Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy in Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Updates in Feline Diabetes Mellitus and Hypersomatotropism

Flash glucose monitoring is a novel, noninvasive monitoring technique that is increasingly used in the management of small animal diabetes. This article provides guidance on the use of flash glucose monitoring in cats and demonstrates how this technique can be used in a range of feline diabetic cases, including those where management is proving challenging. Other aspects of complicated feline diabetic care are also discussed, including management of the sick diabetic cat, potassium depletion myopathy, and treatment options for cats with hypersomatotropism-associated diabetes mellitus. The use of insulin glargine 300 U/ml as a promising new long-acting insulin for diabetic cats is also discussed.

Hepatic lipidosis: Clinical review drawn from collective effort

Practical relevance: Hepatic lipidosis (HL) is the most common form of liver dysfunction in cats. If recognized early and treated appropriately, the prognosis is good; if not, the prognosis is grave. Clinical challenges: Distinguishing HL as idiopathic or secondary is critical since the presence of a concurrent disease affects the therapeutic plan and the prognosis.

AUDIENCE

Despite the unique and severe nature of a cat's response to anorexia and the complexity of the metabolic changes underlying this condition, the clinical acumen and technical ability to effectively diagnose and treat HL are readily available to all small animal practitioners. Patient group: Although many species develop a 'fatty liver', the cat is one of relatively few species that suffer from HL. The classic presentation is that of an overweight cat that stops eating for days to weeks, losing weight in the process. Equipment: Abdominal ultrasound is frequently employed in the diagnostic work-up of an anorectic cat; ultrasonographic findings often support a presumptive diagnosis, provide samples for cytology and, perhaps most importantly, help identify concurrent conditions that must be addressed for therapeutic success. All of the equipment necessary for essential nutritional intervention in an anorectic cat is readily available and easily affordable. Evidence base: The material for this review draws heavily on a relatively large number of original studies, excellent reviews by recognized experts, and informative communication with experienced clinicians, hence the term 'collective effort'.