Hypoglycaemia in treated diabetic cats
One of the most important complications seen in
diabetic cats on insulin treatment is an unduly low blood glucose level,
called hypoglycaemia.
Situations that may lead to
hypoglycaemia are:
- Your cat receives the normal dose of insulin but for some reason has
not eaten its normal quantity of food (or has vomited).
- Your cat is abnormally active, leading to abnormally high energy
(glucose) use.
- Your cat receives a dose of insulin that is too high.
Signs of low blood glucose
Low blood glucose can be fatal, so it is extremely important that you
recognize these signs, which are often subtle in the early stages:
- restlessness
- trembling or shivering
- unusual movements or behaviour - some animals become very quiet and
stop eating.
- muscle twitching
- coma
What to do
If any of the above signs are present, you will have to react quickly.
- Provide food immediately.
- If your cat refuses to eat, administer a glucose
solution immediately. This solution can be made from glucose powder
and tap water. One gram of glucose per kilogram body weight should be
given (approximately 1 teaspoon for the average cat).
- Give the solution carefully into the cheek pouch using a syringe.
Only do this if you are sure that your pet can swallow. Dose very slowly
to avoid choking.
- If your pet is unable to swallow, rub the glucose powder into the
gums (especially under the tongue). BE CAREFUL THAT YOU ARE NOT BITTEN.
- As soon as recovery is evident, give food. Then keep an eye on your
cat for several hours to ensure that signs do not return.
- If your cat's condition worsens (muscle twitching, unconsciousness)
or you are unsure, call your veterinary surgeon immediately.