If you have just found out that your cat has diabetes, don't panic straight away. A cat can live and grow old with diabetes if you look after it properly.

How do you deal with a cat with diabetes?

Firstly, you need to find out as much as you can about the disease. Ask the vet everything you can think of. Find out about all the possible treatments for diabetes, just as you would for a human. Your cat is part of the family, so your cat's health is your top priority at this time.

Unfortunately, the treatment costs for diabetes can be very high at the beginning, but most vets offer payment by instalments in this case. You just need to be upfront with the vet about the cost. The special food that will probably be required will also be more expensive, but you shouldn't skimp on health.

The treatment of diabetes in cats mainly involves injections, tablets and a customised diet plan. Remember that it is very important for your cat's health that you follow the diet and treatment plan exactly, even if the change is a little difficult at first. Seek advice and moral support from family members and other cat owners, as you will certainly be under stress until the daily routine has settled in.

Travelling with a diabetic cat may be difficult, but it is feasible with sufficient advance planning. Take enough medication and special food with you for the duration of the journey and stick to the same feeding times as at home.

As with humans, the initial diagnosis of diabetes is a shock. But if you take the disease seriously and follow the vet's instructions, your cat will reward you with a long and happy life by your side.