How to Prevent Diabetes in Your Cat

Just as diabetes is a growing problem for people, it is also a growing problem for cats, which are becoming increasingly more obese. Feline diabetes is a disease in which a cat is no longer able to regulate glucose levels, which can lead to seizures, muscular problems and even death. However, you can prevent diabetes in your cat, or at least mitigate its effects, if you take an active role in your cat's health.

Instructions

1. Monitor your cat's weight on a regular basis so you can respond quickly if he gains weight. Overweight cats are much more likely to develop diabetes than cats that are at their ideal weight.

2. Feed your cat a reduced-calorie diet if she's already overweight, and feed her on a schedule rather than whenever she asks for food. Just like humans, cats may eat to combat boredom or to create positive emotions, so she may not be as hungry as she seems.

3. Encourage your cat to exercise so he stays fit, as a lack of exercise is another situation that may lead to diabetes. If your cat isn't naturally playful, you may need to try out a variety of cat toys to encourage exercise. Some cats are more likely to become active if you give them catnip.

4. Discuss your cat's medications with your veterinarian. Some medications, especially progesterone and steroid based medications, can have the side effect of creating diabetes in a cat. You may be able to counteract this side effect with additional medications or supplements.

5. Get your cat regular veterinary check-ups. Though this won't necessarily prevent your cat from diabetes, it will let you catch diabetes at its earliest stage. Your vet can then develop a treatment plan that can return your cat to health.

6. Take your cat to the vet if she develops any of the symptoms of diabetes, including weight loss, dehydration, excessive urination, excessive thirst, weakness, a loss of appetite, vomiting, breathing problems, or skin or fur conditions. Again, catching diabetes as early as possible will allow your vet to create a plan to effectively treat it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have problems reducing your cat's weight on your own, discuss weight management plans with your veterinarian.