Anyone have any idea- this cat is diabetic?

[MA]

received in email

Have you ever come across a really weird rash, on a cat, right above the tail and for about 4 inches around it. It's very red, itchy and scabs up. It's on my Quigley and if I rub it he goes into a total spasm! It'd be very funny if it wasn't so sad! Seriously, he looks like he goes into a seizure.
I thought at first that it was an allergy to the Purina DM he was on-- so I've switched him over to Eagle Pack Holistic/Organic. But it's still there. The really weird thing is that now it looks like Boo (my Belgian) has something similar-- also itchy and also dandruffy.
I've never seen anything like the one on Quig. They don't have fleas-- haven't for years.
I really don't want to take him to a vet-- all they'd suggest is medicated shampoo and cortisone-- which can kill a diabetic cat.
Any ideas?

[Traci]

Many diabetic cats develop a "stud tail"....sometimes it is simply due to the cat being overweight and unable to groom that area. However, if this person hasn't had her kitty evaluated since this rash developed, it's time to see the vet, make sure the insulin is being properly regulated and maybe opt for a general blood profile if one hasn't been done within the last 6-8 months.

I'd get this kitty back on the DM, dietary management is paramount for diabetic cats, I doubt his insulin will be readily absorbed with this holistic/organic food

[MA]

thanks Traci I have passed your words on.