processed adulterated foods and living a couch potato life. So the easiest way to help prevent feline diabetes is to change the cats diet to one that is as natural as possible and make sure it gets plenty of exercise.