Life or Death Situation.

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kkoehler

Member Since 2014
Hello. I need serious help.

My cat went to the vet last Tuesday. He was extremely sick 2 days prior to me taking him to the vet. He was still eating (HE EATS CONSTANTLY.. BUT IS STEADILY LOSING WEIGHT. He weighed 15 lbs. a year ago and now weighs 6 or less... probably 5... DESPITE CONSTANTLY EATING). He recently had surgery on his gums so I thought maybe his teeth was the reason for his weight loss. He's been at the vet constantly since I got him last year. Anyway, two days before taking him to the vet, I thought he had CRF so I gave him fluids. He was still eating but very lethargic. I didn't think he would make it through the night. When I took him to the vet, I thought he would be diagnosed as CRF or hyperthyroidism. He has been admitted since Tuesday (8 days). Last tuesday, they ran blood and said he had a high level of white blood cells. It wasn't leukemia. They were giving him antibiotics. Then Thursday comes, I get a voicemail that he has diabetes. I went in to visit him Saturday morning and then again Monday night. He can't walk on his back legs. He's pooping/peeing on himself. His eyes are clearer then they were and he knows who I am. He keeps meowing at me and he never meowed before getting sick. It's like he's talking to me. But anyway, I got a voicemail today stating that THE VET WANTS ME TO COME IN AND PUT HIM TO SLEEP. I obviously don't want to. They said they are having a hard time regulating his blood sugar. I'm searching allover the internet trying to find out if I should put him to sleep, maybe go for a second opinion, ANYTHING?! Does anyone with more experience have any advice? He does look terrible but if there's a chance he can live.. I don't want to put him to sleep. Opinions? THANK YOU!
 
Are they testing every 2 hours or so? Do they have him on a dextrose drip just in case the blood glucose goes to low? What blood glucose test numbers does he have? I hope you get a vet today that knows a lot about diabetes and doesn't just say he does. Maybe you could ask if you could have another vet look at him. I wish you and your kitty The Best Of Luck.
 
I agree with Dyana. Ask to see another vet. A second opinion never hurts. My vet never once suggested putting Gypsy to sleep from diabetes. I'd ask about what tests they've done, what is his BG, etc. Get the info on why they suggested that and get a second opinion. Are they giving insulin? Do you know what kind and how much? I feel like there's not enough info they've given you.

Let us know what the vet says!! (((HUGS))))
 
I don't know what his numbers are or if he's on a drip. I'm pretty angry because I haven't even talked to the vet this whole week. When I went in Saturday he wasn't there. Same on Monday. I've been talking to receptionists and the tech... and they really haven't said much. They never said that HE COULD DIE... so I didn't prepare myself for this. I just figured that he was admitted... they diagnosed him... he's in good hands. But I guess I was wrong? What's the chances that HE REALLY DOES NEED TO BE PUT TO SLEEP AND THERE'S NOTHING THAT ANYONE CAN DO FOR HIM?

In 2 hours, when the vet opens... I'm going to pick him up. I'm just gonna tell them that I want to see him. That's true. I do want to see him. I haven't gotten to spend more than 10 minutes with him in a week and I'd like to assess the situation myself... and DEFINITELY, go for a second opinion somewhere. I just don't know if it's normal for his back legs really not to work. For him to be so weak. He's still eating and I think his spirit is still good. He is going to the bathroom on himself.

I'm def. gonna get the second opinion I just want to make sure I tell them what I want for him. I've seen something about DKA and Idk if they even checked that. And if I should request it at the new vet.

Thank you!
 
Yes take him to another vet, it sounds like he could be in DKA and needs insulin. Make sure whoever you take him to is familiar with feline diabetes.
His back legs not working is most likely neuropathy from the diabetes that needs to be treated. Please let us know whats going on. Its sure does not sound to me like they are helping your cat at all.

Terri
 
Ask for a ketone test. Not saying it's what is going on but it will put your mind at ease right? Can't hurt to tell them you want that test. Are they feeding him? If he won't eat, syringe feeding or a feeding tube (NOT as bad as it sounds) can help. It's important that he eats. I say do what you think is right. I straight up demanded a pancreatitis test once even when my vet said she didn't think that was the problem. It turns out it wasn't, but I felt better...and knew I did the right thing for my girl . Don't be embarrassed...this is your child. You do what you think is necessary. Diabetes isn't really fatal...complications can be. I wouldn't consider putting him to sleep without a TON more info and a second opinion on what is up. Take deep breaths...we're here for you!
 
If he is in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), it will disrupt his electrolytes. This, too, can cause difficulty standing and walking as these mineral ions are needed to transmit nerve messages. If its bad enough, electrolyte disturbances can be fatal.

Ask if they have checked his potassium levels. That is one which can be disrupted in DKA.
 
So I went to the vet yesterday morning to pick him up. I was picking him up for a second opinion. I told them I'd be back later, though... because he needed his insulin. Anyway, when I went to pick him up... he was 80% back to his normal self!!! :smile: I told them that I did NOT want to put him to sleep. Anyway, the vet said that's fine and said I'd have to give him insulin - 1 unit, twice a day. It's human insulin. I also have fluids with sugar that I have to give when he's dehydrated. They said they want to see him back in a few weeks unless he gets a lot worse...or a lot better... then the doctor wants to see him. Opinions? He's now at home and I'm so happy. He's eating and everything. He still seems a bit weak but I think that's to be expected considering he was on his death bed last week, right? Trying not to get my hopes too high, though.
 
Which human insulin?

- Humulin or Novolin N - not recommended as it lasts only 6-8 hours in most cats. May require dosing every 8 hours for best control. Must wait about 30 minutes after feeding before giving a shot because it can drop the glucose very quickly.

- Lantus - recommended, lasts longer that 12 hours in most cats

- Levemir - recommended, lasts longer that 12 hours in most cats

And what dose?
 
Where are you located? There may be someone close by who can help, offer vet recommendations, teach you to home test, etc.

Here is some basic information that will help you get started and better understand what to do and how to do it.......


WELCOME, this forum is a great place to gain knowledge and really learn how to manage feline diabetes. By doing just a few things each day (that really won't take up much of your time at all), you won't need to worry about losing your precious cat, not where feline diabetes is concerned.

There are three key factors to managing diabetes: food/nutrition, home testing and insulin

1) Feline Nutrition: Now, as far as diet - definitely dump the dry food (if you are feeding any) and if the vet recommends purchasing prescription food like DM just say "no thank you". ALL cats, and especially those with diabetes, do best on a species appropriate diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. Dry food DOES NOT fit that bill and DM food, even canned, just really isn't that great as far as quality. Most here on FDMB feed low carb/high protein canned, raw bought from a pet store or they make there own.

Here is a link to a site by a vet "Dr. Lisa DVM" ... who also posts on this board from time to time ... http://www.catinfo.org

If you look on the right side of her site, she has a food comparison chart to help you figure out what food you want to get based on the carb %.

You want to keep the carb % below 10% and around 7% is great. (Personally, I stay between 0-6% carbs.)

While on her site, you can read about in-depth info. on nutrition and how to make raw food, etc.

Here is another link that will give more information about food/nutrition

Nutrition/food info

The good thing with feeding your diabetic cat this way, is that it is ALSO good for any non-diabetic cat too. All your cats can safely eat the same food without worry and it may save you some costs and headaches of having to do separate feedings and keeping track of what they are eating.


2. Home testing: It is impossible to convey the value of testing your cat's BG (blood glucose) level at home. Some vets will "suggest" this, but most won't even mention it. They will send you home with insulin and an amount to shoot and maybe some instructions about hypoglycemia (blood sugar dropping to a dangerously low level).

Well, the thing is, human diabetics don't EVER give themselves insulin without checking there BG to make sure it is safe to do so, so why shouldn't it be the same for our kitties. Here on FDMB it is. You will notice that the vast majority of people here test their cat's BG at least 2x/day (before giving each shot to make sure the level is safe enough) and periodically at other times to see how the cat is responding to the current dose. We use a human glucometer, test strips and lancets - which are all very readily available and easy to use.

Our kitties get lots of love and treats for "putting up" with this and most of them actually come out to be tested on their own 'cause they want those treats . Here is a collection of great links that "Carolyn and Spot" pulled together about home testing. See what you think ... it truly is the best way to not only keep your cat safe but also really get a handle on this disease and help him to live a healthy life with FD (feline diabetes).

Home testing Links

3. Insulin: There are several types of insulin available. The top three we recommend are Lantus, Levimer or Prozinc all are great insulins. They are gentle insulin and given twice (BID) per day in 12 hour increments.

Please read up on the insulins available, here is a link to the Insulin Support Groups:

Insulin Support Groups

However, one caveat and again this shows how these three things are inter-related:

If you are feeding dry food or even a high carb food, BEFORE removing these foods, please make sure of your insulin dose as it will most likely need to be reduced, so as to avoid a possible hypoglycemic situation due to the removal of the dry/high carb foods that will lower the BG’s and reduce the amount of insulin required. Again, another reason why home testing is important.

I know this all seems like a lot, and that is because it is ... there is a learning curve here. But as long as you are determined and keep at it, you will have it down before you know it and you'll be seeing the results in Your cat' overall health and happiness. Ask all the questions you can think of – that is why we are here!

Also, if you have not done it yet, take the time and fill out your profile. It will help when others come on and read this. Also, let us know where you live - city/state or city//province/country as there are probably people in your area who can provide on the ground support and help you to learn home testing, etc.
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Now, you can do this on a budget. Here is a shopping to get started:

1. Meter ie Walmart Relion Confirm or Micro*
2. Matching strips
3. Lancets - little sticks to poke the ear to get blood . new members usually start with a larger gauge lancet such as 28g or 29g until the ear learns to bleed. Optional - lancing tool.
4. Neosporin or Polysporin ointment with pain relief to heal the wound (can use generic brand)
5. Mini flashlight (optional) - useful to help see the ear veins in dark cats, and to press against
7. Ketone urine test strips ie ketodiastix - Important to check ketones when blood is high
8. Treats for the cat - like freeze dried chicken, even rotisserie chicken, deli chicken, canned tuna will work
9. Karo syrup/table syrup, honey or any sugar product like jam, jelly, etc. if you dont have it at home - for hypo emergencies to bring blood sugar up fast -
10. A couple of cans of fancy feast gravy lovers or other high carb gravy food- for hypo emergencies to bring blood sugar up fast


• We suggest the Relion meter and matching strips from Walmart, as they are the most economically priced meter and strips. That is assuming you have a Walmart nearby. If not, then you can purchase any human glucometer except for Freestyle with butterfly strips or any meter with TRU in the name. People have had issues in the past with these meters and best to start off with something else.


Here is a link to questions that you can ask any vet:

http://www.indulgedfurries.com/petdiabe ... stions.htm



OK, that's enough for the moment. What questions do you have?
 
OK - you pm'd me and per board guidelines, I'll respond here.

Novolin can work, but as I noted above, it lasts maybe 6-8 hours, leaving 4 to 6 hours with no insulin coverage in most cats. Optimal control may require testing and shooting every 8 hours.
It is very harsh - drops the glucose quickly and it wears off quickly.

You must test, feed, and wait 30 minutes before shooting so food can buffer the insulin.

Better insulin includes ProZinc, PZI, Lantus, or Levemir.
 
I am sooooo happy that you didnt take your vets advice and put your lovely little kitty down. I'm just as happy that he has improved so much. Does your little fella have a name?
 
Thanks for the advice everyone. My cat was found as a stray last year.

His eyes are really mucousy. He's got a thick coat of mucus at the bottom of his eyes. Is that normal for diabetic cats and what does it mean?

I'm going to keep reading and taking all of your advice... But I have one more question -

Earlier today he seemed kind of dazed and his eyes looked funny. I mixed a little water with sugar and fed it to him. Within 10 minutes, his eyes looked a lot better. Does that probably mean that his sugar was too low?

I'm going to learn how to do the home testing. Thank you!
 
It is very possible that he went too low and was hypoglycemic (hypo). The only way you are going to know if it is safe to give insulin is if you learn to home test.

If the eyes are mucusy, he could be sick, he could have an URI - you will need to take to a vet to find out and treat properly.
 
While you work on home glucose testing, see my signature link Secondary Monitoring Tools for supplemental assessments you can make which indicate how your cat is doing. In particular, urine ketone testing is a must, since he went to the hospital.
 
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