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Overview of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Diabetic cat

Diabetes - an overview

Diabetes mellitus is a condition where your cat’s body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels due to a problem with the hormone insulin.

Insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps cells absorb glucose from the blood to use for energy. When your cat has diabetes, their body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or their cells become resistant to it, leading to high levels of glucose in the bloodstream.

Diabetes in cats is most similar to Type 2 diabetes in humans, where the pancreas can still make insulin, but the cells in the body have a reduced ability to use it effectively.

Spotting diabetes in your cat: Signs and symptoms:

Recognising the early signs of diabetes in your cat can make a big difference in treatment. While the symptoms can vary from mild to severe, here are some common signs to watch for:

Increased thirst (polydipsia): Your cat may drink more water than usual.

Increased urination (polyuria): Your cat will urinate more frequently as a result of the increased thirst.

Weight loss: Despite having a good appetite, your cat may start losing weight.

Increased appetite (polyphagia): Some diabetic cats may seem hungrier than usual because their bodies are not using food properly for energy.

Other signs can include poor coat condition, weakness in the back legs (diabetic neuropathy), and a pot-bellied appearance from liver enlargement. Cats with unmanaged diabetes are also prone to developing secondary issues, like urinary tract infections.

If diabetes is left untreated, some cats may become very unwell and develop a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate vet care.

Diagnosing diabetes in cats

Diagnosing diabetes

If your vet suspects diabetes based on your cat’s symptoms, they will run blood and urine tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Diabetic cats typically have high glucose levels in both their blood and urine.

Since some cats can have temporarily high blood sugar due to stress, your vet might also perform a fructosamine test, which measures the average blood glucose over the past few weeks, providing a more accurate picture.

Treatment options for diabetic cats

Once your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, managing the condition effectively involves several steps. While the treatment may seem complex at first, most cats adapt well, and with time, the routine becomes easier for both the owner and the cat.

Diet and nutrition
Diet plays a critical role in managing feline diabetes. Many cats with diabetes benefit from low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets, which can help regulate blood sugar levels more effectively. A safe and gradual weight loss plan for overweight cats is also important because fat tissue can contribute to insulin resistance.
Discuss the best diet plan for your cat with your vet. They may recommend prescription diets formulated explicitly for diabetic cats.

Insulin therapy
Most diabetic cats need insulin injections to help control their blood glucose levels. While giving your cat injections might seem daunting, many owners find it quickly becomes part of their routine. Insulin is administered twice a day, usually after meals, and your vet will help you learn how to give the injections safely and comfortably to your cat.

Understanding that every cat is different is important, and finding the correct insulin dose may take time. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure your cat receives the right amount.

Managing diabetes

Managing diabetes involves establishing a consistent daily routine that includes feeding, medication, and monitoring.

Feeding
Feed your cat consistent meals at the same times each day. This helps regulate their blood sugar levels and supports their insulin therapy. Stick to a low-carb, high-protein diet as your vet advises, and avoid high-sugar treats or foods.

Medication
Insulin injections will likely be a core part of your cat’s diabetes management. You’ll need to administer these simultaneously each day—usually after meals. Your vet will show you how to handle insulin, including how to store it and how to measure the correct dosage.

Monitoring blood glucose levels
Regular monitoring is vital to ensure that your cat’s diabetes is well controlled. This will include:
Blood glucose checks using the ear tip blood glucose method
Urine testing to monitor glucose and ketone levels.
Daily checks of your cat’s weight, appetite, and water intake to ensure they are stable.

Partner with your vet

Successfully managing your cat’s diabetes is a team effort between you and your vet. Regular check-ups will allow your vet to adjust the insulin dose as needed, monitor your cat’s overall health, and ensure their treatment is as effective as possible. Your vet will also help you change your cat’s diet or lifestyle, as diabetes management is often dynamic.

While managing diabetes in cats can seem overwhelming at first, many cats lead happy, healthy lives once their diabetes is under control. Always keep the lines of communication open with your vet, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

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JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

 

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377
1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed

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