The number of cases of feline diabetes reported by veterinarians has increased greatly in recent years. Although the condition is not a death sentence, it is essential that it be treated. If left neglected, it can result in further health problems, amputation and eventually death. There are diabetes treatments available to your pet, most remarkably similar to those for humans. Insulin is the most well-known treatment, but very positive results have come from a perhaps surprising source: cinnamon.
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Accidental Discovery
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Quite by accident, the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that adding just half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day to the diet significantly reduces blood sugar levels in humans. This is exclusive to Type 2, or borderline, diabetes. The spice is so effective that it was found that diabetics eating a slice of cinnamon-spiced apple pie saw no increase in blood sugar levels.
It is believed that one of the chemicals in cinnamon helps insulin work more efficiently. The end result in many cases is a reduction in the amount of insulin prescribed to the patient.
Cats and Cinnamon
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Vets believe that similar results can be realized in pets. Giving just a small quantity of cinnamon to your cat each day should reduce its blood sugar levels. Simply sprinkle a pinch on top of its dry food or mix it in with its canned food. Another possibility is to place a small portion of cinnamon in a diabetic cat's drinking water.
Cinnamon is not toxic, and the worst thing that will happen is your cat won't realize any significant change in its blood sugar levels.
Although cinnamon has produced some very positive results, you should always consult your vet for treatment suggestions. Don't reduce your cat's insulin without first having a discussion with the vet.
Chronic Condition
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There is no cure for diabetes. It is a chronic disease that gets worse over time. Although great strides have been made in treatment options, any cure is likely several years away. Humans with diabetes, however, can lead very long, normal and even strenuous lives---and there is no reason the same cannot be true for your cat.
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