New Oral Treatment Options for Feline Diabetes
SGLT2
Managing diabetes in cats has traditionally required daily insulin injections. Now, SGLT2 inhibitors (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors) offer an oral medication option for many newly diagnosed diabetic cats. This represents a significant advancement in feline diabetes management, making treatment easier for both cats and their owners.
- SGLT2 inhibitors are oral medications for newly diagnosed diabetic cats
- They work by helping the kidneys remove excess glucose from the body
- Not all diabetic cats are candidates — some still need insulin
- Regular monitoring is essential, especially in the first 2 weeks
- Most cats show improvement within 1-2 weeks of starting treatment
- Dietary changes may be recommended alongside medication
How SGLT2 Inhibitors Work
SGLT2 inhibitors work differently from insulin. Instead of replacing insulin, they help the kidneys remove excess glucose from the blood through urine. This lowers blood sugar levels without the risk of dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) that can occur with insulin. The medication is given once daily, mixed with food or given directly by mouth.
Which Cats Are Candidates
SGLT2 inhibitors are suitable for cats that are newly diagnosed with diabetes and still produce some insulin. Cats with significant weight loss, dehydration, or signs of ketoacidosis (a serious complication) should not start on SGLT2 inhibitors — these cats need insulin. Your veterinarian will run blood tests and a urine test to determine if your cat is a good candidate.
What to Expect During Treatment
Most cats show improvement in excessive thirst and urination within the first week. Blood sugar levels typically normalize within 30 days in about 70% of cats. Your cat will need frequent check-ups during the first 2 weeks (days 2-3, 7, and 14) to monitor for side effects and ensure the medication is working.
Diet and Monitoring
Your cat should stay on their current diet for the first 2 weeks, then transition to a low-carbohydrate diet as recommended by your vet. Canned food is preferred as it helps cats feel fuller. Regular monitoring includes checking for ketones in urine and blood, and measuring blood glucose and fructosamine levels.
- Your cat is drinking and urinating more than usual
- Your cat has unexplained weight loss despite a good appetite
- Your cat seems lethargic or unwell after starting diabetes medication
- You notice your cat's appetite has decreased significantly
- Your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea on the medication
- It's time for your cat's scheduled diabetes monitoring visit
At RVC, we offer comprehensive feline diabetes management including diagnosis, SGLT2 inhibitor therapy, insulin management, dietary counseling, and regular monitoring. Our team will work with you to find the best treatment approach for your diabetic cat. Call us at +853 6677 6611.
+853 6677 6611