Living with Diabetes

Support Helps

Eileen was looking for a new home for her cat. It wasn't that she didn't love him, or that she no longer wanted a cat. Cyrano had been diagnosed with diabetes, and Eileen didn't know what to do or whether she could afford to do it! So, she contacted Best Friends. Here's how Beata Liebetruth of the Best Friends Network replied:

Dear Eileen,

I've lived with a diabetic cat for almost 8 years, so I understand what you're going through. Diabetes is a tricky illness. But diabetic pets can live good, healthy, happy lives. One of the most important thing is closely monitoring the condition.

Regarding medical expenses: Once Cyrano has been stabilized, and the correct daily dosage of insulin has been determined, the monthly costs for insulin and syringes are $20 or less per month. Your vet might also suggest putting the cat on a special diet, which is a little more expensive than the regular cat food.

For the first few weeks, you will have to keep a close eye on Cyrano and make sure he eats appropriately. If you ever notice that he's getting dizzy (disoriented or circling around), it means his blood sugar level is too low and he could go into shock. This might happen if he received his normal dosage of insulin and then did not eat enough food, or if the dosage was too high. Don't panic. It almost certainly will happen at least once or twice, and it's part of your learning process. If you get home and you find him like this, immediately give him 1 or 2 spoonfuls of Karo Syrup directly into the mouth. He should be back to normal within 20 to 30 minutes.

But if it happens more than twice, talk to your vet about adjusting the insulin dosage.

Eileen, I know all this sounds frightening at first, but once you've found your routine, it will be a normal part of your relationship, just like feeding and cleaning litter boxes. And Cyrano will love you even more for paying the extra attention to him.

Best of luck with your kitty and I truly hope you'll be able to keep her.

Best Wishes,

Beata Liebetruth

Best Friends Network Coordinator

Best Friends Animal Society

Beata and Eileen continued to e-mail each other. Eileen decided not to give up Cyrano, and he's doing well!

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