Our cat Skipper was diagnosed with diabetes over a year ago. At the time, he had lost a good deal of weight and his hind leg muscles were quite atrophied (he was getting to the point where he could hardly climb stairs). At the time, although we were relieved to have his condition diagnosed, it was extremely overwhelming. I get really freaked out by needles, so the thought of giving my cat an insulin shot terrified me. I didn't sleep at all the night before his first injection, and I think my hands were shaking the whole time I was giving it to him. I hope your cat is able to stay on pills -- that sounds a lot simpler. But regardless, we all got used to it (and so has the cat). Today, he has gained back all his weight, his strength has totally returned, and although the process of fine-tuning the doasage is on-going, he is otherwise quite healthy. My advice to you is to familiarise your friends and family with your cat's health needs -- in our case, that meant training several people on giving injections. The more people that can take responsibility for your cat when you need the night off, etc., the better. Good luck! (it DOES get easier).