Use of Keto-Diastix in Feline Diabetes Management

If your feline has diabetes, you are probably aware of the care that needs to be taken to ensure your pet's glucose and ketone levels are normal, including monitoring blood glucose levels with a blood test. Another method in which to keep track of these levels is the use of Keto-Diastix. Keto-Diastix allow you to monitor your cat's glucose and ketone levels at home.

  1. Using Keto Diastix to Monitor Glucose and Ketone Levels

    • Keto-Diastix measures the amount of glucose in an animal's urine. Glucose is present in the urine when there is an excess amount in the blood stream, and the kidneys cannot effectively filter the glucose. When the kidneys reach their threshold and are unable to process any more glucose, the glucose will spill into the urine.

      Keto-Diastix will also measure the amount of ketones in your cat's urine. Ketones are formed when the body is breaking down fat and are present in the urine of diabetic cats. If there are too many ketones, it can cause a condition called ketoacidosis, in which the blood becomes too acidic. This is an emergency situation that needs to be treated immediately by a veterinarian.

    Collecting a Sample

    • Diabetic cat owners need to collect a sample of their feline's urine in order to use Keto-Diastix to measure the glucose and ketone levels. To collect the urine, leave your kitty in a room that contains nonporous flooring, such as tile, and is void of carpeting or other absorbent surfaces. Leave the litter box out of the room and wait for your cat to urinate on the floor. Leaving your kitty in a bathroom may not be the most effective environment, as she may urinate in the tub or sink and the sample may go down the drain. You can also fill your cat's box with plastic litter that doesn't absorb the urine. Most veterinarians carry this type of litter. Collect the urine with a syringe or dropper and place the sample on the Keto-Diastix test strip.

    Determining the Results

    • After you have applied the sample to the strip, the test area will change colors based on the results. You can then reference the color chart that comes with the Keto-Diastix testing strips to determine how much glucose is in your cat's urine. Keto-Diastix should be used in conjunction with blood glucose tests if there is any concern about the glucose level. Keto-Diastix cannot be used to diagnose the exact amount of glucose in your cat's system. In addition, Keto-Diastix cannot detect if a cat's blood glucose levels are too low, therefore, a blood sample should be taken if this is a concern.

    Frequency of Use

    • The frequency in which you use Keto-Diastix depends upon your cat. Cats who are having problems becoming regulated on their insulin should have their glucose and ketone levels checked often, while those who are well-regulated may only need to have their urine checked when the owner is concerned or curious about the levels. Cats who are having issues with their glucose and ketone levels may need to be checked as often as a few times a day.