Feline Diabetes: What Every Cat Owner Needs to Know
Diabetes isn’t just a human disease. Cats can get it too. In fact, feline diabetes is increasingly common, especially in older or overweight cats. While dogs and cats can both develop diabetes, the way we diagnose, treat, and manage the disease in cats is unique.
At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa, we help pet parents understand this condition, catch it early, and treat it effectively because with the right care, many diabetic cats can live long, happy lives. And in some cases, they may even go into remission.
Signs of Diabetes in Cats
The signs of feline diabetes can be subtle and are often mistaken for other conditions. Watch for:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss despite a good (or ravenous) appetite
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Weakness in the back legs (plantigrade stance)
- Vomiting or changes in appetite
- Unkempt or greasy coat
If your cat is over 7 years old, overweight, or showing any of these signs, it’s time to talk to your vet.
How We Diagnose Diabetes
Diabetes is typically diagnosed through:
- Bloodwork showing elevated blood glucose levels
- Urinalysis showing glucose in the urine (glucosuria) and possibly ketones
- Fructosamine test, which gives a longer-term picture of blood sugar control
It’s important to rule out other causes of high blood sugar, such as stress hyperglycemia or concurrent illness, before confirming the diagnosis.
Treatment Approach for Diabetic Cats
While diabetes is a lifelong condition, it can be managed—and sometimes reversed—with proper care. There are now more options than ever, making treatment easier for both pets and their people.
Insulin Injections (Traditional Treatment)
Twice-daily insulin injections have long been the gold standard for managing feline diabetes. At PetMed of Key West, we often recommend glargine (Lantus) insulin, which studies show may increase the chance of diabetic remission when used early and consistently.
Once-Daily Oral Medications
Two new FDA-approved oral options are now available for cats only—and they’re game-changers for many pet families:
- Bexacat (bexagliflozin):A once-daily flavored tablet that lowers blood sugar by helping the body excrete excess glucose through urine.
- Senvelgo (velagliflozin):A once-daily oral liquid that works similarly, approved for use in newly diagnosed stable diabetic cats.
These medications are only appropriate for certain cats—they cannot be used in cats who are underweight, dehydrated, or experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). But when used early, they may increase the chances of remission.
Diabetic Remission: Yes, It’s Possible
Some cats—especially those treated promptly with glargine insulin or oral medications like Bexacat or Senvelgo—can go into remission, meaning they no longer need medication. This is more likely when the disease is caught early, blood sugar is well-controlled, and dietary changes are made to support weight loss and stability.
Nutrition Matters
A low-carbohydrate, high-protein prescription diet plays a key role in managing feline diabetes. At-home monitoring, consistent feeding schedules, and weight management are all critical to success.
How We Help at PetMed of Key West
Our team works with you to create a custom treatment plan based on your cat’s overall health, lifestyle, and your comfort level with various treatment options. We’ll walk you through:
- How to administer insulin or oral meds
- How and when to monitor blood sugar (either at home or in-clinic)
- Adjusting diet and tracking progress
- Watching for signs of hypoglycemia or diabetic complications
Don’t Wait—Early Treatment Saves Lives
Feline diabetes is manageable, and for some cats, even reversible—but early diagnosis is key. If you’ve noticed changes in your cat’s thirst, weight, or energy level, let’s check things out together. Call PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic today to schedule an exam or diabetic screening for your cat. We’re here to help every step of the way.