Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms

What is Diabetes in Cats?

Diabetes is an endocrine disorder. The endocrine system features glands that produce and discharge hormones which regulate many bodily functions.

Insulin is one of these hormones. Like the human body, a cat’s body needs insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels. If there is not enough insulin produced by the cat, or if the insulin does not function properly, this leads to abnormal blood sugar levels.

Diabetes can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) which can cause various health problems if left untreated.

Types of Diabetes in Cats

There are two types of diabetes mellitus in cats.

Type 1: Very rare in cats (but common in dogs). Essentially a decrease in the production of insulin leads to high glucose concentrations.

Type 2: The most common form of diabetes in cats. Essentially the body is unable to respond to insulin correctly, resulting in high glucose levels.

Quick FAQs and Answers About Diabetes in Cats

Is one sex more at risk?                                    
Yes, male cats tend to be more prone to this condition.

Risk factors for diabetes in cats?                       
Age, obesity and physical inactivity.

Are certain breeds predisposed to it?                
Yes, Burmese cats.

Is diabetes in cats common?                             
Cases are increasing and is thought to be linked with increasing levels of obesity.

Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Increased appetite
• Increased urination

Other Possible Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Poor hair coat
• Weakness
• Enlarged liver
• Bladder infections
• Collapse

Keep in mind that some or a combination of these symptoms can also be signs of other conditions and diseases. Either way, it’s important to bring them to your veterinarian’s attention.

The main treatment of DM is insulin. Your veterinary team will teach you how to inject the insulin; with time and experience, both you and your cat will adapt to these injections very well.  While there is no cure for feline DM, this disease can be managed fairly well when you work with your veterinary healthcare team. Cats with well-controlled diabetes can live many years of high-quality life.