Diabetes Mellitus in Cats 🐱💉

Understanding and Managing Diabetes Mellitus in Cats 🐱💉 

Definition of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Diabetes Mellitus in cats is a chronic endocrine disorder characterized by elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood due to a lack of insulin production or the body's inability to use insulin effectively. This condition can lead to symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss, poor appetite, and decreased energy. It is typically treated with insulin injections, changes to the diet and exercise routine, and regular monitoring by a veterinarian.

Synonyms of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

·         Feline Diabetes

·         Canine Diabetes

·         Sugar Diabetes in Cats

·         Cat Diabetes Mellitus

·         Feline DM (DM stands for Diabetes Mellitus)

·         Feline Hyperglycemia

·         Canine Hyperglycemia.

Aetiology of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

The aetiology (cause) of Diabetes Mellitus in cats is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for feline diabetes include:

Obesity: Overweight cats are more likely to develop diabetes, as excess fat cells interfere with insulin function.

Obesity is a common risk factor for the development of Diabetes Mellitus in cats. Overweight cats are more likely to develop diabetes as the excess fat cells interfere with insulin function and increase insulin resistance. Obesity can also impair the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin and lead to glucose intolerance.

Age: Middle-aged and older cats are more prone to developing diabetes.

Age is another risk factor for the development of Diabetes Mellitus in cats. Middle-aged and older cats are more prone to developing diabetes due to the natural decline in the body's ability to produce and use insulin effectively as they age.

Breed: Certain breeds, such as Siamese, Burmese, and Maine Coons, are predisposed to diabetes.

Breed can also be a risk factor for the development of Diabetes Mellitus in cats. Certain breeds, such as Siamese, Burmese, and Maine Coons, are predisposed to developing diabetes. The exact reason for this breed predisposition is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Steroid use: Long-term use of glucocorticoid medications, such as prednisone, can increase the risk of diabetes.

Long-term use of glucocorticoid medications, such as prednisone, can increase the risk of developing Diabetes Mellitus in cats. These medications can affect insulin sensitivity and lead to an increase in blood glucose levels.

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can impair insulin production and increase the risk of diabetes.

Pancreatitis is another risk factor for the development of Diabetes Mellitus in cats. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ responsible for producing insulin. When the pancreas is inflamed, it can impair insulin production and increase the risk of developing diabetes.

In some cases, pancreatitis can be caused by underlying conditions, such as liver disease or high fat diets, and treating these underlying conditions can help prevent or manage pancreatitis.

Endocrine disorders: Other endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, can increase the risk of developing diabetes.

Endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease, can increase the risk of developing Diabetes Mellitus in cats. These disorders can affect insulin sensitivity and production, leading to an increase in blood glucose levels and the development of diabetes.

Epidemiology of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

The epidemiology of Diabetes Mellitus in cats is not well studied, but it is estimated that 1 in every 400 to 600 cats will develop diabetes. Diabetes Mellitus is more common in older cats, with the average age of onset being between 7 and 9 years. Male cats appear to be at a slightly higher risk for developing diabetes compared to female cats.

The prevalence of diabetes in cats has been increasing in recent years, which is believed to be due to a combination of factors, including an increase in the number of older cats, the increase in the prevalence of obesity, and the increased use of glucocorticoid medications.

Pathogenesis of Diabetes Mellitus in cats

The pathogenesis of Diabetes Mellitus in cats can be summarized as follows:

Insulin Deficiency: The pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels effectively. This can be due to pancreatic damage, the development of pancreatic tumors, or a decline in the function of the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

Insulin Resistance: The body is unable to use insulin effectively to regulate blood glucose levels. This can be due to obesity, high fat diets, and the use of glucocorticoid medications.

High Blood Glucose Levels: The combination of insulin deficiency and insulin resistance leads to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream, resulting in high blood glucose levels.

Complications: Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the small blood vessels in the body, leading to the development of complications such as cataracts, nerve damage, and kidney disease.

Management: It is important to work with a veterinarian to develop a comprehensive management plan for cats with diabetes to minimize the risk of complications and ensure proper control of blood glucose levels. This may include changes to the diet, regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, and the use of insulin therapy.

Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

·         The signs and symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus in cats can include:

·         Increased thirst and water consumption

·         Increased urination

·         Increased appetite

·         Weight loss

·         Poor hair coat

·         Weakness and lethargy

·         Recurrent urinary tract infections

·         Vomiting

·         Sweet-smelling breath

·         Cloudiness of the eyes (cataracts)

Additional signs and symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus in cats can include:

·         Dehydration

·         Increased skin infections

·         Decreased vision or blindness

·         Decreased activity or mobility

·         Nerve damage or numbness in the extremities

·         Sweet-smelling urine

·         Increased appetite with a concomitant decrease in weight

·         Constipation or diarrhea

·         Behavioral changes, such as increased sleep or decreased playfulness

·         Slow wound healing.

Lesions of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Diabetes Mellitus in cats can lead to various lesions or physical changes in the body. Some of the most common lesions associated with diabetes in cats include:

Cataracts: Diabetes can cause cloudy or opaque areas in the lens of the eye, leading to vision loss and eventually blindness.

Neuropathy: High blood glucose levels can damage the nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the extremities.

Nephropathy: Diabetes can also damage the kidneys, leading to a decline in kidney function and a higher risk of developing kidney disease.

Retinopathy: High blood glucose levels can also damage the blood vessels in the retina of the eye, leading to vision loss and blindness.

Skin lesions: Diabetes can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections, leading to an increased risk of skin infections and slow healing of wounds.

Other lesions that may be associated with Diabetes Mellitus in cats include:

Periodontal disease: Diabetes can impair the body's ability to fight off oral infections, leading to an increased risk of gum disease and tooth loss.

Gastroparesis: High blood glucose levels can damage the muscles and nerves in the digestive tract, leading to a delay in the movement of food through the digestive system.

Cystitis: Diabetes can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the bladder.

Liver disease: High blood glucose levels can damage the liver, leading to a decline in liver function and an increased risk of liver disease.

Joint disease: Diabetes can increase the risk of joint disease, leading to stiffness, pain, and a decline in mobility.

Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

The diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in cats typically involves a combination of physical examination, laboratory testing, and imaging. Some of the key steps involved in the diagnosis of diabetes in cats include:

Physical examination: The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, looking for signs of increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, and other clinical signs associated with diabetes.

Blood tests: Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry profile, and glucose curve, are used to assess the cat's overall health and measure the blood glucose levels over time.

Urine tests: Urine tests, such as a urine glucose test or urine glucose-to-creatinine ratio, can help to confirm the presence of diabetes by measuring the levels of glucose in the urine.

Imaging: Imaging, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, may be used to evaluate the organs and tissues for any changes or abnormalities that may be indicative of diabetes or related complications.

Innovative approaches of diagnostic procedures of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

In recent years, there have been several innovative approaches to the diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in cats, which have helped to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the diagnostic process. Some of these innovative diagnostic procedures include:

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems: CGM systems are wearable devices that continuously measure the cat's glucose levels and provide real-time data to the veterinarian. This technology allows for closer monitoring of glucose levels and more precise adjustments to insulin doses, leading to improved control of diabetes.

Fructosamine testing: Fructosamine testing measures the amount of glucose that has been bound to proteins in the blood over the past 2-3 weeks. This test provides an average glucose level over a longer time period and can help to determine the overall glucose control of the cat.

HbA1c testing: HbA1c testing measures the amount of glucose that has been bound to hemoglobin over the past 2-3 months. This test provides an average glucose level over an even longer time period and can help to determine the overall glucose control of the cat.

Newer glucose monitoring systems: Advances in technology have led to the development of newer glucose monitoring systems, such as non-invasive glucose monitoring devices and continuous glucose monitoring systems that are designed specifically for use in cats.

Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus in cats typically involves a combination of dietary management, insulin therapy, and regular monitoring of glucose levels. The goal of treatment is to maintain stable glucose levels and prevent the development of complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Dietary management: Feeding a balanced, low-carbohydrate diet can help regulate glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. In some cases, feeding a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet can help regulate glucose levels and reduce the need for insulin.

Insulin therapy: Insulin therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for feline diabetes mellitus. Insulin is given subcutaneously (under the skin) and helps regulate glucose levels by increasing the uptake of glucose into cells and decreasing glucose production by the liver. The type and dose of insulin used will depend on the individual cat and the severity of the disease.

Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of glucose levels, using either blood glucose tests or urine glucose tests, is essential for managing diabetes in cats. This allows for adjustments to insulin therapy as needed and helps prevent the development of complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Other treatments: In some cases, other treatments, such as oral medications or nutritional supplements, may be used in combination with insulin therapy to manage diabetes in cats.

General list of foods that can be included in a diet for a diabetic cat:

High-quality, high-protein cat food: This can help regulate glucose levels and reduce the need for insulin. Wet food is often a better option than dry food, as it typically has a higher protein content and a lower carbohydrate content.

Meat or poultry: This can be a good source of protein, but it's important to choose lean cuts without added fat or skin.

Fish: This can be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can have anti-inflammatory effects.

Eggs: This can be a good source of protein and is easily digestible.

Low-carbohydrate vegetables: This can include leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, and vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and bell peppers.

Cooked, plain meat or poultry broth: This can be a good source of hydration and can help regulate glucose levels.

It's important to avoid feeding table scraps or human food to a diabetic cat, as these foods can disrupt the balance of the diet and lead to glucose level fluctuations. It's also important to avoid feeding low-quality, high-carbohydrate cat food, as this can exacerbate the disease and lead to insulin resistance.

A simple recipe for a homemade meal for a diabetic cat using grams:

1.       Boil 113-142 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breast until cooked through.

2.       Cook 60 grams of green beans and 60 grams of chopped carrots until soft.

3.       Mix the cooked chicken, green beans, and carrots together in a bowl.

4.       Add 1 beaten egg to the mixture and stir to combine.

5.       Serve the mixture to the cat either on its own or mixed with a small amount of high-quality, high-protein cat food.

Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Here are some ways to help prevent and control diabetes mellitus in cats:

Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping a cat at a healthy weight can help prevent the development of diabetes. Feeding a balanced diet and providing plenty of opportunities for physical activity can help ensure a healthy weight.

Feed a balanced diet: A balanced diet, high in protein and low in carbohydrates, can help prevent the development of diabetes in cats. It's also important to feed cats regularly and not allow them to overeat.

Avoid giving cats high-carbohydrate treats: Treats high in sugar and carbohydrates, such as those made with wheat, corn, and potatoes, can increase a cat's risk of developing diabetes. Opt for protein-based treats instead.

Monitor steroid use: Cats taking steroids for a prolonged period of time are at increased risk of developing diabetes. If your cat is taking steroids, be sure to talk to your vet about the potential risks and what steps can be taken to minimize them.

Regular check-ups: Regular visits to the vet for check-ups and routine tests can help diagnose and treat diabetes early, before it becomes more difficult to control.

Manage other health conditions: Other health conditions, such as pancreatitis, can increase the risk of diabetes. If your cat has a pre-existing health condition, be sure to manage it properly to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Dosage determination of insulin and other medication with case study example

The determination of insulin and other medication dosages for cats with diabetes mellitus is a complex process that is best done by a veterinarian. The process involves several factors, including:

Body weight: The cat's body weight is a major factor in determining insulin dosage. Larger cats may require higher doses, while smaller cats may need lower doses.

Glucose levels: The cat's glucose levels will be measured through blood or urine tests, and this information will be used to determine the appropriate insulin dosage.

Overall health: The cat's overall health, including any existing medical conditions, will be considered when determining insulin and other medication dosages.

Response to treatment: The cat's response to treatment will be closely monitored, and the dosages of insulin and other medications will be adjusted as needed.

Here is a case study example:

Case Study: Mr. Ketty, a 10-year-old, 12-pound domestic shorthair cat, has been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. His initial glucose levels were measured at 450 mg/dL. Based on this information, the veterinarian determines the following insulin and medication dosages:

Insulin: Mr. Ketty is started on a low dose of U-40 insulin (2 units) twice daily, subcutaneously.

Glipizide: In addition to insulin, Mr. Kitty is prescribed 5mg of glipizide once daily, orally.

The dosages of insulin and other medications will be closely monitored and adjusted as needed based on Mr. Ketty's glucose levels and response to treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with the veterinarian are necessary to ensure that the treatment plan is working effectively.