Reply #32: I've had 2 diabetic cats. [View All]

[China_cat]

The one developed pancreatic cancer (at age 15) and had to be put down last year. He'd been diabetic for almost 5 years. His brother is now 16 and diabetic for over 5 years.

The first week with insulin is the hardest...for you to get used to giving the shots and him to get used to starting to feel better. After that, it adds about 2 minutes a day to your routine. Feed the cat and while his face is in his food, you shoot him.

It also doesn't have to cost a mint. Yes, your startup costs are going to be a bit high depending on which insulin. But most cats are very low dose and the insulin lasts a LONG time. (Moe has been doing now for 6 months on the same vial) You can get cheaper syringes at WalMart...yes, I know I shouldn't buy there but when I was getting syringes for 2 cats on different insulins, I couldn't afford the ones at the pharmacy. If you're really short on money, you can even use a syringe twice. Not the best way to go, but not a deal breaker, either.

Diet helps. We call it 'catkins'. High protein (as long as there are no contraindications like liver or kidney problems), low carb. Don't bother with the the stuff the vet sells. You can get better foods at the pet food store for less money. I've got a chart I can send you if you want it with the carbs and protein calculated.

Diabetes is NOT a death sentence for your pet.