Senvelgo Main Uses
Feline Diabetes Management: Specifically indicated to improve glycemic control in cats with diabetes mellitus not previously treated with insulin.
Clinical Benefits: Reduces classic diabetic symptoms such as excessive thirst (polydipsia), excessive urination (polyuria), and weight loss, while providing a flat glucose curve with minimal risk of clinical hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) events.
 
Senvelgo Active Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Velagliflozin (15 mg/mL).
Drug Class: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor.
Mechanism: It blocks the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys, which is responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream. By inhibiting this protein, the medication forces the kidneys to flush excess glucose out through the urine.
Insulin Independence: Unlike insulin, it does not replace a hormone but rather changes how the body handles sugar. It relies on the cat having some remaining pancreatic function to prevent metabolic imbalances like ketoacidosis.
 
Senvelgo Dosage & Administration
Standard Dosage: 1 mg/kg (0.45 mg/lb) of body weight administered once daily.
Administration Method: The liquid solution is honey-flavored for palatability. It can be given directly into the cat's mouth or applied on top of a small amount of wet food (1–3 teaspoons) that the cat will eat completely.
Dosing Syringe: Provided in the package, the syringe is marked in body weight (pounds or kilograms) rather than milliliters to simplify dosing.
Consistency: Should be given at approximately the same time every day. If a dose is missed, it should be given as soon as possible on the same day; otherwise, skip it. Do not double the dose.
Storage: No refrigeration is required, even after opening. Discard any leftover medication 6 months after opening the bottle.
 
Senvelgo Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects: Diarrhea or loose stools (occurring in about 51% of cats), vomiting (41%), and initial mild weight loss. These are often transient as the body adjusts.
Serious Risks (DKA): Cats are at an increased risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) or Euglycemic DKA (ketoacidosis with normal blood sugar levels). Monitoring for ketones in the urine or blood is mandatory.
Contraindications:
Do not use in cats already receiving insulin or previously treated with insulin.
Do not use in cats that are lethargic, dehydrated, or not eating at the time of diagnosis.
Not for use in cats with severe kidney disease (IRIS Stage 3 or 4) or those with suspected pancreatitis.
Monitoring: Requires regular veterinary follow-ups to check hydration, weight, and ketone levels. If a cat becomes lethargic or stops eating, the medication must be stopped immediately.
 
Senvelgo Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Canada Inc.
Official Website: https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/ca/
Brand Introduction: Boehringer Ingelheim is a global leader in animal health, particularly in the field of feline endocrinology. Senvelgo represents a breakthrough in veterinary medicine as the first liquid SGLT2 inhibitor for cats, aiming to provide a "needle-free" alternative to twice-daily insulin injections for eligible diabetic patients.