These guidelines are not intended to replace the advice given by your veterinarian. It is important you discuss treatment options with your cat’s physician BEFORE an event occurs.

Treating hypoglycemia: During a hypoglycemic attack your goal is to stay calm, bring the blood glucose back to a safe level, continue to observe your pet, and contact the vet. An oral application of about a tablespoon of a glucose solution such as corn syrup (Karo), maple syrup, honey, etc. will raise the BG level and alleviate this condition. Though syrup will bring up the BG quickly, its effects are short-lived. If the insulin is long lasting or if the hypoglycemia is severe, the effects of the syrup will wear off and the the hypoglycemia may return. Therefore, following this emergency measure, food should be provided to ensure BG levels remain stable.

LOW NUMBERS - WITHOUT SYMPTOMS: If you've home tested and found low numbers but no symptoms, retest glucose using a large blood sample to make certain you have enough blood. If you again receive a low number (40 - 60mg/dL or 2.2 - 3.3mmol/L) give food or treats until the BG rises to an acceptable level. If cat refuses food, syrup may be used. Always keep in mind that with low BG and no symptoms, the BG number is not as important as where it is headed. In other words, if you get a BG of 100 mg/dL or 5.6 mmol/L or less and there are still several hours or more before the insulin peaks, your need to watch your cat (and the numbers) carefully. With very low numbers and NO SYMPTOMS, a cat can be fine one moment and seizuring the next.

MILD SYMPTOMS: If your pet's BG is only slightly low, you may often be able to treat the hypoglycemia by feeding normal food. Should your cat refuse, offer treats, or a favorite food. If the cat refuses all food, use syrup.

MODERATE SYMPTOMS: Syrup should be given either alone or combined with food. Syrup can be mixed in with wet food or drizzled over dry food. If your cat won't eat, rub syrup on the gums and inside of the cheeks. Observe your pet for several hours as hypoglycemia may reoccur.

SEVERE SYMPTOMS: If your pet is severely hypoglycemic, especially if it is having seizures or unconscious, you must give syrup immediately. Carefully rub small amounts of syrup on the cheeks and gums, taking care to prevent obstruction of the airway in an impaired animal. Do not put a lot of liquid in the pet's mouth, and be sure the pet does not choke. Do not stick your fingers inside the teeth of a seizuring pet - you may get bitten. Call your vet and seek advice.

After a hypoglycemic episode cats are more sensitive to insulin, so a reduction in dosage is generally advised. With moderate to severe episodes, your Vet may have you skip the next injection altogether. It is very important that you discuss your cat’s hypoglycemic event with your Vet, so together you can decide upon the next course of action.