What It Is
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic condition where your cat’s body can’t properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). It happens either because their pancreas isn’t producing enough insulin or their body isn’t responding to insulin effectively.
Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy. The result? A cat that eats more but loses weight, drinks excessively, and pees constantly.
Feline diabetes is common, especially in middle-aged to senior cats, and can be managed successfully with the right care.
🐾 Common Symptoms
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Increased urination (polyuria)
- Weight loss despite a good appetite
- Ravenous hunger (polyphagia)
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Weak hind legs (from nerve damage)
- Vomiting (especially in advanced cases)
- Poor coat condition
- Dehydration
- Urinary accidents or inappropriate peeing
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to ketoacidosis, a life-threatening complication.
🦠 Causes
Feline diabetes is similar to Type 2 diabetes in humans, often caused by insulin resistance. Key risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Age (most common in cats over 7 years)
- Physical inactivity
- High-carbohydrate diets
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Certain medications (e.g., steroids like prednisolone)
- Genetics (Burmese cats have a higher risk)
Male neutered cats and indoor cats are more frequently affected.
🔍 Diagnosis
Your vet will run several tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Typical diagnostics include:
- Blood glucose levels (often elevated in diabetic cats)
- Fructosamine test (shows average blood sugar over several weeks)
- Urinalysis (glucose in urine, sometimes with ketones)
- Weight and body condition check
- Full blood panel (to rule out other conditions and assess organ health)
It’s important to rule out stress-induced hyperglycemia, which can cause temporary spikes in blood sugar.
💊 Treatment
Diabetes management takes commitment, but most cats adjust quickly to their new routine.
Main treatments include:
Insulin injections
- Typically given twice daily
- Most common types: glargine, PZI, or Vetsulin
- Small needles; most cats tolerate it well
Dietary changes
- Low-carb, high-protein diets help regulate blood sugar
- Wet food is often preferred over dry
- Prescription diets (e.g., Purina DM, Hill’s m/d) may be recommended
Monitoring
- Blood glucose monitoring (home testing with a glucometer or Freestyle Libre)
- Urine testing for glucose and ketones
- Regular vet visits for bloodwork and dose adjustments
🩺 Prognosis
Many cats live happy, stable lives with diabetes. Some even go into remission with early, aggressive treatment. With daily care and close monitoring, your cat’s quality of life can be excellent.
However, if left untreated, diabetes can lead to:
- Ketoacidosis (emergency)
- Muscle wasting
- Neuropathy (weak back legs)
- Dehydration and organ damage
💡 Cat Owner Note
Giving injections may sound scary, but most cat owners find it’s easier than giving pills. Many cats don’t even flinch. Once you get into a routine, it becomes just another part of your daily care, like scooping the litter box or filling the food bowl. And best of all? You’ll be giving your cat a much better life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Diabetes
Is feline diabetes curable?
Not exactly, but remission is possible, especially if caught early. Many cats achieve remission with proper insulin therapy and diet changes.
Can I treat diabetes without insulin?
Rarely. Some cats may be managed with diet alone, but most need insulin therapy, especially in the beginning. Oral meds don’t work well in cats.
What should I feed a diabetic cat?
Low-carb, high-protein diets are best. Many vets recommend wet food only. Prescription diets are helpful but not always necessary.
How do I check my cat’s blood sugar at home?
You can use a pet glucometer (or some human ones) by getting a small blood drop from the ear or paw pad. Some owners use Freestyle Libre monitors for continuous readings.
Is it OK to miss an insulin dose?
One missed dose won’t usually cause harm, but you should never give a double dose to make up for it. Always check with your vet if unsure.
What are the signs of a diabetic emergency?
Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis include vomiting, weakness, dehydration, and rapid breathing. This is a life-threatening emergency. Get to a vet immediately.
How long can cats live with diabetes?
Many cats live for years after diagnosis with consistent care. Early intervention improves long-term outcomes.