The Diabetic Cat

Butch was a huge, heavily muscled cat.  He didn’t walk, he “lumpfed”.  I’m sure that isn’t a word, but it should be.  He had the sweetest temperament and he was diabetic.  When I first met Butch his owner explained the routine, demonstrated the insulin dosage and asked me if I had any questions. 

“Yes”, I said, “will your cat door be closed while you are away?”

No, the cat door would stay open.  The owner explained that the kitties enjoyed spending time in the yard and they were quite safe. 

“But, what if he is not in when I come?  How will I be able to give him his insulin shot?”

 The owner told me not to worry.  If Butch wasn’t in the house I should just stick my head out the door and call, “Butch, it’s time for your shot.”  Right, I thought, and I envisioned extra time added to every visit as I searched for the cat.

The first visit…no problem.  Butch was in the house, sitting on the rug as if he were waiting for his meds.  The second visit…no Butch.  I looked all over the house, the worry building as each hiding place was empty.  I felt foolish as I stuck out the door and called, “Butch, it’s time for your shot.”  And then I went back to searching for the kitty.  In less than a minute, I heard the cat door swing open and shut.  When I reached the kitchen, Butch was sitting on his rug, waiting for his meds. 

I cared for Butch, on and off,  for several years when his owners would vacation.  I was always surprised that he would come when called, every time.  I was also surprised by how well he lived, and for how long, despite having diabetes.

If your cat is diagnosed with diabetes your first step will be to work with your vet to stabilize his condition by getting his insulin dosage correct.  This may take a little while, but don’t despair; once you get the right dosage the kitty will do well.  It is important to follow the vet’s instructions concerning food and care.  It is equally important to watch for changes in weight and behavior and report them to your vet.  Periodically, the dosage may change.

There are alternative treatments for diabetic pets, but I would not try any of them without the approval of your veterinarian.  Some changes in food or added supplements may help support the treatment your vet prescribes but you must make certain that they are not interfering with the treatment already being given.  If you are interested in natural supplements for diabetes treatment, you may want to read The Natural Cat by Anitra Frasier and Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Richard H. Pitcairn, D.V.M, Ph.D. and Susan Hubble Pitcairn.  Remember, check with your vet before trying any supplements or alternative treatments.