Back to Disease DictionaryEndocrine

Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

High blood sugar from insufficient insulin production or effect. Common in obese cats, but remission is possible with proper management.

Vet Supervised

Symptoms

  • Increased thirst/urination
  • Weight loss despite increased appetite
  • Hind limb weakness (diabetic neuropathy)
  • Poor coat quality

Causes

  • Obesity
  • Pancreatitis
  • Long-term steroid use
  • Genetic predisposition

Diagnosis

1

Blood glucose measurement

2

Fructosamine test

3

Urinalysis (glycosuria)

4

Pancreatic evaluation

Treatment

  • Insulin injections
  • Dietary management (high protein, low carbohydrate)
  • Weight management
  • Blood glucose monitoring

Prognosis

With early proper treatment, approximately 30-40% of cats can achieve insulin independence (remission).

Severity: Medium

Prevention

  • Obesity prevention
  • High-quality diet
  • Regular blood tests

Commonly Affected Breeds

Epidemiology

Age Range

Most common over 7 years

Related Articles

CatsMe

Sii pronto ad agire nel momento in cui senti che qualcosa non va

Stai leggendo questo perché la salute del tuo gatto ti sta davvero a cuore. Con CatsMe, puoi avviare un controllo sanitario con IA nell'istante in cui nasce la preoccupazione.