Cat Diabetes Treatment in San Jose — ARCH Veterinary

Signs of diabetes in cats

Increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite, decreased grooming, weakness in the hind legs (a sign of diabetic neuropathy), and increased risk of urinary infections. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening emergency presenting with vomiting, lethargy, and dehydration.

Diagnosis

Persistently elevated blood glucose plus glucose in the urine, confirmed by an elevated fructosamine (which reflects long-term glucose unaffected by stress hyperglycemia). We also screen for concurrent conditions like pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, and urinary tract disease.

Treatment

Twice-daily insulin injections (usually Lantus/glargine or ProZinc) plus transition to a low-carbohydrate canned diet. We teach you to give injections — most cats tolerate them remarkably well. Home glucose monitoring with the AlphaTRAK 3 or continuous glucose monitor improves control and chance of remission.

Remission is possible

With prompt insulin treatment plus a low-carb diet, roughly 30–50% of newly diagnosed cats achieve diabetic remission within 1–6 months and may no longer need insulin. Earlier diagnosis dramatically improves remission rates.

Monitoring

Recheck fructosamine and clinical signs every 1–2 weeks initially, then every 3–6 months once stable. Continuous glucose monitors are a game-changer for cats and make dose adjustments much safer.

Advanced veterinary care in San Jose

ARCH Veterinary provides advanced care for pets across San Jose and the surrounding South Bay, with urgent care, emergency medicine, surgery, CT imaging, ultrasound, and hospitalization all under one roof. Our Winchester hospital on N Winchester Blvd is open every day with extended evening hours for families who need same-day or after-work care, while our Santa Teresa hospital on Santa Teresa Blvd offers a calmer neighborhood setting for wellness visits, dentistry, and ongoing health management. Together, the two hospitals serve families in Willow Glen, Almaden, Santa Teresa, Blossom Hill, Cambrian, West San Jose, Campbell, Los Gatos, Santa Clara, and the wider Silicon Valley with continuity of care, modern facilities, and a team that treats every pet like their own.

Frequently asked questions

Can cat diabetes be reversed?

Yes — with early insulin and a low-carb canned diet, 30–50% of cats achieve remission.

How often do I have to give insulin?

Twice daily, about 12 hours apart, given with or just after a meal.

Are home glucose monitors safe to use?

Yes — the AlphaTRAK 3 and continuous glucose monitors (like the Freestyle Libre) are very useful and much less stressful than vet curves.

What diet is best?

Low-carb canned food (under 10% calories from carbs) — examples include Hill's m/d, Purina DM, and Royal Canin Glycobalance.