THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS IN CATS

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most relevant endocrinopathies in feline clinical medicine, characterized as a chronic metabolic disorder by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin secretion, peripheral resistance to its action, or the interaction between both pathophysiological mechanisms. In cats, the disease presents substantial similarities to human type 2 diabetes mellitus, frequently being associated with obesity, aging, and the presence of concomitant diseases such as pancreatitis. Clinically, it manifests as polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and progressive weight loss, reflecting significant alterations in metabolism. Based on the literature reviewed, contemporary treatment is based on a multimodal approach, integrating nutritional management, insulin therapy, and, in some select cases, the use of oral hypoglycemic agents. Dietary intervention characterized by formulations with low carbohydrate content and high protein content plays a fundamental role in reducing postprandial hyperglycemia and optimizing metabolic control. In parallel, long-acting insulin analogs, such as glargine, detemir, and protamine zinc, remain therapeutic mainstays, demonstrating high efficacy in glycemic stabilization and inducing diabetic remission in some patients. Recent advances include the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and continuous glucose monitoring systems, which improve metabolic control. In summary, the evidence demonstrates that effective control of feline diabetes mellitus depends on individualized therapy, identification of comorbidities, and owner adherence to treatment, with early diagnosis and intensive glycemic control being determining factors for metabolic stabilization, better prognosis, and promoting clinical remission.