Feline diabetes happens. As much as we love our cat(s), the first step to helping them live their best life really is becoming educated.
Diabetes happens in roughly 1 in every 50 cats. Understanding feline diabetes, the symptoms and how you can help your cat can make all the difference.
Understanding Feline Diabetes
Healthy Weight/Activity – Cat obesity occurs. By offering a healthy diet and keeping your cat active, you are giving your cat the best chance at avoiding diabetes. Find the right diet depending on your cat’s needs and playing with your cat daily are big steps. Keep your cat healthy and engaged!
Diabetes Symptoms – When it comes to changes with your cat, it is important to always pay attention. Changes can be very gradual and it will take a diligence in noticing symptoms sooner rather than later.
Diabetic symptoms include an increased appetite/thirst, increased urination, weight loss, lethargy, increased sleep/laying about and vision problems. If your cat is suffering from any of these, it is important to contact your vet immediately.
Treatment – It is so vital that as a cat owner, we never ignore a symptom or change. Your cat can’t tell you they are hurting, so its up to you to pay attention! Diabetes Mellitus does not have a cure. Yet, it is important to remember that your cat can still live a full life with proper management. Daily insulin injections, a healthy diet, activity and regular follow-ups to test blood sugar are all a must!
Regular vet care and being aware of your cat’s habits are so important when it comes to an early diagnosis! Your cat will thank you!
Lynda Cook says
Never knew about this, thanks for the heads up!!
Elizabeth Matthiesen says
I didn’t even know that 1 in 50 cats gets diabetes. I must mention this to my son who does have a cat. Thanks for this post Kristen.
kathy downey says
diabetes in cats/dogs seems to be more cases every year
Cheryl says
Hope they find a cure for this not only for the kitties but the humans 🙁
Anne Taylor says
Thank you very much for this post! I didn’t know this was even possible. I’ll now be watching our cats like a hawk!
AD says
I don’t own a cat and did not grow up around animals; I am constantly surprised by illnesses and diseases animals can get (which are so similar to humans). Thank you for this information!
Rebecca H says
I had no idea about this. Thanks for the info, I will let my cat loving family know!
Melinda L. says
I didn’t realize cats get diabetes. Thanks for the info, it’s always good to be well informed
Cass A says
Very interesting article. I really didn’t know that cats had this condition.
Jo-Anne Pfoh says
my son is a type 1 diabetic and has been since he was 12. Slash is a bit overweight because she was spayed while it heat and it messed her metabolism right up, but now she is just a piggy. she has food issues and gorges because she was on the street for months before she was rescued. I love her dearly