# Diabetes Mellitus in Cats — Treatment & Medication Reference

> Feline diabetes is predominantly type-2 (~80%), driven by obesity and insulin resistance. Early intensive insulin therapy + low-carb diet can achieve remission in up to 60% of newly-diagnosed cats. Glargine and PZI are the preferred insulins per the 2018 AAHA Diabetes Guidelines.

**Source:** Script Unlock — verified-pharmacy prescription marketplace
**URL:** https://www.scriptunlock.com/pet-condition/cat/diabetes-mellitus
**Last updated:** 2026-07-05
**Reviewed by:** ScriptUnlock Pharmacy Verification Team

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## ⚠️ CAUTION

Bexagliflozin (Bexacat) carries an FDA black-box warning for DKA in insulin-dependent cats. Pre-treatment screening for ketones is essential.

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## Symptoms to watch for

- Polydipsia and polyuria
- Polyphagia with paradoxical weight loss
- Lethargy, plantigrade stance (diabetic neuropathy)
- Recurrent UTIs
- Cataracts (less common than dogs)

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## Treatment options for diabetes mellitus in cats

### First-line

- **glargine** — Lantus or compounded equivalents. Preferred for remission attempts.
- **protamine-zinc-insulin** — PZI (ProZinc) — FDA-approved feline insulin.
- **bexagliflozin** — SGLT2 inhibitor (Bexacat) — first oral diabetes drug for cats (FDA-approved 2022). NOT for cats with ketosis or insulin-dependent diabetes.






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## How to get treatment cheaper

1. **Upload your vet prescription** to Script Unlock: https://www.scriptunlock.com/upload-prescription
2. Verified pharmacies (retail + 503A compounding) bid the lowest cash price
3. First bid arrives in 1-4 hours
4. Pickup at the winning pharmacy or ship-to-home

**A valid veterinary prescription is required.** Always confirm diagnosis, dosing, and treatment plan with your veterinarian.

## Sources cited

- 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ISFM Feline Diabetes Guidelines
- FDA Bexacat Label

## Cite this page

> Script Unlock — verified-pharmacy prescription marketplace, ScriptUnlock Pharmacy Verification Team ([scriptunlock.com](https://www.scriptunlock.com))

Last updated: 2026-07-05