How to Comprehensively Care for a Diabetic Senior Cat at Home

As cats age, their health needs change, and one condition that commonly affects older cats is diabetes mellitus. This chronic disease occurs when the body struggles to produce or effectively use insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. While diabetes is manageable, it requires careful attention, particularly in senior cats, to maintain a good quality of life.

Diabetes in cats is more often seen in middle-aged or older felines, with obesity being a significant risk factor. If left untreated, it can cause severe health issues, but with proper care, many diabetic cats can live long, happy lives. This guide offers practical steps for managing diabetes in senior cats and keeping them comfortable.

What is Diabetes in Senior Cats?

Diabetes Mellitus in cats is a metabolic disorder where the body is unable to properly produce or use insulin, a hormone essential for converting glucose into energy. In most cases, Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed in senior cats, where insulin resistance occurs. Insulin resistance means the cells do not respond properly to insulin, resulting in high blood glucose levels.

In senior cats, diabetes can develop slowly, and the symptoms might not be as noticeable at first. Without treatment, diabetes can lead to complications such as ketoacidosis, pancreatitis, and damage to organs like the kidneys and liver. However, with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and monitoring, your diabetic senior cat can live comfortably.

What are the Common Causes of Diabetes in Cats?

• Genetic factors

Certain breeds of cats may be more susceptible to diabetes.

• Obesity

Obese cats require more insulin and are more likely to be insulin-resistant, increasing the risk of developing type II diabetes.

Also Read: My Cat is As Fat As my Dog: What Should I Do?

• Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas may lead to insufficient insulin production.

• Endocrine disorders

Such as hyperthyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism may affect blood glucose control.

• Drug use

Long-term use of medications such as systemic steroids may lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes.

• Persistent infections

Chronic infections such as stomatitis may affect the normal secretion and action of insulin.

• Dietary factors

A diet high in carbohydrates may lead to elevated blood glucose levels in cats, which may lead to diabetes in the long term. 

What are the Early Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats?

• Excessive drinking and urination

Cats may exhibit unusual thirst and frequent urination behavior.

• Changes in appetite

Despite an increased appetite, the cat may lose weight.

• Decreased vigor

Cats may become more lethargic and silent and not as active as usual.

• Abnormal walking posture

There may be a dragging of the heels on the ground, which is due to muscle weakness caused by neuropathy.

• Difficulty with weight management

Even with an increased appetite, the cat may struggle to maintain weight or experience weight loss.

These symptoms may develop gradually and might not be as obvious as in human diabetes. If your cat has any of these symptoms, it's crucial to take it to the vet promptly for early diagnosis and treatment.

Related:  Signs of Diabetes in Cats: Causes, Treatment, Prevention, and Daily Care

How Does Diabetes Affect Your Cat's Digestive System?

Pancreatic Dysfunction

Diabetes is caused by insufficient insulin production due to pancreatic beta cell dysfunction, which directly affects the normal function of the pancreas. The pancreas is not only responsible for the secretion of insulin, but also secretes digestive enzymes that help in the digestion of food. Insufficient insulin secretion may result in the secretion and activity of digestive enzymes being affected, which in turn affects the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. 

Abnormal gastrointestinal motility

Diabetes mellitus may lead to disorders of gastrointestinal motility, which may be manifested by symptoms such as loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation or diarrhea. Abnormal insulin levels may interfere with the nerve and muscle function of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in slowed or irregular bowel movements.

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Nutritional Absorption Problems

Due to insufficient secretion of digestive enzymes and abnormal gastrointestinal motility, cats may not be able to effectively absorb nutrients from food, leading to malnutrition and weight loss.

Complicated Diseases

Diabetic cats are prone to complications of pancreatitis due to the metabolic disorders in the diabetic state that may induce an inflammatory response in the pancreas. Pancreatitis can further impair the function of the pancreas, affecting the production of digestive enzymes and exacerbating digestive problems. 

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

Abnormal insulin levels can disrupt normal gastrointestinal function, causing symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, or indigestion.

Therefore, diabetes has multiple negative effects on a cat's digestive system, and proper treatment and dietary management are needed to mitigate these effects and maintain your cat's health.

How to Treat Diabetes in Cats?

• Insulin Treatment

This is the main treatment for diabetes in cats and involves injecting your cat with the right dose of insulin under the guidance of your veterinarian. 

• Dietary management  

A proper diet is essential for controlling blood glucose levels. Feeding a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Your veterinarian may recommend specialized diabetic cat food or guide you on how to prepare meals at home.

1. Feeding Schedule: Regular, controlled feeding times help prevent spikes in blood sugar.
2. Avoiding Treats: Diabetic cats should avoid treats high in sugars or carbohydrates.

• Weight Management

For overweight cats, weight loss is an important part of treatment as obesity increases insulin resistance.

• Regular Monitoring

Adjust the treatment program by regularly testing blood glucose levels to ensure that blood glucose is controlled within the desired range.

• Exercise

In some cases, oral medications like metformin may be prescribed to help control blood sugar. However, insulin injections remain the primary treatment.

• Medication

In some cases, oral hypoglycemic drugs such as metformin may be used, but this requires veterinary guidance as there may be side effects with long-term use.

• Treating complications

Diabetic cats can develop complications such as ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition. If your cat shows signs of severe illness, such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, seek immediate veterinary care.

Treating feline diabetes requires close veterinary supervision and patient management by the owner to ensure that the cat's blood sugar is effectively controlled and the risk of complications is minimized. 

Equipment You’ll Need for Home Care

To properly manage your diabetic cat at home, you'll need the following equipment:

• Blood Glucose Meter: A specialized meter, like the AlphaTRAK2, is used for measuring your cat's blood sugar.
• Insulin Syringe and Needle: To administer insulin injections.
• Blood Collection Needles: For obtaining blood samples from your cat's ear or tail.
• Cotton Balls: To clean the injection site and wounds.
• Medical Waste Container: To safely dispose of used needles and syringes.
• Record Book: To track blood glucose levels, insulin doses, and any changes in your cat’s health.

If you're new to monitoring blood glucose, ask your veterinarian for a demonstration to ensure you're comfortable with the process.

How Should Diabetic Cats Have Daily Blood Sugar Monitoring?

Prepare tools and environment

1. Make sure you have a blood glucose meter that is the right size for your cat, as well as enough test strips and blood collection needles.
2. Use a flashlight to help clearly see the blood vessels in your cat's ears for accurate blood collection.
3. If your cat's ears are cold and blood circulation is poor, use warm water to warm the ears to improve circulation. 

Monitoring Process

1. Blood glucose testing is performed at a fixed time to establish a pattern of blood glucose changes.
2. Measure blood glucose before and after giving insulin to your cat to adjust the insulin dose.
3. Record each blood glucose measurement, as well as your cat's diet, activity, and any factors that may affect blood glucose. 

Precautions

• Avoid performing blood glucose tests when your cat is stressed or upset, as this may affect the accuracy of the results.
• Communicate regularly with your veterinarian to adjust the treatment plan based on your cat's blood glucose monitoring results.
• Consider using a continuous glucose monitoring system for more comprehensive glucose data.
• By taking these steps, you can better manage your cat's diabetes and help them maintain stable blood sugar levels. Remember to remain patient and gentle throughout the process to minimize your cat's discomfort and stress.

FAQs

What is the best food to feed a diabetic cat?

The best food to feed a diabetic cat should be a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet. Here are some specific suggestions.

Low Carbohydrate Food: Diabetic cats should be fed a diet that avoids too much starch, sugar and high sugar fruits. Low-carb foods can help control blood sugar levels. For example, some cat food brands are designed specifically for diabetic cats and are low in carbohydrates to help manage blood sugar. 

High-protein foods: protein helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, so a diabetic cat's diet should be based on high-protein foods. This can include animal protein sources such as chicken and fish. 

Canned or Raw Bone Meat: Dry cat food may not meet a diabetic cat's need for a low-carb diet, while canned food or raw bone meat diets are often lower in carbohydrates and may be more suitable for diabetic cats. 

Before changing a diabetic cat's diet, be sure to consult with your veterinarian to develop an individualised diet plan for your cat's specific situation. Also, diabetes management is a delicate balance between diet and insulin levels, so don't change insulin doses or diets without talking to your vet. 

Is a cat with diabetes in pain?

Cats with diabetes may experience pain, especially if the condition is uncontrolled or complications arise. Diabetic cats may develop neuropathy, resulting in weakness or pain in the limbs that can interfere with their normal activities. A high blood sugar environment is conducive to bacterial growth and reproduction, and diabetic cats are more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract infections, which can also lead to pain.

Also Read: How Can I Treat My Cats UTI At Home

What not to give a cat with diabetes?

• Foods high in sugar

Diabetic cats should avoid foods high in sugar, such as sweets, cakes and sweet drinks, which can cause a sharp rise in blood sugar. 

• Foods high in carbohydrates

Dry cat food is usually high in carbohydrates, which can lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Therefore, diabetic cats' diets should limit carbohydrate intake, especially simple carbohydrates such as corn and wheat. 

• High Fat Foods

Although fat is a necessary component of a cat's diet, in diabetic cats, high-fat foods may lead to weight gain, which can exacerbate insulin resistance. Therefore, foods with moderate fat content should be chosen. 

• Dairy products

Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, and the lactose in dairy products may cause diarrhoea and other digestive problems. In diabetic cats, this may affect blood sugar control. 

Conclusion

Caring for a diabetic senior cat requires commitment, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can provide your feline companion with a comfortable and fulfilling life. Regular veterinary visits, consistent monitoring of blood glucose, a proper diet, and insulin treatment will help you manage your cat’s diabetes and prevent complications. With your dedication and love, your cat can thrive despite their diabetes.

Related: Understanding Diabetes in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Management