subject: The Truth About Feline Diabetes [print this page] Like humans, cats can commonly develop diabetes. Older and obese cats are more often affected, but any cat can develop the condition. You should know that diabetes in felines can't be cured. However, they can lead a relatively normal life if the disease is managed appropriately.
Causes
Females are more often affected by diabetes than their male counterparts. Veterinarians don't know the exact reason felines develop the condition. However, the risk of developing diabetes is increased due to various conditions. Some of these conditions include obesity, hyperthyroidism, chronic pancreatitis, and Cushing's disease. Certain medications can also increase the risk.
Types
Felines can develop one of two different types of diabetes. These two types include non-insulin-dependent and insulin-dependent. Insulin-dependent cats will need daily injections, while non-insulin dependent cats won't need immediate injections. However, they may develop the need for injections over time..
Diagnosis
The veterinarian will need to perform a physical exam in order to diagnose diabetes. Your veterinarian will also need to perform laboratory tests. These tests will show an increased level of sugar in the urine and blood.
Signs
It is common for cats who develop this condition to experience various symptoms. Some of the most common include weight loss, increased urination, and increased thirst. Cats with this condition are also known to have a poor coat of hair. Other common signs include increased or decreased appetite, lethargy, and depression.
Treatment
Any cats with this condition will have a shorter lifespan if it's left untreated. The most common method of treatment involves insulin injections. There are different types of insulin and different cats may respond to different types. Some cats can effectively be treated via use of oral medications.
Prognosis
As mentioned earlier, there is no cure for diabetes. However, cats with the disease can live a normal and healthy life for many years. Cats may even lose the need to receive insulin injections over time. Losing weight can help in this regard if obesity is an underlying cause.
