Go to a clinic immediately if
- A diabetic cat is profoundly weak, vomiting, uncoordinated, trembling, having a seizure or refusing food
- Trembling, disorientation, profound weakness or seizure after insulin may indicate dangerously low blood glucose
Possible signs
- Increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite appetite, weakness or an unusual flat-footed hind-limb stance
- Large urine clumps, a poorly groomed coat and a progressively flat-footed hind-limb stance can develop gradually
What it is
In diabetes mellitus, the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it effectively, so glucose accumulates in blood while cells lack usable energy. Cats commonly develop a type 2-like form; obesity, age, inactivity and some medicines increase risk. Poorly controlled disease can cause dehydration and ketoacidosis, while treatment can lower blood sugar dangerously.
What to expect at the veterinarian
Diagnosis matches clinical signs with persistent glucose elevation in blood and urine. Stress can temporarily raise a cat’s blood glucose, so fructosamine and tests for concurrent disease may be needed. An individual plan may include insulin or another medicine in selected patients, nutrition, weight management and home or clinic monitoring. Doses are adjusted to results and must not be changed without direction.
Sources
- Guideline or consensus statement. Feline Diabetes