Originally Posted by
Brad Buckley, D.V.M.
The high protein, low carb food can be very helpful when managing a diabetic cat. Cats suffer from a "type 2" - like diabetes and limiting carbohydrates can often help them absorb their glucose more efficiently. I would monitor the water intake, appetite and body weight. If the cat begins to drink less water, if the appetite normalizes and if the body weight stabilizes then odds are that you are being successful with the diet.
We will never control diabetes as tightly in animals as is the norm in people because monitoring is much more difficult. However if the symptoms improve it is likely that the quality of life is improving and adequate. Remember, not all cats will be controlled with diet alone and many cats will need insulin injections in addition to diet change. There is a new insulin available for cats called Pro-Zinc and it is very promising - it is also quite expensive.
I wish you well with your kitty and I hope that things improve soon.