Predictors of Remission in Cats with Diabetes

November 9, 2010

Zini E, Hafner M, Osto M et al: Predictors of clinical remission in cats with diabetes mellitus, J Vet Intern Med 24:1314, 2010.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common endocrine diseases found in cats. Insulin therapy is the most effective means to achieve blood glucose control. Clinical remission is not an uncommon finding in cats with well-controlled diabetes, though few studies have explored predictors of remission. Data was retrieved from the medical records of 90 cats with newly diagnosed diabetes. The data collected included history, signalment, physical examination findings, hematology, biochemical profile, and the occurrence and duration of remission. Remission was defined as normoglycemia without insulin longer than 4 consecutive weeks. The reason why remission occurs in some cats is uncertain. It is hypothesized that adequate control of blood glucose levels with insulin may reverse glucose toxicity to feline beta-cells in the pancreas. Owners of diabetic cats may be more motivated to treat their cats if there is better anticipation of remission. In this study, 45 of 90 (50%) diabetic cats achieved clinical remission and the majority achieved remission within 6 months from diagnosis. Results from this study indicate that remission was more likely with higher age, and less likely in cats with elevated serum cholesterol. Remission was longer with higher body weight, and shorter in cats with higher serum glucose. [VT]

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Roomp K, Rand J: Intensive blood glucose control is safe and effective in diabetic cats using home monitoring and treatment with glargine, J Feline Med Surg 11:668, 2009.