2026 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Cats Update Best Practices for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Monitoring

Feline diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent and serious endocrine disorder that can lead to significant physiological complications. While challenging, successful management is achievable, aiming to alleviate clinical signs and prevent hypoglycemia, with diabetic remission being a possible outcome. Current standard-of-care protocols require regular updates to integrate new therapeutic options and diagnostic tools. These guidelines address the evolving landscape of feline DM management, building upon previous recommendations to ensure optimal patient care and client education.

The 2026 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Cats represent an update to the 2018 guidelines, synthesizing existing clinically relevant information with new findings and expert opinions. The panel reviewed current evidence and clinical practices across various aspects of feline diabetes mellitus. This comprehensive review process aimed to provide a holistic framework for veterinary professionals. Key areas of focus included pathophysiology, diagnosis, and the integration of novel treatments like SGLT2 inhibitors, alongside established insulin therapies. The guidelines also detail monitoring strategies, dietary recommendations, and client education.

The updated guidelines offer comprehensive recommendations across the spectrum of feline diabetes mellitus management. They retain core clinically relevant information from the 2018 guidelines while incorporating new insights. Key areas addressed include detailed pathophysiology and diagnosis criteria, helping differentiate DM from transient hyperglycemia. A significant update involves guidance on how to treat and monitor cats receiving SGLT2 inhibitors, a newer therapeutic class. Various insulin options for cats are discussed, alongside best practices for monitoring cats receiving insulin therapy to achieve optimal control and avoid hypoglycemia. The guidelines also provide specific recommendations for diet and physical activity, crucial components of long-term management. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of at-home glucose monitoring devices are thoroughly reviewed, empowering owners with practical tools. Guidance on diagnosing and treating diabetic ketoacidosis is provided, along with strategies to identify cats at risk of developing DM. Client education is emphasized as a critical factor for successful outcomes.

The guidelines provide updated, comprehensive strategies for managing feline diabetes, integrating new therapeutic approaches like SGLT2 inhibitors and emphasizing client education for improved patient outcomes.