What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats? What Should Cats Have Blood Sugar?
Symptoms of diabetes in cats and what should be the blood sugar level of cats is one of the most important issues that owners of tiny paws should know. There is a belief that diabetes is a health problem specific to humans. However, this problem can also be seen chronically in cats. It can be a little difficult to recognize because the symptoms are usually hidden. However, after this article, you will be able to understand if this happens and take them to the vet for early diagnosis. We wish you a pleasant reading.
What is Diabetes in Cats?
In humans, diabetes means that the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. This is also the general definition of diabetes in cats. Insufficient insulin causes health problems in tiny paws. There are 3 stages: Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3.
TYPE 1 Diabetes in Cats
Insulin secretion is not sufficient. It is more common in small physically built animals. Early diagnosis is very important in the treatment process. In case of early diagnosis, it is possible to treat it depending on insulin. In case of diabetes in cats, a diet program is prepared in addition to insulin treatment. There are specially produced foods for this.
TYPE 2 Diabetes in Cats
It is a type of diabetes that is resistant to insulin. It is generally seen in overweight cats. Those at risk of obesity are considered to be in the high risk group. Diet is very important in this type of disease. Veterinarians organize a certain nutrition program for the cat to lose weight. In addition, insulin-dependent treatment may also be preferred.
TYPE 3 Diabetes in Cats
Just like in humans, cats also have hidden diabetes and it is called TYPE 3. It’s the most difficult type to recognize the symptoms. According to research, it is thought to be caused by pancreatic cancer at a rate of 25%. It is very important to treat it. Otherwise, it can trigger bigger health problems.
What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats?
Diabetes is not only a problem in humans. Cats can often get diabetes too. Because in some cases, the pancreas of our furry friends may not produce enough insulin or may not produce at all. So what are the symptoms? Here are the details…
- Excessive drinking: The most important symptom of diabetes is excessive water intake in cats. If your cat consumes an unusual amount of water, we strongly recommend that you contact a veterinarian.
- Losing weight despite eating a lot: The most important symptom of many diseases in cats is known as loss of appetite. However, when it comes to diabetes in cats, our furry friends consume more food. But they start to lose weight compared to their consumption.
- Feeling of Insatiability: Cats consume excessive food when they have diabetes. The frequency of consumption times increases. If your cat consumes food every half hour or an hour, we recommend that you pay attention to this issue.
- Excessive Urine: The point to be considered here is that the amount of urine is excessive. Otherwise, it should not be confused with frequent urination.
The symptoms mentioned above are generally early symptoms. If these are missed, the symptoms may become more severe in the following period. In addition to problems such as vomiting, depression, kidney failure, it can eventually lead to loss of vision. For this reason, diabetes symptoms in cats should be taken into consideration.
What should blood sugar levels be in cats?
Cats need to have a certain level of blood sugar. Above or below these levels puts our furry friend in the risk group. Elevated sugar in cats is as risky as it is troublesome. According to veterinarians, the sugar value should be between 63 and 132 mg/dl. This range means normal value. If it goes up or down, it is absolutely necessary to contact the veterinarian.
Sugar measurement has an important place in the diagnosis of diabetes in cats. With glucometers, measurements can be made easily without hurting them. The right thing is to have these measurements done at certain times of the year. This will pave the way for early diagnosis.
Why Cats Shouldn’t Eat Candy
As is well known, sugar is one of the most harmful foods for cats. Not only because it triggers obesity, but also dental health and diabetes problems. In progressive cases, visual impairments are also experienced. It should not be forgotten that cats do not taste sugar. For this reason, do not cause evil while trying to do them a favor and do not feed them sweets.
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