About Diabetes in Cats

Diabetes mellitus in cats

If your cat’s been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, it’s easy to feel alone. But, it’s not the case. Many other cat owners are experiencing the same situation and have been able to successfully manage their cat’s diabetes for many years. It’s estimated that between 1 in 100 and 1 in 500 cats develops diabetes mellitus.

What is diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus occurs when a cat has low or inadequate levels of insulin or has an abnormal response to insulin. Insulin is normally produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and is required by the body to transport glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells of the body for energy. Diabetes is more common in middle- to older-aged cats and those that are overweight. Also, neutered male cats are at greater risk than female cats. Certain breeds, such as Siamese cats, experience an above-average incidence of diabetes.

Can my cat be cured?

In general, diabetes cannot be cured. Some cats have “transient diabetes” and can go into remission, but it is more likely that a cat will have diabetes for life. However, if you establish a consistent lifestyle for your cat, including treatment with Vetsulin® (porcine insulin zinc suspension), the veterinary insulin from Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, most likely your cat will be able to lead a happy, healthy life.

Understanding insulin

During digestion, your cat's food is broken down into smaller components for use by the body. Carbohydrates are converted into various sugars, including glucose. Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the blood and provides the body's cells with energy. However, glucose can only enter into most cells if the hormone known as insulin is present. Insulin is produced by specific cells in the pancreas.

In diabetic cats, these cells in the pancreas produce little or no insulin. When this happens, glucose cannot enter into the body's cells and therefore begins to accumulate in the blood, causing the condition known as diabetes mellitus. Simply put, diabetes results from a shortage of insulin.

Insulin fast facts

  • Insulin is a hormone that keeps your cat's blood glucose concentration at a normal level.
  • Insulin is produced by certain cells in the pancreas.
  • In diabetic animals, these cells produce little or no insulin.