Diabetes in cats

Diabetes is well recognised in cats. Genetics, diet and breed play a role in the disease. In Australia and the UK, the Burmese breed are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

Obesity is also a major risk factor.

Symptoms that you may see in a diabetic cat are an increase in appetite, thirst and urination, sometimes combined with weight loss.

Diabetic cats are managed in a similar way to humans with diabetes. In most cases we need to give insulin injections to affected cats. Feeding a recommended high protein and low carbohydrate diet is also extremely important in controlling the disease.

Cats can experience diabetic remission, particularly if well controlled with insulin and on the appropriate diet.