Tortoiseshell cats are cloaked in the color of falling leaves in November with their interwoven patterns of red, gold, and black. "Torties" are like potato chips; once you've enjoyed one, you'll want more. Tortie cats are homebodies; they love their families, and are loyal to a "T" to the one who cares for them. Don't be surprised, though, if your tortoiseshell cat shows a streak of sass at times. That tendency is referred to as "tortitude," and is often found also in calico cats.

Feast your eyes on this parade of lovely tortie ladies, and if you are lucky to share your home with one, submit your own tortoiseshell photo with the Photo Submission Guidelines. Sorry, but I will be unable to publish your photos without all the requested information.

Does your tortie cat epitomize tortitude? Share more photos and her story with this easy-to-use form
_{Photo of Tortie Kitten Scout
Photo Credit: © Dee Kridel}

As cats age, some of them develop chronic diseases, including the most common one: CRF (Chronic Renal Failure). Managing a chronic disease in cats need not be as overwhelming as you might expect, provided you are given sufficient instruction and support by your veterinarian, know what symptoms are red flags, and what side effects might be considered normal, and hold to a regular routine.

Routine is all-important to cats, and even a very sick cat will expect his medication and other treatment to be delivered regularly, on schedule. Learn more about managing diabetes, hyperthyroidism, chronic renal failure, and other chronic feline ills. I have recently added Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver Disease) to this list. Although Fatty Liver Disease is not chronic, it often accompanies other chronic diseases in cats.

The title sez it all.
_{Photo of Tortie Kitten Suki Credit: © Heather Fadlon}

More Wordless Wednesday

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Feline Diabetes is very similar to human diabetes. Feline Diabetes Mellitus presents as one of two types: Type 1, caused by the insufficient production of insulin, and Type 2, related to the body's cells' inability to handle insulin efficiently. Although diabetes can strike cats of any age, it is more prevalent in older, obese cats, and is found more often in male cats. Although the management of feline diabetes is challenging, it is possible through a consistent program, working closely with your vet.

One of the treatments prescribed for Type 1 Feline Diabetes is regular insulin injections, such as Vetsulin®. About.com Guide Janet Tobiassen Crosby, D.V.M., has reported the FDA Alert for Vetsulin®. Dr. Crosby recommends, "If your diabetic dog or cat is being treated with Vetsulin®, please contact your veterinarian with questions about your pet's symptoms or to discuss alternative insulins to use for your pet. "
_{Photo Credit: © iStockPhoto/Jon Schulte}

More About Diabetes in Pets:

Canine Diabetes Mellitus
Jenna Stregowski, RVT, About.com Guide to Dogs