My cat has diabetes

[addicted_to_WDW]

Mo had been losing weight and eating and drinking constantly, so I took him to the vet this morning. He had very high blood sugar (460, it should be under 200) but otherwise is in good health. I'm waiting for the results of the rest of his blood work to come back, then he has to go back to the vet to become regulated.

It looks like vacations are a thing of the past, as I'm going to have to be home to give him his injections once or twice per day.

I'm really depressed.

 

[Cindy B]

My parents cat had diabetes for almost 10 years before he recently died (he was 19!)


They took the cat with them when they went somewhere... in the RV, in the pickup, or had a neighbor "trained" on how to take care of him.


He was fine, and didn't feel the needles at all.

 

[catsrule]

Sorry to hear about Mo. Maybe a family member or friend could learn to give them too.

 

[Pugsley]

My cat has had diabetes for about four years now. It has had a big impact on my life since I live alone and have to be there to give him shots twice a day. I’ve always liked having cats because they’re so low maintenance, but this disease put an end to that! I used to be able to go away overnight or for weekends and leave them alone, but not any more. Now I have to think twice before I even go out to dinner. I had a neighbor who could do the shots, but she moved away and now it costs me a fortune to have someone come in and do it. Anyway, as Cindy said, the good news is that giving the shots is not difficult or painful and they can still live a long life. And if you have other people who can help it’s not much of a problem at all.

 

[MerryPoppins]

My cat was diabetic for years! She started taking shots once a day around 4 years old and needed them for about 6 years. Then, she suddenly didn't need them. The vet said that cats sometimes get over being diabetic. Isn't that weird?

Anyway, she used to call me in the morning and jump up on a chair to get her shot. I think she knew it made her feel better. The shot-giving thing sounds hard, but it isn't a big deal. They learn to adjust to it quickly. Annie never acted like it hurt her. I think you could teach a friend or neighbor to give her the shots, once she gets used to getting them, so you could still go on vacation.

We were "lucky". We also had a dog that had epilepsy. We're an interesting bunch! Annie went on to live a long and healthy life. We finally had her put to sleep at about 14 or 15 years.

 

[lisajl]

This is very odd. I work for a vet and it seems we see more and more cat with diabetes. I wonder what all the factors are in this...

Good luck with your kitty. Giving the shots is no big deal, it will get easier the more you do it.

I have a cat that is an epileptic, don't have to give her shots, but have to give her pills. Not even close to the same thing, but you know, you love your pet, you do what is best for it.

Hope the blood results come back ok.
Lisajl

 

[Liz]

I'm really sorry. I don't think I realized cats could get that. I'm sure it seems overwhelming right now but hopefully once you get in a routine it won't be so bad.

((((((((HUGS)))))))

 

[December99]

Sorry to hear about your cats illness but I hope things go well!!!!

 

[Toby'sFriend]

oh Poor Mo! I'm so sorry.

I'm glad that they could find out what was wrong and treat it however. I hope he feels better soon.

 

[Cindy B]

Heres how my dad gave Fuzzy his needles... He would feed him, and while he was eating, he (my dad) would lay on his stomach and give him the shot on his back leg.


It was quick! My mom would do it differently I think she put the cat in her lap.


He lived with it for a very long time. It was funny (humorous) to see the diabetic supplies come in the mail addressed to the cat. , it always looked funny on the mailing labels.... Fuzzy______

They found the insulin/needles were cheaper buying bulk either mail order/internet than off the vet.

 

[grinningghost]

Poor kitty. I hope he's feeling better soon.

 

[addicted_to_WDW]

Thanks everyone.

I know I'll get used to this and I hope Mo will. He's a cranky old guy!