Diabetes management in cats requires a different approach than in dogs. Section 6 of the 2026 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Cats provides primary care providers with ways to better serve their feline patients, including SGLT2 inhibitors.
Two SGLT2 inhibitors are now licensed for use in newly diagnosed, otherwise healthy feline diabetics not previously treated with insulin and are an appropriate treatment option for a substantial proportion of patients. Oral administration spares clients the challenges of injecting insulin and allows for more flexible care plans.
Key takeaways:
- SGLT2 inhibitors are only approved for newly diagnosed diabetic cats.
- Not all cats are suitable candidates for an SGLT2 inhibitor; thoroughly evaluate patients for comorbidities and start insulin in those with conditions that contraindicate SGLT2 inhibitor use.
- Monitor cats on SGLT2 inhibitors carefully for ketosis. Monitoring blood BHB is essential.
Source: AAHA via LinkedIn, May 6, 2026. Link. Section 6. Link.
Image: Link.
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