Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment and Diet

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when a cat's body cannot effectively regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. This usually happens because the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, or the body cannot properly respond to the insulin that is produced.²

Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the body's cells, where it is used for energy. When this process doesn't work properly, glucose builds up in the blood, resulting in a range of symptoms and health complications.²

While any cat can develop diabetes, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood, including^:2

• Obesity or excess body weight
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Increasing age
• Indoor-only living
• Certain breeds, including Burmese cats
• Underlying medical conditions such as pancreatitis or acromegaly

Recognising the early signs of diabetes is one of the most important things cat owners can do. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve long-term outcomes and may increase the likelihood of diabetic remission.¹

The most common signs include²:

• Increased thirst
• Drinking more water than usual
• Increased urination
• Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
• Increased hunger
• Lethargy or reduced energy levels
• Poor coat quality
• Changes in behaviour or activity levels (some cats may appear less active, sleep more than usual, or struggle to jump onto furniture).

One distinctive sign of feline diabetes is a plantigrade stance, where a cat walks with its hind legs lowered toward the ground. This occurs as a result of diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage associated with diabetes.²
 

Without treatment, diabetes can progress and lead to serious complications. Signs of advanced or poorly controlled diabetes may include:¹

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Weakness
• Mental dullness or confusion

These signs may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention¹. If you notice any signs of diabetes in your cat, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Veterinarians diagnose diabetes using a combination of:²

• Clinical signs and medical history
• Physical examination
• Blood glucose testing
• Urine testing
• Screening for underlying health conditions

Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin sooner, helping improve outcomes and quality of life.

Although there is currently no cure for diabetes in cats, most cats respond very well to treatment and can enjoy an excellent quality of life.¹ Treatment plans are tailored to each individual cat and typically include:

Insulin Therapy

Some diabetic cats require insulin injections to help control blood glucose levels. Although injections may sound intimidating, insulin needles are very small and most cats tolerate them well. Your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate insulin type and dosage for your cat.¹

Oral Diabetes Medications

New oral medications are now available for cats diagnosed with diabetes. These treatments allow cats to be managed without insulin injections and have expanded the options available for feline diabetes management.³ If you are wondering about treating your diabetic cat without insulin, it’s worth a discussion with your veterinarian.

Ongoing Monitoring

Successful diabetic management relies on regular monitoring, which may include:¹

• Blood glucose and ketone monitoring
• Urine testing
• Home monitoring programs
• Routine veterinary check-ups

Regular monitoring helps ensure treatment remains effective and allows adjustments when needed.

Diet plays a vital role in managing diabetes. Most veterinarians recommend diets that are¹:

• Low in carbohydrates
• High in protein
• Consistent from day to day
• Appropriate for maintaining a healthy body weight

Wet food is often recommended because it is generally lower in carbohydrates and higher in moisture. However, some diabetic cats can do well on selected low-carbohydrate dry foods.¹ The most appropriate diet depends on your cat's individual needs and should be discussed with your veterinarian.

For overweight cats, gradual weight loss can significantly improve blood glucose control and may support diabetic remission.¹ Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most effective strategies for long-term diabetes management.

The outlook for diabetic cats is often very positive when the condition is diagnosed early and managed appropriately. Many diabetic cats:¹

• Maintain an excellent quality of life
• Enjoy a normal or near-normal lifespan
• Respond well to treatment
• May achieve diabetic remission with good glucose control

However, untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications including diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic neuropathy. Cats with other underlying health conditions may require additional management, but many still do very well with ongoing veterinary care.

Managing diabetes requires a partnership between you, your veterinarian and your cat. With early diagnosis, consistent treatment, appropriate nutrition and regular monitoring, many diabetic cats continue to enjoy active and comfortable lives for years after diagnosis.¹

If you notice increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss or any other signs of diabetes, book an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.