Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder in dogs and
cats. Recent data has shed light on the pathogenesis of the
disorder in cats and has highlighted the role of diet and oral
hypoglycemic therapy. In the majority of cases, the most
appropriate therapy in both dog and cats includes the
administration of insulin. We will discuss the role of the
various insulin preparations currently available and develop a
logic approach to the initial and long term management of
diabetes. The key to successful management of the diabetic
patient lies in close communication with the pet owner and
prompt recognition and treatment of concurrent disorders. 1.
Insulin is still the mainstay of therapy in the majority of dogs
and cats with diabetes mellitus. 2. Diet is an important part of
diabetic management especially in obese patients. 3. Oral
hypoglycemics may be helpful in lieu of or in combination with
insulin to improve glycemic control. 4. Auto-immune disease,
pancreatitis and amyloidosis are the most common causes of