Insulin Shock in Cats

Overweight cats are at risk for diabetes.

Cats suffering from insulin shock, also referred to as hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, can exhibit signs of ill health such as depression and tremors. Insulin shock can also be fatal, so it's important to know the facts.

Feline Diabetes

Also known as diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes, diabetes is the same in cats as it is in humans. It is a disorder of the pancreas; it does not deliver enough insulin. The cat becomes anxious or suffers from seizures or coma. Insulin shock occurs when too much insulin is present in the blood.

Causes of Insulin Shock

One of the causes of insulin shock in cats is human error. Cats on an injection regime being given a shot at regular intervals are kept in a state of homeostasis with those injections. If the person delivering the injection gives too much insulin in one dose, or gives injections too close together, the cat may go into insulin shock.

Emergency Measures

People with cats under treatment for diabetes should keep a blood glucose testing kit on hand and know how to use it. If you suspect insulin shock, you can test and treat the cat on the spot. Emergency treatment for suspected insulin shock includes rubbing corn syrup on the cat's gums or delivering it orally with a syringe. Honey, syrup or simple sugar water also work well.

References

• Net Pets: Living with Feline Diabetes
• Feline Diabetes: Cat Diabetes for Beginners
• Feline Diabetes: Emergency Treatment