Your cat might seem perfectly fine. Maybe they start showing subtle symptoms like being a little thirstier than usual. Then, you take your feline companion in to the vet, and they are diagnosed with diabetes. What happened? Abbey Vet Hospital has seen how easily feline diabetes can go unnoticed, and we’d like to change that. Understanding how diabetes in cats works and how to manage it can make a life-changing difference for your pet.
What Is Feline Diabetes, Really?
Feline diabetes (which will most commonly be diabetes mellitus) occurs when a cat’s body either stops producing enough insulin or doesn’t respond to it properly. Insulin is the hormone that regulates blood sugar, and without it, sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead of being converted into energy. Diabetes in cats can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Most diabetic cats develop Type 2 diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin. While it’s often linked to weight or age, not every case has a single cause.
The Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats
These are a few potential symptoms of untreated diabetes in felines:
- Drinking more water than usual
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss even if eating more
- Sleeping more, playing less
- Weakness in the back legs
What Causes Diabetes in Cats?
There are several different risk contributors that can lead to feline diabetes.
- Obesity
- Age (especially 6 years and older)
- Breed predispositions
- Certain medications (like long-term steroid use)
- Other medical conditions
And importantly, sometimes it’s just genetics, which is why routine veterinary exams with annual diagnostics matter for your pet. Not all causes of diabetes in felines are visible or preventable.
Managing Cats with Diabetes
Caring for a diabetic cat requires patience and routine. Most cats respond very well to treatment, which may include:
- Insulin Injections: Follow directions from your veterinarian on how often to give your diabetic cat insulin injections. These are typically given twice a day.
- Diabetic-Friendly Diets: Your vet may recommend a prescription food or specific diet for your diabetic cat.
- Weight Loss: If your diabetic cat needs to lose weight, follow your veterinarian’s direction. They will come up with a safe meal and exercise plan for your pet.
- Glucose Monitoring: Your vet may track blood sugar through in-clinic tests, or you might learn to do it at home.
- Ongoing Vet Checkups: Adjusting treatment based on progress ensures your cat stays otherwise healthy.
With consistency and support, many cats go on to live their lives just fine. In rare cases, when diabetes is caught early, certain cats can even reach remission.
Testing for Feline Diabetes in Antioch, CA
A diagnosis of feline diabetes means adapting to a new routine. A veterinarian can help with that. Abbey Vet Hospital performs diabetes testing for cats in Antioch, CA. We have the knowledge and compassion your pet needs to live comfortably. Have questions about diabetes or noticing changes in your cat’s habits? Schedule a diabetes consultation at Abbey Vet Hospital.