Your cat can become diabetic, just like a human. Two common methods for treating feline diabetes include PZI insulin and chromium picolinate. These treatments work to control your cat's blood sugar and help him live a longer, happier life. Taking the time to learn about these treatments and how they work can assist you in making the right choice for your pet.
Effects
PZI insulin works to control blood sugar levels much like human insulin injections, but it is derived from beef. Beef insulin is the most similar type on the market to cat insulin and works in animals that don't respond to the more common human product. Chromium picolinate can help cats with insulin resistance reduce their blood sugar levels. Both treatments can be administered on their own or in conjunction with one another.
Benefits
Both chromium picolinate and PZI can help your cat feel better and avoid the negative effects of low blood sugar. Cats with appropriate treatment for their diabetes and a good quality diabetic diet can live out their full life-spans, with some cats reaching extreme old age. Insulin and chromium treatments may give better results than diet alone.
Time Frame
PZI is usually administered twice per day, in the dosage recommended by your vet. Chromium picolinate may be administered as a dietary supplement, or as part of a diabetic diet for your cat. It's usually given when you feed your pet. Keep feedings to a regular schedule dictated by your vet, though---cat blood sugar levels can fluctuate a lot if feeding is delayed.
Potential
Use of chromium picolinate and PZI together can be a big help for some cats. The chromium works to reduce a cat's insulin requirements and improve insulin sensitivity. That means that you may be able to administer PZI less often, or in smaller doses, as your cat becomes more able to use his own insulin. Consult your vet before trying any treatment method, however.
Considerations
Not all cats can use the same diabetes treatment. Pets with emergency level diabetes or any known problems with their kidneys should not use chromium picolinate, for instance. PZI is not readily available from all veterinarians, and some cats may respond as well to human insulin. Take some time to consider all your options before choosing a diabetes treatment plan for your cat.
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