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From: lauran@reed.UUCP (Laura Nepveu)
Newsgroups: net.pets
Subject: Re: diabetic felines
Message-ID: <2417@reed.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 31-Jan-86 16:12:18 EST
Article-I.D.: reed.2417
Posted: Fri Jan 31 16:12:18 1986
Date-Received: Sun, 2-Feb-86 01:14:23 EST
References: <26200008@uiucuxc>
Reply-To: lauran@reed.UUCP (Laura Nepveu)
Organization: Reed College, Portland, Oregon
Lines: 35

In article <26200008@uiucuxc> deb@uiucuxc.CSO.UIUC.EDU writes:
>
>My 12.5 year-old male (neutered) cat recently was diagnosed as having
>diabetes.  
>
>I'd appreciate hearing from anyone who has owned and treated a
>diabetic feline.   
>
>         Debbie Hudson

I don't know about diabetic felines, but my family and I have
been taking care of a diabetic dog now for three years now.
When the dog was diagnosed she was given only two years.  
I just want to reassure you that this isn't a short term death
sentence.  

Her survival is the result of diligent care.  The first thing I
would recommend is to be watchful of the cat's reaction to the
insulin with regular tests for sugar levels in the urine.  I 
realize this is more dificult with a cat, but it is necessary.
You may also have to arrange more time at home at first since
your cat may be prone to insulin shock or seizures.  After our
dog stabilized she didn't have these anymore.

The dog got used to the shots rather quickly.  After about a
year and a half she became quite blind and required more
attention, not only to keep her from hurting herself, but also
to reassure her.  I've found that if I keep a steady stream of
conversation going, while saying her name alot, it keeps her
happier.  Since cats aren't so dependent on human attention as
dogs this may not be necessary.

I wish you the best of luck and hope.

					Laura