Neuropathy in Diabetic Cats

One common complication of uncontrolled feline diabetes is hind leg weakness. Rather than walking normally- on the toes- the cat may walk down on his hocks. This posture is referred to as “plantigrade stance” (see image to the right). The condition is called diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and is the result of peripheral nerve sheath damage caused by uncontrolled high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). It is theorized that the hyperglycemia causes microvascular injuries in the small blood vessels that supply the nerves, resulting in an interruption in blood flow. The nerves in the cat’s hind legs are particularly vulnerable to this form of neuropathy.

This may be something that has been happening very slowly, over a long period of time, or may appear very suddenly. You may first notice that your cat is no longer jumping up on the bed or furniture. Perhaps she is having trouble getting up the stairs. You may have noticed that she is taking frequent breaks, and lying down after just a few steps. You may see his feet slip out from under him as he walks - especially on tile floors- or you may notice him having difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position. Eventually, he may begin to walk down on his hocks (heels) or, in some cases, the front wrists.

It is important to remember that other conditions may also cause difficulty walking: electrolyte imbalance – such as low potassium levels (especially if your cat is urinating a lot or has/had ketoacidosis)-, arthritis, muscle wasting, etc. Please have your vet confirm that the cause of the problem is neuropathy, but once it has been confirmed, there are things that can help reverse it.

Reduce/control the blood sugar levels. This is the most important factor in reversing neuropathy. Many cats will improve spontaneously when their BGs come under control, but there is significant evidence (both research based and anecdotal) that a vitamin supplement called Methyl B12 can also help reverse neuropathy in our cats.

(Diabetic neuropathy in cats can affect many nerves throughout the body, and- although less common- may cause loss of bladder or bowel control, as well.)

Methylcobalamin, or Methyl B12, is available in many health food stores, and in some pharmacies, or it can be ordered online from several reputable sites. (Xobaline is one well-tested brand name in the sugarcat world. Zobaline is the new cat-specific version of Xobaline, made without fructose or any other sugar-based flavors.).

Important note: No matter which brand of Methyl B12 you buy, please make absolutely sure that it does not contain Xylitol (an artificial sweetener), which can be toxic to cats and dogs.

The pills are small and water soluble. They can be given in whole pill form, crushed and mixed into food, or crushed and dissolved in a small bit of warm water and then stirred into food. The recommended dosage is between 3 and 5mg (3000 - 5000 mcg) per day, regardless of body size. Any excess is excreted in the urine, so there are no worries about overdosing. Remember - it's METHYL B12. Regular Vitamin B or B12 supplements have no effect on neuropathy.

Injectable MB12 is also available: http://www.healthbiotech.in/methylcobalamin-injection.html

Methyl B12 alone will be ineffective unless the blood glucose levels are also brought under control, but a combination of both factors can have your kitty jumping back up on the counters where he doesn't belong!

Some sources of Methyl B12 :

USA:

http://www.lifelinknet.com/siteResources/Products/Zobaline.asp

http://www.wonderlabs.com/itemleft.php?itemnum=9841#factbox

Canada:

http://www.naturalfactors.com/ca/en/products/727/vitamin-b12-methylcobalamin-5000-mcg

UK:

http://www.health-store.co.uk/Solgar-Methylcobalamin-Vitamin-B12-1000ug-30-Nuggets_p_12710.html

New Zealand:

http://www.naturalmeds.co.nz/SNaturals/Methylcobalamin.htm

Recommended further reading:

Jasper's story

Studies on MethylB12 and neuropathy

Types of neuropathy