On November 2, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine issued an alert warning pet parents and veterinarians to keep a close eye on animals receiving the insulin product, Vetsulin, to treat animal diabetes. The product, which is manufactured by Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal, may contain varying amounts of crystalline zinc insulin, and could cause a delay in insulin action and an overall longer duration of insulin activity, according to the FDA.

“Pet parents whose diabetic dogs or cats are currently being treated with Vetsulin insulin should contact their veterinarians to discuss appropriate measures,” says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA. “Examples of alternative insulin choices include Humulin N and Levemir insulins for dogs, and Lantus (glargine) insulin for cats. These insulins require different syringes than those used to administer Vetsulin, and it is essential that pet parents work closely with their veterinarians when making any changes.”

Veterinarians should monitor their patients who are receiving Vetsulin, and consider transitioning them to the insulin products outlined above.

For more information about diabetes in cats and dogs, please check our pet care pages. To read the FDA’s official alert about Vetsulin, visit the FDA online