Updates in Treatments for Feline Diabetes with Dr. Chris Byers

Cost

Free/Sponsored

October 2025

In this VETgirl veterinary continuing education podcast, we interview Dr. Christopher G. Byers, DACVIM, DACVECC about SGLT2 inhibitors for the treatment of diabetes mellitus to manage hyperglycemia in cats. Tune in to know how to select the ideal feline diabetic candidate for this diabetes mellitus treatment option!

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of oral medications that lower blood glucose levels by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the proximal tubules of the kidney, thus increasing glucosuria. In healthy animals, SGLT2, a membrane protein located in the early proximal tubule, is principally responsible for the reuptake of over 90% of glucose from the glomerular filtrate. By blocking SGLT2, these inhibitors reduce the amount of glucose that returns to the bloodstream, leading to a decrease in plasma glucose concentration. This mechanism of action is insulin independent.

SGLT2 inhibitors are prescribed to cats primarily for the treatment of diabetes mellitus to manage hyperglycemia. SGLT2 inhibitors are not suitable for all feline diabetics. Suitable candidates typically include otherwise healthy, newly diagnosed diabetic cats with a good appetite and without significant comorbidities. Some residual beta-cell function is considered necessary to prevent significant ketosis, as endogenous insulin production is needed to some extent. Close monitoring is also crucial, especially during the initial phase of treatment, to watch for potential complications such as euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (eDKA). Discontinuation of the SGLT2 inhibitor is a primary treatment goal if eDKA occurs.

Today’s VETgirl podcast is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Boehringer Ingelheim provides innovation for preventing and treating diseases in animals. The company offers a wide range of vaccines, parasite-control products, and medicines for pets, horses, and livestock to veterinarians, animal owners, farmers, and governments. As a leader in animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim values that the health of humans and animals is deeply connected and strives to make a difference for people, animals, and society. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/animal-health.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: PROZINC® (protamine zinc recombinant human insulin) is for use in dogs and cats only. Keep out of the reach of children. Owners should be advised to observe for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs may include weakness, depression, behavioral changes, muscle twitching, and anxiety. In severe cases of hypoglycemia, seizures and coma can occur. Hypoglycemia can be fatal if an affected animal does not receive prompt treatment. PROZINC should not be used during episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Appropriate veterinary monitoring of blood glucose, adjustment of insulin dose and regimen as needed, and stabilization of diet and activity help minimize the risk of hypoglycemic episodes. The attending veterinarian should evaluate other adverse reactions on a case-by-case basis to determine if an adjustment in therapy is appropriate, or if alternative therapy should be considered. The safety and effectiveness of PROZINC in puppies, kittens, or breeding, pregnant, and lactating animals has not been evaluated. For more information, including full prescribing information, please call 888-637-4251 or visit docs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/Prozinc_for_Dogs_and_Cats_Combined_PI.pdf.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
SENVELGO® (velagliflozin oral solution) is indicated to improve glycemic control in otherwise healthy cats with diabetes mellitus not previously treated with insulin. Before using this product, it is important to read the entire product insert, including the boxed warning, at https://docs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/SENVELGO_oral_solution_PI.pdf

PROZINC® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc.
SENVELGO® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, used under license.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner.
©2025 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. US-PET-0686-2025

Please note that the opinions in this podcast are expressed by the speaker(s)/sponsor(s), and not directly endorsed by VETgirl.

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