Hypoglycemic episodes in cats with diabetes mellitus: 30 cases (2013–2015)

Abstract

Objectives The purpose of this study was to review the characteristics of diabetic cats presenting to a specialty and emergency center for signs attributed to hypoglycemia and to identify the factors that may have contributed to the hypoglycemic episode, the patient’s clinical signs and laboratory findings, and the response of hypoglycemic cats to therapy. Methods Twenty-eight cats were presented a total of 30 times for symptomatic hypoglycemia. Data were collected from cat owners at the time of presentation and from subsequent patient records. Results The majority of cats presented for neurologic signs attributed to the reduced ingestion or subsequent vomiting of a meal after insulin had been administered or the accidental double-dosing of insulin. Concurrent illnesses that may have affected insulin requirements were also common. Conclusions and relevance Cats that demonstrated clinical improvement within 12 h of treatment were more likely to recover despite their mental status and glucose level on presentation.