Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
As a cat parent, there’s nothing more distressing than seeing your beloved pet suffer from a severe health issue like diabetes in cats. Managing a diabetic cat's condition can be challenging, but nothing prepares you for the life-threatening complication known as diabetic ketoacidosis in cats (DKA).
If you've ever noticed your diabetic cat vomiting, not eating, or becoming lethargic, you know how terrifying it can be. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage your cat’s diabetes effectively and prevent DKA from developing.
Let’s dive into what DKA is, how to recognize the signs, and what you can do to keep your diabetic cat safe.
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Cats?
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurs when a diabetic cat’s body doesn’t have enough insulin to break down glucose (sugar) properly. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, causing dangerously high blood sugar levels. When the body can’t access glucose for energy, it starts breaking down fat for fuel, creating byproducts called ketones. Unfortunately, ketones are toxic in large amounts and can lead to a dangerous imbalance in the body’s pH levels, known as acidosis.
DKA is an emergency situation requiring immediate veterinary care. Left untreated, it can result in coma or even death. It’s most commonly seen in cats whose diabetes is poorly managed or undiagnosed, making early detection of cat diabetes and proper treatment critical.
Common Symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Cats
It’s essential to recognize the early signs of DKA to get your diabetic cat the treatment they need quickly. Some of the common symptoms include:
Lethargy or weakness: Your cat may seem unusually tired, and reluctant to move or engage in their normal activities.
Loss of appetite: Cats with DKA often stop eating, which can exacerbate the problem by driving their blood sugar even higher.
Vomiting: Gastrointestinal distress is common as the body tries to cope with the toxin build-up.
Excessive thirst and urination: Just like diabetes in cats, DKA can cause your cat to drink and urinate more frequently due to high glucose levels.
Labored breathing: As DKA progresses, your cat may struggle to breathe as their body tries to correct the imbalance in its blood pH levels.
Sweet-smelling breath: The presence of ketones can cause a distinctive sweet, fruity odor on your cat’s breath.
These signs should not be ignored. If you suspect DKA, get your cat to a veterinarian immediately.
Why Does Diabetic Ketoacidosis Occur in Cats?
DKA typically occurs when cat diabetes is not well-regulated. The most common causes include:
Undiagnosed or Untreated Diabetes: Cats that haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes are more prone to DKA because their blood sugar has likely been unregulated for an extended period.
Inadequate Insulin Therapy: If your cat isn’t receiving the right dose of insulin, or if their insulin treatment has lapsed, it can lead to the development of DKA.
Infection or Other Illness: Sometimes, even well-controlled diabetic cats can develop DKA when faced with an infection, such as a urinary tract infection or pancreatitis, which stresses the body.
Stress or Trauma: Situations that place stress on your cat’s system, such as surgery or injury, can also trigger DKA.
Understanding the underlying causes can help you prevent DKA from occurring. Ensuring your cat’s diabetes in cats is well-regulated and managing any secondary health issues is key to preventing a crisis.
How is Diabetic Ketoacidosis Treated?
Once DKA develops, immediate veterinary care is required. Treatment usually involves a stay in the hospital, where the vet will focus on:
Rehydration: Intravenous fluids are administered to restore your cat’s hydration and balance electrolytes.
Insulin Therapy: The vet will administer insulin to bring your cat’s blood sugar levels down to a safe range.
Correcting Acidosis: In severe cases, additional treatments may be necessary to correct the acid-base balance in your cat’s body.
Addressing Underlying Causes: Any infections or illnesses contributing to the DKA will need to be treated as well. Antibiotics may be used if an infection is present.
The length of hospitalization varies depending on the severity of the condition. Once stabilized, your cat will still need long-term management for diabetes in cats, including insulin therapy, regular vet check-ups, and possibly dietary changes.
Managing Cat Diabetes to Prevent DKA
The good news is that diabetic ketoacidosis in cats can often be prevented with proper diabetes management. Here are key strategies to keep your cat’s diabetes under control and reduce the risk of DKA:
1. Regular Monitoring of Blood Sugar
Check your cat’s blood glucose levels at home using a pet glucose monitor. Consistent monitoring helps you stay on top of any fluctuations in blood sugar and adjust insulin as needed. Always follow your vet’s instructions on how often to check glucose levels.
2. Administering Insulin Correctly
Ensure your cat receives their insulin at the correct dose and time each day. Even small lapses in insulin therapy can lead to dangerously high blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of DKA.
3. A Diabetes-Friendly Diet
Work with your vet to choose the right food for your diabetic cat. A diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help stabilize your cat’s blood sugar. If your cat is overweight, gradual weight loss may also improve their insulin sensitivity. Always make dietary changes slowly to avoid upsetting your cat’s system.
4. Regular Vet Check-ups
Routine vet visits are crucial for managing cat diabetes. Your vet will monitor your cat’s overall health, adjust their insulin dosage if needed, and screen for any secondary health problems that could lead to.
5. Stress Management
Keep your cat’s environment as stress-free as possible. Changes in routine, introducing new pets, or even moving homes can cause stress that may disrupt their diabetes management.
For a comprehensive, check our previous blog on how to care for a diabetic senior cat at home.
Diabetic Cat Treats: How to Choose the Best
When managing diabetes in cats, one of the common concerns for pet owners is whether their diabetic cat can still enjoy treats. The good news is that, yes, you can still offer your cat treats, but with a few important guidelines. You need to ensure that the treats don't spike blood sugar levels or interfere with insulin therapy.
What to Look for in Diabetic Cat Treats
The goal is to find treats that are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, as these nutrients help keep blood sugar stable. Avoid commercial treats loaded with grains, sugars, or other high-carb fillers. Instead, look for:
Single-ingredient treats like freeze-dried meat (chicken, turkey, or fish).
Low-carb commercial treats specifically designed for diabetic cats.
Homemade options like small pieces of cooked, unseasoned meat or liver.
How Often Can You Give Treats?
Moderation is key when it comes to treats. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake to avoid disrupting their meal plan and insulin regulation. It's also a good idea to give treats alongside their meals to help avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar.
Have Questions on How to Care for your Diabetic Cat?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your cat's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your cat's unique needs, explain multiple treatment options, and provide thorough guidance on the best treament plan.
Better vet care with most comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
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