Insulin Reaction in a Diabetic Cat

Most cats with diabetes will need insulin to survive, says PetEducation.com, but their insulin needs can vary from day to day and from month to month. This inconstancy makes regulation challenging, and low blood sugar is the most frequent problem.
  1. Identification

    • In cats with diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, which regulates the body's blood sugar, or the body is not efficiently using the insulin, says the Cat Hospital of Chicago. Insulin reactions occur when a cat has too much insulin in its system, causing a serious condition called hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.

    Effects

    • Early signs of low blood sugar may include lethargy, clumsiness, weakness and depression, says PetEducation.com. If the condition goes unchecked, stupor, coma, seizures and death will follow.

    Causes

    • Many factors contribute to insulin reaction, says PetEducation. Among them are improper dosage, variation in appetite and exercise, and metabolic changes.

    Treatment

    • If cats showing signs of insulin reaction can eat, says PetEducation.com, feed the customary food. If not, try to get the cat to lick some corn syrup. If that doesn't work, rub some corn syrup on the cat's gums and call the veterinarian.

    Warning

    • In a veterinary mystery, some cats go into remission without warning, creating a dangerous situation when insulin is still being given. Regular visits to the veterinary office for blood sugar monitoring are essential to protect diabetic cats' health.