Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Treatment options and goals for diabetic cats
By Martin, G & Rand, J·Published in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·2000·Companion Animal Sciences, School of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, The University of Queensland, Australia 4072, Australia·View original on Crossref →
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Original publication title: Current Understanding of Feline Diabetes: Part 2, Treatment
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A diabetic cat needs careful management to control symptoms like excessive thirst and urination without causing low blood sugar. The main treatment is insulin, which is usually effective for most diabetic cats. For those that still have some insulin-producing ability, an oral medication called glipizide can help. It's also important to manage the cat's weight, whether they are underweight or overweight, to improve their overall health. With the right treatment plan, many diabetic cats can lead happy, healthy lives.
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Abstract
When treating diabetic cats, the primary aim is to control clinical signs without causing clinical hypoglycaemia. Secondary goals are to maximise the chances of attaining diabetic remission and to minimise the risk of complications due to chronic hyperglycaemia. A treatment plan that is convenient for the owner is important for compliance. Underweight or overweight diabetic cats should be fed with the aim of normalising bodyweight. Current evidence suggests that non-obese diabetic cats can be fed ad libitum. The oral hypoglycaemic drug glipizide is well established as a treatment for about a third of diabetic cats, which have residual beta cell function. Preliminary studies on other oral agents such as vanadium salts, metformin, and troglitazone indicate a potential use in some diabetic cats. Insulin treatment remains the treatment of choice for the majority of diabetic cats. Choice of insulin, dose rates and monitoring of treatment are discussed.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Crossref: https://doi.org/10.1053/jfms.2000.0057