Treatment7 connections · 4 sources
Insulin Therapy
Insulin therapy is the primary treatment for diabetes-mellitus in dogs and cats. It involves regular subcutaneous injections to replace the insulin the pancreas can no longer produce adequately.
Key Facts
- Dogs: virtually all are insulin-dependent (Type I-like); diabetes is usually permanent
- Cats: many have Type II-like diabetes; remission possible if blood sugar normalized quickly
- Common insulins for cats: Vetsulin (pork), ProZinc/PZI, Lantus/Glargine, Humulin N
- Administered by syringe or injection pen; usually twice daily ~12 hours apart
- U-40 syringes for 40 unit/cc insulins; U-100 syringes for 100 unit/cc insulins -- must match
- Feed before giving insulin to avoid hypoglycemia
- Vary injection site to prevent scarring and fat deposits
- Oral alternatives for some cats: bexagliflozin, velagliflozin, glipizide
- Insulin stored at room temperature lasts shorter; refrigeration extends to 4-6 months
- Never alter dose without veterinary guidance
- Species: dogs and cats
Connections (7)
Related Conditions
AcromegalyCondition
Growth hormone overwhelms insulin's ability to control blood sugar
Cushings SyndromeCondition
Cortisol excess causes insulin resistance
Diabetes MellitusCondition
Primary treatment for diabetes in both species
Diabetic KetoacidosisCondition
Short-acting insulin given carefully to avoid brain damage from rapid glucose drops
HypoglycemiaCondition
Most serious risk of insulin therapy