Diabetes, caused by the under-production of insulin, is typically seen in overweight middle-aged and senior cats. As frightening as a diagnosis of feline diabetes can be, there is no need to panic. Diabetes in cats is very manageable and has an excellent prognosis. If caught early enough and treated properly, it can even go into remission. The usual treatment for diabetes, particularly type I diabetes, is insulin therapy. However, if your cat has been diagnosed with type II diabetes, or if you are resistant to using insulin, there are some other options for you to consider.
Things You'll Need
- Cat toys
- Glucometer
- Test strips
- Lancets
Instructions
Feed your cat a low-carbohydrate, high-protein, wet food diet. According to Feline Diabetes.org, this type of diet has been linked to the remission of diabetes in cats.
Regulate your cat's feedings. If possible, divide his food into four feedings at the same approximate times every day. This will help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Maintain a healthy weight in your cat. According to Elizabeth Hodgkins, D.V.M., obesity is inextricably linked to the development of diabetes.
Exercise your cat. Sit down on the floor and play with him every day. Invest in interactive toys such as laser pointers and toys on strings, and toys that he can play with on his own.
Monitor your cat's blood glucose (BG) level. Learning to test your cat's BG at home will remove the stress of constant trips to the veterinarian, reduce costs and allow you to more closely monitor your cat's health.
Consider chromium picolinate, a supplement that has been shown to be effective in treating cats with type II diabetes.
Consider herbal therapy. Supplements like GlucoBalance contain herbs known to support pancreatic health and normal insulin production.
Consider an a-glucosidase inhibitor (acarbose). A Colorado State University Study (2003) determined that acarbose combined with a low-carbohydrate diet could eliminate or significantly reduce the need for insulin.
Consider oral medication. The drug glipizide has been shown to be effective in stimulating insulin production. However, it can also damage the pancreas and liver.