Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in cats.

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state are 2 potentially life-threatening presentations of feline diabetes mellitus. Presentations range from mildly anorexic cats with diabetic ketoacidosis to comatose cats with diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. Such cases are the result of severe insulin deficiency and/or concurrent disease, resulting in nausea and vomiting, electrolyte and water losses, acidosis, and circulatory collapse. The condition requires careful attention to supportive care to correct fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, treatment of concurrent diseases, and reversal of the effects of insulin deficiency. However, early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and institution of appropriate insulin therapy prevents these complications.