Feline diabetes can be a frustrating diagnosis for pet owners and veterinarians, but SENVELGO oral solution can simplify disease management. Here are 5 tips for using SENVELGO to treat feline diabetes from Audrey Cook BVM&S, MSc Vet Ed, FRCVS, Dip ACVIM, Dip ECVIM, Dip ABVP (Feline Practice). To learn more about this topic, tune in to the full discussion between Dr. Cook and Cassi Fleming, MS, DVM, in the VetFolio podcast below.
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- Understand how SGLT2 inhibitors work
An SGLT2 inhibitor blocks sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2), allowing glucose to be eliminated in the urine instead of reabsorbed, which lowers blood glucose concentration. This elimination of persistent hyperglycemia allows non-insulin dependent diabetic cats with functional beta cells to regain normal insulin production and achieve euglycemia. - Communicate to clients how SENVELGO oral solution differs from insulin
SENVELGO is an oral liquid that is administered once daily either directly in the mouth or on a small amount of wet food. The medication is unlikely to cause clinical hypoglycemia, so glucose monitoring is less critical. Pet owners won’t need to give injections or plan their lives around their cat’s diabetes treatment. - Determine which cats are candidates for SENVELGO oral solution
SENVELGO is not appropriate for all diabetic cats. Cats who have previously been treated with insulin or have a significant comorbid condition—such as pancreatitis, hepatopathy, or untreated hyperthyroidism—should not be treated with SENVELGO oral solution. - Rule out diabetic ketoacidosis
Cats with ketosis or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) also should not receive SENVELGO. Screen for ketonuria or measure beta hydroxybutyrate with a handheld blood ketone monitor before starting treatment and at rechecks. A BHB level above 2.4 mmol/L at any point indicates that SENVELGO is not appropriate. - Understand euglycemic DKA
Euglycemic DKA, or eDKA in a patient with normal blood glucose, is a possible complication of SGLT2 inhibitors, which makes monitoring for ketonuria or blood ketone levels critical. If you detect euglycemic DKA, the cat should be treated for DKA and transitioned to insulin therapy.
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