Did you know that cats can get diabetes too?   Some cats are more likely to get it than others, namely Burmese and Siamese. 

At Diabetes NZ, our Head of Youth and Type 1 has a Burmese cat called Eddie and he has type 1 diabetes.

When Eddie was first diagnosed, he had been very unwell and was displaying all the same signs of type 1 diabetes in humans.  Eddie became very lethargic and was wobbly on his feet.  His appetite was insatiable, so he was eating an enormous amount, yet losing weight and he became very skinny. Eddie was always thirsty and going to the toilet all the time.  

To keep Eddie healthy, he has regular blood glucose testing and gets given insulin every 12 hours. 

Unlike humans who have fingers to prick, Eddie’s blood glucose testing is done in his ears.  This is painful, but luckily it only happens once a week.  It gets done on the weekend because Eddie needs his blood tested every 4 hours to track his levels.  It’s a relief when it’s over and Eddie gets a special treat after each test. 

Eddie’s insulin is given in the morning and again at night.  He’s very brave and doesn’t meow when the needle goes in which makes it easier for his parents to deliver.

Eddie has a brother called Tigger who looks after him when he’s not feeling very well.