Feline Diabetes Glucose Levels

Feline diabetes is a disease that will require the constant monitoring of glucose levels in the blood. If the glucose levels are too high, the insulin dose will have to be increased, so that the sugar in the blood stream is properly assimilated. Should the glucose levels be lower than normal, the vet will have to lower the insulin dose. You should measure your pet’s blood glucose regularly or look for symptoms of low or high glucose levels.

Feline Diabetes and Glucose Levels

When the cat has increased levels of glucose in the blood (hypeglycemia), which cannot be properly assimilated by the body, the cat will be diagnosed with diabetes. The treatment for the cat will consist of insulin injections, which will be administered on a daily basis and will keep the glucose levels at a normal level. The glucose levels considered normal in felines are from 80 to 120 mg/dl. There may be slight variations according to the cat’s age and breed. Your vet will establish the normal glucose levels.

If the insulin dose is suited for your diabetic pet, it will lower the glucose levels and maintain them at a normal level. However, the glucose levels should be monitored, as it may happen that the cat needs a change in the insulin dose. If your cat is diabetic, you should get a blood glucose measuring device for your convenience and measure the glucose levels at 2 different times during the day, to get accurate results.

Symptoms of Low Glucose Levels

The glucose levels in a cat with diabetes may drop if he receives an overdose of insulin (e.g. you give a double dose). This may also happen if the insulin dose prescribed by the vet is too high. You can measure your dog’s blood glucose or watch out for symptoms of low blood sugar:

  • Low body temperature, which may cause trembling
  • Paleness of gums and other mucous membranes
  • Sudden fainting
  • General state of weakness
  • Weak pulse
  • Seizures and coma, only in severe cases

The glucose levels may also drop if your pet has lost a significant amount of blood or has skipped a meal.

Symptoms of High Glucose Levels

The cat may have higher glucose levels after meals, so when you measure the glucose levels, make sure to do so at least 2 hours after a meal.

High glucose levels may signal that the insulin dose your cat receives is too low and needs to be adjusted. A cat with hypoglycemia will display a few symptoms:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Agitation
  • Irregular pulse
  • The cat will eat more, but may lose weight
  • Skin problems such as chin acne

These symptoms are similar to the initial symptoms displayed prior to detecting diabetes in your pet. Your vet will increase the insulin dose and will monitor the cat’s behavior. Typically, after 1 week of insulin shots, your cat will show signs of improvement and you should measure the blood glucose levels to see if the dose is sufficient.

 

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