Feline diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a common condition in cats. It occurs when the body’s insulin doesn’t balance levels of glucose properly. This can be because the cat isn’t producing enough insulin or when the body doesn’t use the produced insulin properly. Feline diabetes commonly affects older and obese cats, but younger ones can get it too. It can affect any breed although male cats get diabetes more than females.
Cause
There is no exact known cause of feline diabetes. However, certain characteristics can increase the risk factor. As mentioned earlier, obesity is one of the most common factors. Pancreatic diseases, hormonal imbalances, and genetics can also play a role in your cat getting feline diabetes. Some medications can even bring about the condition.
Type
There are two different types of feline diabetes. They are non-insulin-dependent and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Cats with the insulin-dependent type will require immediate insulin injections upon diagnosis. Non-insulin dependent feline diabetes may not require regular treatment at first, but the cat will likely need regular shots in the future to control the condition.
Symptoms
Cats afflicted with feline diabetes will show few signs in the early stages. As the condition worsens, your cat may suffer from secondary bacterial infections and liver disease. This may lead to symptoms such as increased appetite, increased urination, and a rough coat of hair. Your cat may also lose some weight and appear lethargic. A disorder referred to neuropathy can also weaken the cat’s hind legs.
Diagnosis
If left untreated, feline diabetes will likely cause death. Diagnosis is based largely on the symptoms mentioned above. Lab tests will also show excessively high levels of sugar in the urine and blood. The veterinarian will also carry out a physical examination.
Treatment
After a diagnosis of feline diabetes, your cat will need immediate treatment. Some cats can control the condition by oral medication and a special diet. However, most cats will need insulin shots one or two times every day. Also, the amount of insulin that your cat needs may fluctuate periodically, which necessitates a change in the insulin dose. Therefore, it’s very important to have regular veterinarian visits if your cat has this condition.
Some cats with feline diabetes may stop needing insulin for a while because their pancreas will secrete enough insulin. If the condition was brought on by obesity, it may even go away if the cat loses weight. Although feline diabetes is normally incurable, it can be treated so that your cat can lead a normal life.