The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the first medication aimed at helping cats manage diabetes. This landmark decision adds a noninsulin option to veterinary care for diabetic felines and marks a significant step in how vets approach treatment plans.
The medicine is called Bexacat, with the active ingredient bexagliflozin. Unlike insulin, Bexacat is not a hormone replacement. It works by targeting the kidney’s ability to reclaim sugar from the urine. By inhibiting the sodium glucose cotransporter 2 SGLT2, the drug reduces the amount of glucose reabsorbed into the bloodstream, helping lower blood sugar levels in diabetic cats. This mechanism aligns with broader strategies seen in human diabetes treatment, adapted for feline physiology.
As with any new therapy, Bexacat is intended for a specific group of cats. Veterinary clinicians should screen for kidney and liver conditions, pancreatic disease, and a history of ketoacidosis before considering this drug. The treatment is not appropriate for cats that are currently on insulin therapy or have recently been treated with insulin. Cats that are malnourished, dehydrated, or weakened at diagnosis should not receive Bexacat until their general health improves under veterinary supervision.
The FDA based its decision on two controlled studies. In those trials, bexagliflozin demonstrated an improvement in blood sugar control for a substantial portion of diabetic cats — the effectiveness exceeded 80 percent in monitored outcomes. These results contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting SGLT2 inhibitors as a potential option in feline diabetes management. Clinicians and pet owners should discuss the benefits and potential risks with a veterinary professional to determine whether this therapy fits a given cat’s needs.
In practice, Bexacat may be considered as part of a broader, individualized treatment plan. Veterinarians will monitor kidney function, hydration status, and overall health, adjusting therapy as needed. The goal remains stable blood glucose levels while maintaining the cat’s quality of life and avoiding adverse effects. As the veterinary community gains more experience with this treatment, guidelines will continue to evolve, ensuring safe use and clear expectations for pet families.
For more information, readers can reference official FDA disclosures and peer reviewed veterinary studies that describe the development and clinical outcomes associated with Bexacat. These sources provide context on how SGLT2 inhibitors are being integrated into feline diabetes care and what pet owners should watch for during therapy, including signs of dehydration, changes in appetite, and any unusual weight fluctuations.