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Tips for Diabetic Cat Care

As diabetes is such a common health condition, most people know at least a few things about it. However, many are surprised that their pets can become afflicted with the disease. Many cats go undiagnosed for long periods of time because their owners aren’t aware of the common diabetic cat care symptoms.

The most common signs are weight loss, poor haircoat, and increased urination and drinking. It is also quite common for cats suffering from diabetes to have difficulty when it comes to urinating. If the urinary tract becomes infected, there may also be blood present in the urine.

These symptoms certainly aren’t specific to diabetes. However, they do suggest that you should take your cat to the veterinarian to see exactly what’s going on. Felines that have already been diagnosed will need to be provided with special diabetic cat care.

Since cats with diabetes won’t be able to use insulin properly, you will need to provide yours with an insulin shot on a daily basis. The thought of using a needle on your cat every day can be a bit intimidating at first. With your vet’s help though, both you and your pet will get used to the routine.

When caring for a diabetic cat, it is important to maintain a proper weight. Doing so will make the condition slightly easier to manage, especially since it’s so difficult already. Helping your cat lose weight will help his body make use of insulin that it produces. A special diet suggested by your veterinarian will help.

It should go without saying that cats with diabetes will need to be fed a proper diet, whether they’re overweight or not. Dry foods typically have an excessive amount of carbohydrates which aren’t particularly good for feline diabetics. Your vet may suggest that you switch to a more suitable brand of cat food.

The specific time that you provide food is also important when it comes to diabetic cat care. Cats need to eat in conjunction with their insulin injections. If not, then their blood sugar may get too low.

Diabetes that isn’t managed properly can wreak havoc on your cat’s body. Therefore, it is vital that you pay close attention when caring for diabetic cats. Watch how much water and food he is eating. Take notice of any changes in weight. Also, monitor the litter box to see if there are any changes in urine or stool output.

Testing blood sugar levels is another important facet of diabetic cat care. This can be done with ease at home if you purchase a suitable monitor and test strips. If you don’t test it at home, then you will need to take your cat to the veterinarian on a regular basis.

Diabetes is a serious health condition for cats. However, it doesn’t have to lower your cat’s quality of life as long as you manage the disease properly. Stay in constant contact with your veterinarian if you need to.