Cat Diabetes & Euthanasia

Euthanasia is often referred to as "putting an animal down" or "putting an animal to sleep." According to Pet Place, "It is the deliberate act of ending life, and pet owners that must make this decision often feel anxiety or even guilt." Some owners with pets who have advanced diabetes may consider euthanasia. Feline diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus is a disease caused by a lack of the hormone insulin or an inadequate response to insulin. When a cat does not produce insulin or cannot make use of it normally, blood sugar levels raise. This may result in a condition called hyperglycemia. If hyperglycemia is left untreated, serious health problems may occur.

  1. Feline Diabetes

    • Feline diabetes may be caused as a result of genetics, certain medications, abnormal protein deposits or certain diseases such as pancreatic disease. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, "If a diabetic cat is not treated, he can develop kidney disease, neurological disorders or other metabolic diseases." You will need to go over symptoms with your veterinarian. A physical exam and blood work will be performed to properly diagnose diabetes. Treatment options may include medication, a high fiber diet, regular insulin injections or hospitalization.

    Feline Diabetes Symptoms

    • Symptoms of diabetes may include weight loss, a change in appetite, an increase in water consumption and urination, lethargy, dehydration, or urinary tract infections. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

    Euthanasia

    • Euthanasia is usually performed by a veterinarian or animal shelter worker. The owner is asked to sign a consent for euthanasia form. Often the owner is given the option to be present during the procedure. Generally, the cat is given an injection of a barbiturate anesthetic. Within seconds of the injection the heart will stop and the animal will die pain-free and peacefully. In addition, the unconscious cat may lose bladder and bowel control.

    When the Time is Right

    • Animals with chronic diseases such as cancer are often given medication to help control and manage the disease in an effort to prolong its life. Your veterinarian will often recommend euthanasia if the cat no longer has a good quality of life; however, owners know their cats best and are usually able to tell if their quality of life is not good. Euthanasia may be considered if the cat is no longer able to eat, drink, sleep or breathe comfortably. Euthanasia may also be considered if it no longer acts interested in his environment or if it appears to be in pain.

    Feline Diabetes and Euthanasia

    • With proper treatment your cat can lead a full and long life, which may not result in euthanasia; however, he will require close observation. People will often decide to euthanize due to the cost and commitment of treating diabetes. In addition, untreated diabetes will lead to serious health problems, which may result in the humane option of euthanasia. Pawprints and Purrs notes, "A cat who has untreated diabetes will--sooner or later--become depressed, vomit, breathe more rapidly than normal, stop passing any urine at all, and will eventually go into a coma and die. If he gets too much insulin or doesn't eat enough food, his blood sugar could dip to dangerously low levels (hypoglycemic shock), causing seizure and even death."