Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disease in cats, caused by insulin resistance and a relative deficiency of insulin. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, but with proper management, many cats live happy and healthy lives — and some even go into remission.
At Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care (PVESC), our board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialists partner with you and your family veterinarian to diagnose, treat, and manage feline diabetes using advanced diagnostics and a tailored treatment plan.
Understanding Feline Diabetes
- Normal blood glucose: 70–120 mg/dl
- Diabetic cats: often >350 mg/dl
- Treatment goal: 60–300 mg/dl with an average <250 mg/dl
With insulin therapy, diet adjustments, and monitoring, cats can achieve stable blood sugar, improved clinical signs (normal thirst, urination, appetite, stable weight), and reduced risk of complications.
Insulin Therapy for Cats
Insulin injections are the cornerstone of feline diabetes management.
- Administration: Most cats tolerate insulin shots extremely well, and owners quickly become comfortable giving injections at home.
- Types of insulin: Different preparations exist; your veterinarian will prescribe the most effective option for your cat.
- Syringes: Special U-40 insulin syringes are typically required to ensure safe and accurate dosing.
Nutrition & the Diabetic Cat
Diet plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar.
- Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets are generally recommended.
- Consistent feeding schedules help stabilize glucose levels.
- Weight management is crucial: overweight cats are at higher risk and may respond better to therapy once at a healthy weight.
Some cats that respond well to diet changes and insulin may enter diabetic remission, where insulin injections are no longer required — though monitoring must continue.
Monitoring Your Cat’s Diabetes
Ongoing monitoring helps track your cat’s progress and catch problems early:
- Blood glucose checks: Home glucose meters calibrated for cats can be used, or blood curves can be done at the hospital.
- Urine glucose/ketone strips: Can give useful information but are less accurate than blood testing.
- Clinical signs: Keep an eye on thirst, urination, appetite, and weight.
Potential Complications
Diabetes can cause serious health issues if uncontrolled:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening complication requiring emergency care. Signs include vomiting, lethargy, dehydration, and loss of appetite.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Can occur if too much insulin is given. Symptoms include weakness, disorientation, tremors, or seizures. Always follow dosage instructions carefully.
- Chronic infections: Diabetic cats are more prone to skin, urinary tract, and dental infections.
Our Approach at PVESC
- Specialist care: Our internal medicine team brings advanced expertise in diagnosing and managing endocrine diseases.
- Collaborative care: We partner with your primary veterinarian to ensure a seamless treatment plan.
- Individualized plans: Every cat is unique; insulin type, dosing schedule, diet, and monitoring are tailored to your pet’s needs.
- Ongoing support: Diabetes is a long-term condition. We provide continued follow-ups, adjustments, and support to help you manage at home.
When to Seek Veterinary Help Immediately
Contact your veterinarian or PVESC right away if your diabetic cat shows:
- Severe lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or loss of appetite
- Rapid breathing or dehydration
- Seizures or collapse
These may be signs of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis and require emergency care.
Helping Your Cat Live Well with Diabetes
With insulin therapy, diet management, regular monitoring, and close veterinary guidance, most cats with diabetes can enjoy years of good quality life. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, from diagnosis to long-term management.