Emergency situations in diabetic cats

In diabetic cats, the following emergency situations may arise:

1. Hypoglycaemia - unduly low blood sugar
2. Diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycaemic hyperosmotic non-ketotic (HHNK) syndrome - caused by extremely high blood sugar

It is important to be prepared for the above situations if you own a diabetic cat.

CONTACT YOUR VETERINARY SURGEON IMMEDIATELY for possible adjustment of the insulin dose or treatment of additional medical problems if your diabetic cat shows any of these signs:

• Excessive drinking for more than 3 days
• Excessive urination or inappropriate urination in the house for more than 3 days
• Reduction in or loss of appetite
• Weakness, seizures or severe depression
• Behavioural change, muscle twitching or anxiety
• Constipation, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Signs of a bladder infection (passing frequent small amounts of urine, straining to urinate, blood in the urine)
• Swelling of the head or neck