Diabetes Mellitus
Also called: Feline diabetes, sugar diabetes, DM
- Cats
- Hormonal (endocrine)
- Adult / Senior
Diabetes mellitus occurs when a cat's body cannot properly produce or respond to insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar, leading to persistently high blood glucose. It is a common hormonal disease, most similar to type 2 diabetes in people, and is strongly linked to obesity. With early treatment some cats can even go into remission.
Signs to look for
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased appetite, often with weight loss
- Lethargy
- Walking on the hocks/ankles with hind legs lowered (a sign of diabetic nerve damage)
- Poor coat condition
How a vet diagnoses it
Documenting persistently elevated blood glucose together with clinical signs, while ruling out stress-related high glucose. Typically includes blood glucose, fructosamine (a longer-term marker), and urine glucose; home or continuous glucose monitoring can help distinguish true diabetes from stress.
Treatment
Insulin injections have long been the mainstay; newer oral SGLT2-inhibitor medications are now options for suitable cats. A low-carbohydrate wet-food diet is recommended, with careful weight management. Treatment is a team effort between vet and owner.
Monitoring at home
Blood glucose (curves or continuous monitoring), fructosamine, clinical signs (thirst, appetite, weight), body/muscle condition, and watching for ketones if the cat becomes unwell.
Who tends to get it
Middle-aged to older cats. Risk factors include obesity, male sex, neutering, inactivity, and indoor lifestyle. Obese cats are up to four times more likely to develop diabetes. Burmese cats are at increased risk in Australia.
This library is educational reference only. It is designed to help you learn about health conditions your pet may have been diagnosed with — it does not interpret your pet's symptoms, cannot diagnose, and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Cats and dogs often hide illness well, so signs can be subtle. Any new, persistent, or worsening sign warrants a vet visit.