Senvelgo for Cats - The New Treatment for Diabetes in Cats
30ml Senvelgo for Cats is a prescription-only veterinary medicine (POM-V) that may be prescribed for cats with diabetes. Senvelgo is an oral liquid that is given once daily using a dosing syringe, with the dose and treatment plan set by your Vet. Senvelgo is intended to support long-term control of blood glucose and reduce the clinical signs of diabetes when it is appropriate for your cat.
Diabetes in Cats is a condition where blood glucose (blood sugar) stays too high because the body cannot produce enough insulin, cannot use insulin effectively, or both. Insulin is the hormone that helps glucose move from the blood into the body’s cells to be used for energy. In cats, diabetes is often linked to insulin resistance, where insulin is present but does not work as well as it should. Over time, the pancreas may also become less able to produce enough insulin to meet the body’s needs.
How Senvelgo Works
Senvelgo works in a different way from insulin injections. It acts primarily at the kidneys. When blood passes through the kidneys, glucose is filtered into the urine-forming fluid and is normally reabsorbed back into the bloodstream. Senvelgo reduces this reabsorption by blocking a transporter that moves glucose back into the body. As a result, more glucose leaves the body in the urine, which can lower blood glucose levels. This insulin-independent approach is one reason oral treatment may be considered for some cats, under veterinary guidance.
Because Senvelgo increases the amount of glucose passed in urine, it can also increase the amount of water passed in urine. Increased urination and increased thirst can occur during treatment. Fresh water should always be available. A sudden reduction in drinking, repeated vomiting, significant lethargy, or signs of dehydration need veterinary advice promptly, because dehydration can worsen quickly in diabetic cats.
Suitability for Senvelgo depends on your cat’s overall health and the type and stability of their diabetes. A vet will assess clinical signs, weight and body condition, and test results before recommending a treatment. Oral diabetes medicines are generally considered for cats that are stable and do not have evidence of diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious emergency where ketones build up in the body and cause dangerous dehydration and acidity. It can occur alongside vomiting, refusal to eat, profound lethargy, weakness, and abnormal or rapid breathing. A vet may recommend a different approach, including insulin and supportive care, if there are ketones present, if the cat is unwell, or if there are other complicating conditions.
Senvelgo is given by mouth. Many owners find it easiest to dose at the same time each day to support a consistent routine. The dosing syringe is usually placed into the side of the mouth, aimed towards the cheek pouch, and the liquid is given slowly to allow swallowing. Your veterinary practice will advise what to do if a dose is missed. A double dose should not be given unless a vet has specifically instructed it. If a cat spits out a dose or vomits soon after dosing, a vet should advise whether any action is needed, because repeating a dose without guidance can increase risk.
