Feline Diabetic Neuropathy

Feline diabetic neuropathy is a complication in cats with feline diabetes, otherwise known as diabetes mellitus. Diabetic neuropathy is a change in the nervous system, and should not be confused with diabetic nephropathy, which refers to changes in the kidney. Neuropathy is one of the most common complications in cats with diabetes, and is usually characterized by trouble walking or problems with their hind legs.

  1. Diabetes Description

    • Diabetes mellitus is the inability of the body to process blood sugar properly. This occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce the proper amounts of the hormone insulin, which is vital to the proper absorption of blood sugar, or glucose. Without insulin, the glucose builds up in the bloodstream and doesn't enter the cells of the body to provide energy. This can cause problems with organs and other systems within the body.

    Cause

    • Diabetic neuropathy occurs only in cats with diabetes mellitus. High levels of blood glucose can cause nerve damage and degeneration, resulting in weakness in the animal's hindquarters. Middle-aged male cats are more likely to develop diabetes mellitus, as are cats who are overweight. Additional health problems, such as pancreas disease and genetics may also contribute to the development of diabetes.

    Symptoms

    • Neuropathy involves the damage of nerves in the hindquarters, which results in deterioration of muscle tissue. This is characterized by a distinctive change in your cat's gait. Cats usually walk on their toes, but those suffering from diabetic neuropathy walk in a more crouched position. Depending upon the severity of the progression, cats will limp or have some limb weakness, while some walk or stand on their hocks, or the protruding joint pointing backward on the animal's back leg.

    Diagnosis

    • Since diabetic neuropathy is only seen in cats with diabetes, your veterinarian will test to confirm the diagnosis. Your veterinarian will take a full medical history of the cat, noting the onset of symptoms as well as the duration and severity of them. A physical exam looks for dehydration, weight changes and enlarged kidneys. Lab tests are performed to measure the levels of glucose found in the blood and urine.

    Treatment

    • Proper treatment of diabetic neuropathy involves the proper control of feline diabetes. Depending upon the severity of your cat's diabetes, insulin injections may be necessary to control glucose levels. Most cats benefit from diets high in fiber, protein and fat and oral medications. Vitamin B12 may reduce and reverse some nerve damage.