Diabetes Mellitus in Cats: Causes, Symptoms and Management

What is Diabetes Mellitus in Cats?

Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder that affects cats, particularly middle-aged and older felines. It occurs when the body cannot properly produce or respond to the hormone insulin. Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose (sugar) levels by allowing glucose to enter the body’s cells, where it’s converted into energy. When this process is disrupted, blood glucose levels remain elevated, leading to the condition known as diabetes.

In cats, there are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes: This occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. This form is less common in cats.
• Type 2 Diabetes: This occurs when the body’s cells become resistant to insulin’s effects. This is the most common form in cats, accounting for approximately 80-95% of feline diabetes cases.

Understanding diabetes mellitus is essential for cat owners, as early detection and proper management can significantly improve a diabetic cat’s quality of life and may even lead to remission in some cases.

Causes and Risk Factors of Feline Diabetes

Several factors contribute to the development of diabetes in cats. Being aware of these risk factors can help cat owners take preventive measures and recognize early warning signs of the condition.

Primary Risk Factors

The most significant risk factors for feline diabetes include:

• Obesity: Excess weight is the single most important risk factor for diabetes in cats. Obese cats are up to four times more likely to develop diabetes than cats of normal weight.
• Age: Middle-aged and older cats (over 8 years) are at higher risk of developing diabetes.
• Gender: Male cats, particularly neutered males, have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes compared to females.
• Diet: High-carbohydrate diets may contribute to insulin resistance in cats, potentially leading to diabetes.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to obesity and may increase diabetes risk.

Secondary Contributing Factors

Some medical conditions and medications can also increase a cat’s risk of developing diabetes:

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can damage insulin-producing cells.
• Hyperthyroidism: This common endocrine disorder in older cats can complicate diabetes management.
• Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, particularly corticosteroids, can induce insulin resistance.
• Genetics: Some cat breeds, including Burmese cats, appear to have a genetic predisposition to diabetes.

Understanding these risk factors can help cat owners make informed decisions about their pet’s lifestyle and diet to reduce the risk of diabetes development.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats

Early detection of diabetes is crucial for effective management. Cat owners should be vigilant for the following common signs and symptoms:

Classic Signs of Diabetes in Cats

• Increased thirst (polydipsia): Diabetic cats often drink water more frequently and in larger amounts than usual.
• Increased urination (polyuria): Due to excess glucose being filtered by the kidneys, diabetic cats urinate more frequently and in larger volumes.
• Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite: Since the body cannot properly use glucose for energy, it begins breaking down fat and protein stores, resulting in weight loss despite normal or even increased food consumption.
• Increased appetite (polyphagia): As the body’s cells starve for glucose, hunger signals increase, causing many diabetic cats to eat more than usual.

Additional Warning Signs

As diabetes progresses or becomes more severe, cats may exhibit additional symptoms:

• Lethargy: Lack of energy and increased sleeping due to the body’s inability to properly convert food to energy.
• Poor coat condition: The coat may appear dull, thin, or unkempt.
• Weakness in the hind legs: Some diabetic cats develop a plantigrade stance (walking on their hocks rather than their toes) due to diabetic neuropathy.
• Vomiting: In advanced cases, particularly if ketoacidosis develops.
• Depression: General malaise and withdrawal from normal activities.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your cat’s prognosis and quality of life.

Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats

Proper diagnosis of diabetes mellitus in cats requires a comprehensive veterinary examination and specific diagnostic tests. The diagnostic process typically involves the following steps:

Initial Veterinary Examination

When you bring your cat to the veterinarian with suspected diabetes, the vet will conduct a thorough physical examination and take a detailed history, including information about your cat’s symptoms, diet, water consumption, urination habits, weight changes, and overall behavior.

Diagnostic Tests

Several tests are commonly used to diagnose diabetes in cats:

• Blood Glucose Test: Measuring the level of glucose in the blood. Persistent high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) are indicative of diabetes. However, stress can temporarily elevate blood glucose in cats, so a single high reading is not conclusive.
• Urinalysis: Testing for glucose in the urine (glucosuria). The presence of glucose in urine, especially in combination with elevated blood glucose, strongly suggests diabetes.
• Fructosamine Test: This blood test measures glycated proteins and reflects average blood glucose levels over the previous 2-3 weeks, providing a more reliable indicator than a single blood glucose measurement.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Biochemistry Profile: These broader tests help assess overall health and detect any concurrent conditions that might complicate diabetes management.

Ruling Out Other Conditions

Several other conditions can cause symptoms similar to diabetes or can coexist with diabetes, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian may run additional tests to rule out or identify conditions such as:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Kidney disease
• Pancreatitis
• Urinary tract infections
• Liver disease

A comprehensive diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan and improving your cat’s prognosis. Early diagnosis generally leads to better outcomes and may increase the chances of achieving diabetic remission in some cats.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Cats

Managing diabetes in cats typically requires a multi-faceted approach. While there is no cure for feline diabetes, proper treatment can control symptoms, prevent complications, and in some cases, lead to remission. The main components of diabetes management include:

Insulin Therapy

Insulin administration is the cornerstone of treatment for most diabetic cats:

• Insulin Types: Several types of insulin are used in cats. Your veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate type for your cat’s specific needs.
• Administration: Most cats require insulin injections twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart and after meals. The injections are given subcutaneously (under the skin).
• Dosage: The initial insulin dose is determined based on your cat’s weight and condition. This dose may need adjustment based on your cat’s response to treatment.

While many cat owners are initially concerned about giving injections, most become comfortable with the process quickly, and cats typically tolerate the small needles well.

Oral Medications

Recent advances have introduced oral treatment options for certain diabetic cats:

• SGLT2 Inhibitors: Medications like Bexacat (bexagliflozin) and Senvelgo (velagliflozin) work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, allowing it to be excreted in urine.
• Suitable Candidates: These oral treatments are primarily beneficial for cats in the initial stages of diabetes who still produce some insulin but have exhausted beta cells in the pancreas.
• Limitations: Cats who are insulin-dependent, have advanced kidney disease, or are sick at diagnosis are typically not good candidates for oral treatments.

Dietary Management

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing feline diabetes:

• Low-Carbohydrate Diet: Most veterinarians recommend a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet for diabetic cats. Wet food diets are often preferred as they typically contain fewer carbohydrates than dry foods.
• Consistent Feeding Schedule: Feeding your cat at the same times each day helps maintain stable blood glucose levels.
• Weight Management: For overweight cats, a carefully monitored weight loss program may be recommended to improve insulin sensitivity.

Exercise and Weight Management

Physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity and contribute to weight management:

• Regular play sessions to encourage activity
• Interactive toys to stimulate movement
• Controlled weight loss if the cat is overweight

Monitoring and Long-term Management

Successful management of feline diabetes requires ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan as needed:

Blood Glucose Monitoring

Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential for assessing the effectiveness of treatment:

• At-home Monitoring: Many cat owners learn to monitor their cat’s blood glucose at home using a portable glucometer designed for pets.
• Veterinary Check-ups: Regular veterinary examinations, including blood tests to measure glucose and fructosamine levels, are important for monitoring long-term control.

Managing Complications

Diabetic cats may experience various complications that require additional management:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can occur if too much insulin is administered. Signs include weakness, disorientation, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. This is an emergency requiring immediate attention.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary care.
• Concurrent Diseases: Management of other health conditions that may affect diabetes control.

Potential for Remission

Some cats, particularly those diagnosed early and managed with appropriate insulin therapy and a low-carbohydrate diet, may experience remission:

• Remission means the cat maintains normal blood glucose levels without insulin therapy.
• Typically occurs within the first few months of treatment if it’s going to happen.
• Even cats in remission should be monitored regularly, as diabetes can recur.

Living with a Diabetic Cat: Practical Tips

Caring for a diabetic cat requires dedication but can become a manageable part of your routine:

Daily Management Tips

• Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding and insulin administration.
• Keep detailed records of insulin doses, feeding times, and any observed symptoms.
• Learn to recognize signs of high and low blood sugar in your cat.
• Have emergency supplies on hand, including a source of glucose for hypoglycemic episodes.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat shows:

• Signs of hypoglycemia (weakness, disorientation, seizures)
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Marked increase in thirst or urination
• Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
• Lethargy or unusual behavior

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can diabetes in cats be prevented?

A: While not all cases of diabetes can be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce your cat’s risk of developing diabetes.

Q: Is diabetes in cats curable?

A: Diabetes in cats is not curable, but with proper management, some cats can achieve remission, meaning they maintain normal blood glucose levels without insulin therapy. However, even cats in remission require ongoing monitoring as diabetes can recur.

Q: How often will my diabetic cat need to visit the veterinarian?

A: Initially, your cat may need frequent veterinary visits to adjust insulin dosage and monitor response to treatment. Once stabilized, most diabetic cats need check-ups every 3-6 months, though this varies based on individual needs.

Q: What should I do if I miss giving an insulin injection?

A: If you miss an insulin dose, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Generally, if you remember within a few hours, you may be advised to give a reduced dose. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this could cause dangerous hypoglycemia.

Q: Can a diabetic cat eat treats?

A: Treats should be limited for diabetic cats and should be compatible with their dietary needs. Discuss appropriate treat options with your veterinarian, who may recommend specific low-carbohydrate treats or small portions of the cat’s regular diet as treats.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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