Diabetes in cats is diagnosed by the presence of excessive glucose in the blood. Blood glucose is monitored through the cat's life in order to maintain the proper therapeutic level of insulin in the blood.
History
Cats generally contract type 2, or non-insulin dependent diabetes, even though treatment involves the administration of injectable insulin. This generally occurs later in life due to obesity, poor diet and lack of exercise.
Normal Blood Sugar Levels
The normal fasting blood glucose range for a healthy, non-diabetic cat is between 70 and 120 mg/dL. Diabetic cats will have blood glucose levels well over 200 mg/dL.
Proper Treatment Blood Sugar Goals
Target levels of glucose in a diabetic cat are 100 mg/dL and 200 mg/dL. Anything under 100 mg/dL will indicate that the cat is becoming hypoglycemic, or having too low blood sugar, and may slip into a diabetic coma if not reversed. Blood sugar levels above 200 mg/dL indicate that the cat is not being regulated and will need an insulin dosage adjustment.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Cats will usually exhibit outward symptoms of diabetes when their blood glucose levels begin to remain above 200 mg/dL. They will begin to drink more water and urinate more.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Symptoms of low blood sugar are disorientation, staggering, listlessness, trouble with coordination and coma. Hypoglycemia is a medical emergency which should be treated immediately by smearing Karo syrup on the gums.
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