Pathophysiology & Clinical Signs
This metabolic disorder results from an absolute or relative insulin deficiency.
What is diabetes mellitus?
This type of test can confirm metabolic acidosis by showing a high anion gap.
What is a blood gas analysis?
This type of therapy is the first step before starting insulin.
What is fluid resuscitation?
This blood value must be monitored closely during insulin infusion.
What is blood glucose?
This percent of dogs and cats reportedly survive DKA.
What is 70%?
This alternative energy source is produced when glucose can't be used.
What are ketone bodies?
This ketone is the predominant one in DKA and is measured by Freestyle Optium Neo.
What is beta-hydroxybutyrate?
Potassium must be supplemented immediately because this hormone drives it into cells.
What is insulin?
Hypokalemia that does not improve may indicate deficiency of this other mineral.
What is magnesium?
This percent of cats may have repeated episodes of DKA.
What is 40%?
This acid-base disturbance results from excessive ketone production.
What is metabolic acidosis?
This common urinary finding helps indicate DKA but can be falsely low in some cats.
What is ketonuria?
This electrolyte, if severely low in cats, may cause hemolytic anemia.
What is phosphorus?
This sampling site is useful in cats when both cephalic veins are in use.
What is the medial saphenous vein?
This test estimates long-term glucose control but is not useful for acute changes.
What is serum fructosamine?
Lethargy, vomiting, dehydration, and collapse are nonspecific signs of this serious complication.
What is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
A cat with this symptom is more likely to have DKA than a stable diabetic cat.
What is hypothermia?
This type of insulin is preferred for DKA due to its titratable nature.
What is short-acting insulin?
This monitoring device is accurate in hydrated patients and attaches to skin.
What is the FreeStyle Libre?
This post-hospital tool helps track at-home glucose over time.
What is a glucose monitoring system?
This type of hormone (e.g., cortisol, glucagon) counters insulin and contributes to DKA.
What are stress hormones?
This calculated lab value is high in both dogs and cats with DKA and aids diagnosis.
What is the anion gap?
In cats with prolonged anorexia, this type of feeding may be required.
What is assisted enteral feeding?
This can result from repeated blood sampling, especially in cats.
What is anemia?
Post-hospital, owners are advised to avoid determining this too early.
What is the ideal insulin dose?