Diabetes in cats has reached epidemic proportions. The disease affects as many as 1 in 50 cats, with male, neutered cats and cats who are overweight or obese being at greater risk. The condition is becoming more prevalent in cats due to factors such as diet and low activity levels.
Treating diabetes is not always straightforward
Management and treatment of feline diabetes is often perceived as a very complicated process, as each cat requires an individualized plan, which includes frequent reassessment and adjustments to treatment as needed. Additionally, diabetic cats are often challenging to diagnose, treat, and monitor. Diabetes mellitus is not always a straightforward diagnosis.
There are many misconceptions about treatments and responses when dealing with feline diabetes. Effective treatment is based on a combination of patient goals, implementation of the treatment plan, the patient’s response, and finances. A strong partnership between veterinarian and cat parent and a frequent, open dialogue is key to achieving optimal results.
Diabetes Educational Toolkit
To help veterinary professionals diagnose and treat diabetic cats, and to help them work with clients to make the best treatment decision for each individual cat, the American Association of Feline Practitioners has developed a comprehensive and user-friendly toolkit. This kit is a digital resource that puts the most relevant diagnostic and treatment information in the hands of veterinary professionals.
“We are excited to release this digital resource to the veterinary community in the hopes that we can help veterinary professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of their diabetic feline patients through providing easy-to-access information that can be implemented for each cat. The purpose is to create more informed veterinary teams as well as cat caregivers,” said Dr. Apryl Steele, President, AAFP Board of Directors. “This Diabetes Educational Toolkit is intended to be an on-the-ground tool for veterinary professionals to access and gather the most relevant information quickly.”
You can view the full toolkit here.
The AAFP also offers resources for cat parents of cats with diabetes here.
