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Cats With Diabetes Can Live Well
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by: Russell
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Word Count: 433
Knowledge about feline diabetes is important in order to take special care of your cat. Diabetes is a serious ailment which touches millions of humans, but your cat can also be impacted by it. Cat care and diabetes control go hand in hand to ensure your cat can live an otherwise normal life.
There are two types of feline diabetes that might impact your pet: type 1 is induced by an insufficient production of insulin, and type 2 when the body cannot adequately process the insulin produced. As happens with humans, the illness can affect a cat regardless of age, but it is most typical with cats over six years old. It can present itself in any gender or breed. However, the typical recipients are overweight, older, neutered male cats.
Cats show symptoms of feline diabetes that have some similarities with that of humans. These symptoms should tell informed pet owners and vets of the onset of the disease. As the body becomes incapable of processing glucose, the cat shows symptoms of excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination and may also lose weight. Being sick, loss of appetite, frequent napping and general fatigue often accompany cat diabetes. Also, the cat may suffer from breathing problems as well as loss of skin and coat sheen. Urine and blood sugar screening should to be scheduled when owners see such symptoms in their pets. Since blood sugar may rise temporarily if the cat is frightened or is in any type of stressful situation, it is a good decision to get both the screens done. These two tests will help confirm if your cat actually does have the condition.
While feline diabetes can be controlled in a variety of ways, there is no cure, just as in humans. In obese cats, it can be done through a diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. This diet is not only perfect for blood sugar control, but is also good for weight loss. For managing diabetes in your cat, you could also use effective dietary supplements. Using anti-diabetic drugs is another option to keep blood glucose levels in acceptable range.
Regular monitoring of sugar and insulin levels of an at-risk cat is an owner's critical responsibility. For those who make the decision to personally give their cats insulin injections for their diabetes, care is imperative to avoid an overdose as it can cause fatality. If you keep the diabetes in check, your cat's quality of life will be better, and you can be rewarded with many years of love from your furry friend.
About the Author
Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.
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