Diabetic cat seizing at home: insulin-induced hypoglycaemia
10-year-old cat with diabetes mellitus on insulin glargine, which has been eating better and drinking less over recent weeks. The owner calls because the cat is trembling, disoriented and started seizing a few hours after the morning dose.
What do you advise the owner by phone?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Give rectal diazepam and wait for the next insulin dose
The likely cause is hypoglycaemia; diazepam does not correct it and the next insulin dose would make it worse.
B. Offer wet food by mouth immediately
A seizing or disoriented cat cannot swallow safely: there is a risk of aspiration and of being bitten.
C. Rub glucose syrup or honey on the gums, without putting fingers in the mouth, and come to the clinic
Correct. Absorption through the oral mucosa helps raise blood glucose on the way to the clinic, where IV dextrose will be given, glucose measured and the insulin dose reassessed.
D. Just skip the next insulin dose and do nothing else
Skipping the dose is reasonable, but it does not correct the current hypoglycaemia, which can cause permanent neurological damage if prolonged.
lightbulb Key takeaway
A cat on insulin that eats better and drinks less may be entering diabetic remission, which is common in cats: the usual dose becomes excessive. Teach owners the signs of hypoglycaemia and what to do, and review the dose with curves or a glucose sensor.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.