Understanding Feline Diabetes
Recognizing the signs and helping your cat live a healthy life
Diabetes mellitus is a common condition in cats, particularly those who are middle-aged to older, overweight, or inactive. Though a diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first, many cats with diabetes go on to live comfortable, happy lives—especially when it's caught early and managed well.
What Is Feline Diabetes?
Feline diabetes occurs when your cat’s body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't respond to insulin properly. Insulin is the hormone that helps move sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream into the cells, where it’s used for energy.
Without enough effective insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, while the cells remain starved for fuel—leading to the signs we commonly associate with diabetes.
What Symptoms Should I Watch For?
Cats are experts at hiding illness, so it’s important to be on the lookout for subtle changes. The most common signs of diabetes include:
Increased thirst (you may notice your cat at the water bowl more often)
Increased urination (larger, wetter clumps in the litter box)
Increased appetite (they act like they’re starving)
Weight loss, despite eating more
Lethargy or weakness in the hind legs (from a condition called diabetic neuropathy)
These changes often creep in gradually, which is why it’s so important to schedule regular wellness visits and keep an eye on your cat’s litter box, appetite, and weight.
Why Early Detection Matters
The earlier diabetes is caught, the better the chances of managing it effectively—and in some cases, even reversing it. Some cats go into remission with early treatment, especially when they are transitioned to a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet and started on insulin therapy promptly (please note: dogs with diabetes do not have a chance to go into remission).
Without treatment, though, diabetes can lead to dangerous complications like dehydration, ketoacidosis, and nerve damage.
Next Steps
If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your cat, reach out to us. We’ll perform a physical exam, bloodwork, and a urinalysis to confirm the diagnosis and start building a care plan that works for your family.
Your cat’s health starts with awareness.
If you’re seeing changes in thirst, appetite, or weight, don’t wait—early care makes all the difference.
