Managing a chronic disease in cats need not be as overwhelming as you might expect, provided you are given sufficient instruction and support by your veterinarian, know what symptoms are red flags, and what side effects might be considered normal, and hold to a regular routine. Routine is all-important to cats, and even a very sick cat will expect his medication and other treatment to be delivered regularly, on schedule. Learn more about managing diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and other feline ills.
Managing an Arthritic Cat
Photo Credit: © Franny Syufy
Managing Chronic Renal Failure in Cats
Extremely common in older cats, CRF (Chronic Renal Failure) is a serious condition evidenced by gradual, irreversible deterioration of kidney function over a period of months or years. The kidney consists of tiny funnel-shaped tubes called nephrons, which filter and reabsorb the fluids that balance the body. When an individual nephron is damaged by any cause, (aging, poison, infection, etc.) it stops functioning.[p] [p]Managing a CRF cat will produce a roller-coaster of emotions, as you find yourself overjoyed or in despair over the latest BUN and Creatinine numbers. Try to remember the old medical adage to "treat the cat, not the numbers." Remember to keep your own stress at a minimum; avoid telegraphing negative feelings to your cat.Managing the Diabetic Cat
Diabetes in cats is very similar to human diabetes. Feline Diabetes Mellitus presents as one of two types: Type 1, caused by the insufficient production of insulin, and Type 2, related to the body's cells' inability to handle insulin efficiently. Although diabetes can strike cats of any age, it is more prevalent in older, obese cats, and is found more often in male cats.Secondary Diabetes can be caused by drugs or diseases that either impair the natural secretion of insulin, or its effects on tissues. Ovoban and corticosteroids are suspects, as well as hyperthyroidism and certain pancreatic conditions.
Although the management of feline diabetes is challenging, it is possible through a consistent program, working closely with your vet.
Managing a Hyperthyroid Cat
Photo Credit: © Franny Syufy
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are also common to other diseases, including diabetes, liver disease, and CRF. However, diagnosis can be confirmed with a complete blood panel which when combined with a thyroid-specific test, often the T4, which will show thyroid levels. Elevated levels of T4 will usually strongly indicate the presence of hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism can be successfully managed with oral medications, surgery, or with radioactive iodine (R131) therapy.
Managing Feline IBD
Feline Irritable Bowel Disease (disorder, or syndrome) are terms that describe a group of gastrointestinal disorders which display as inflammation of the lining (mucosa) of the digestive tract. Feline IBD can occur in the large intestine (colitis), the small intestine (enteritis), or the stomach (gastritis).Symptoms of IBD can mimic other conditions, and diagnosis can sometimes be complicated, requiring one or more tests, including blood tests, x-rays, radiographs, ultrasound, and/or stool examination. IBD can often be managed successfully through dietary changes, although medical therapy may also be utilized.
