Diabetes mellitus refers to the inability to produce enough insulin hormone to balance blood sugar The metabolic disease prevalent in an alarming number of cats. The main symptoms of diabetes in cats includes increased thirst and increased urination. Obese cats are more likely to develop diabetes. If left untreated, feline diabetes can lead to weight loss and loss of appetite along with vomiting, dehydration, depression and even problems with motor functions.

It is important to seek medical attention for your cat if diabetes is a concern as it can lead to life-threatening complications. Feline diabetes is similar to type 2 diabetes in humans, in which the body makes insulin but is unable to use it due to the sensitivity to the lower hormone levels.

Causes of feline diabetes aren’t exactly known, but the disease is more prevalent in overweight cats, those who don’t consume a healthy balanced diet, and older cats. Diabetes could also be a side effect to medications such as corticosteroids. Vets consider the following contributing factors for feline diabetes:

1. Weight
Keeping your cat at a healthy weight can influence if your cat gets diabetes. Assess your cats condition comparing muscle mass and body fat. Feeding your cat a healthy diet can help your cat to achieve and maintain the ideal body condition to counteract diabetes.

2. Diet
Feed your cat a diet similar to what their system in nature can handle, meaning a diet higher in protein and lower in carbs is best for cats. Feeding your cat high carbohydrate and a protein depleted diet can increase your cat’s risk for obesity and diabetes. Make sure you talk to your veterinarian and read the ingredients in the food you are serving your cat.

3. Lifestyle
Active playtime is important for your cat. You need to provide sources of environmental enrichment. This will decrease their stress and keep their weight down by having interactive playtime.

4. Corticosteroids
Steroids are used in the management of other diseases in cats. These steroids decreases the effectiveness of the insulin in feline bodies and can lead to diabetes. Be sure to monitor your cat’s health if they are on other medications.

5. Treatments
A diabetes diagnosis is not a death sentence for your feline friend. Treatment of diabetes is helping your cat manage it with medication and lifestyle changes. Cats with diabetes are most often treated with insulin shots. Insulin has to be administered two times a day and requires dedication by you as a cat owner. Insulin shots are administered directly under the skin.

When in doubt, if you notice any signs in your cats that may indicate diabetes, see your veterinarian who will order blood work and a urine sample. The sooner you can get your cat diagnosed, the better for your cat and the better for the chance of a successful treatment.