Rachel Newton, a devoted cat owner from Pittsburgh, is thankful she acted swiftly when she began to notice subtle changes in her feline companion, Kramer. Adopted in 2020, Kramer has grown to be a vital part of Rachel’s life, and their bond has been described as inseparable.
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Kramer’s journey took an unexpected turn in late 2025, when his behaviour raised concerns for Newton. “I observed that Kramer was drinking an excessive amount of water and urinating more than usual,” she explained. Initially, there were no alarming signs in the bloodwork taken during a previous vet visit that summer, and her veterinarian had advised monitoring him closely for any behavioural changes.
By January 2026, however, the situation escalated. Kramer was still exhibiting increased thirst and urination, alongside a significant weight loss of around two pounds in a matter of weeks, prompting Newton to seek immediate veterinary care. The vet conducted blood tests and took a urine sample, ruling out other issues but noting an exceptionally high glucose reading.
“I think it was around 450,” Newton recalled. Given that stress can cause temporary spikes in glucose levels, the vet was initially hesitant but recognised that Kramer’s history had shown normal readings even in stressful situations. This led the vet to conduct further testing, which confirmed Newton’s worst fears: Kramer had diabetes.
“The vet explained the diagnosis in an incredibly kind manner, which was comforting,” Newton recounted. She learned that diabetes is relatively common in cats, particularly among older, neutered, overweight males like Kramer. The veterinarian presented multiple treatment options, and after careful consideration, Newton opted for insulin injections.
Kramer is now on Vetsulin, administered twice daily, and to monitor his blood glucose levels more effectively, the vet applied a Freestyle Libre monitor on his upper back. This device, typically used for humans, connects to an app that provides continuous glucose readings, allowing Newton to track his levels in real-time.
“I’ve seen a noticeable decrease in his water intake and urine output, and his appetite has returned to normal,” Newton said, reflecting on the progress Kramer has made since starting treatment. She expressed relief at how well he has adjusted and is delighted to see Kramer resume his playful nature.
Newton highlights the importance of attentive pet ownership, stressing that early detection can be crucial. “My vet mentioned how fortunate we were to catch his diabetes early, as many cat owners often miss signs until their pets are in a severe condition,” she noted. She encouraged other pet owners to trust their instincts and consult a vet if they notice anything unusual.
Although a pet’s diabetes diagnosis can be daunting and overwhelming, Newton reassures fellow cat parents that it is a manageable condition. “We’ve established a routine now, and it helps to have a support system in place in case you need assistance,” she advised. She believes affordable treatment options are available, especially with a supportive veterinarian to help navigate through the management plan.
Overall, Rachel Newton’s experience with Kramer serves as an important reminder of the need for vigilance in pet care. With the right treatment and commitment, her journey illustrates that even a chronic condition like diabetes can be handled effectively, leading to a happy and healthy life for beloved pets.