Feline Diabetes: Seeing the Signs

Feline diabetes symptoms will vary from cat to cat depending upon the type and stage of the disease. This disease can affect cats of any age, either male or female. The prime candidates for diabetes, however, are older males, especially those who are over weight.

Excessive thirst (polydipsia) is a classic sign of the disease as is excessive urination (polyuria). In the early stages, however, your cat may show no symptoms at all.

As diabetes progresses, more symptoms may become apparent. In addition to polyuria and polydipsia, a diabetic cat may experience increased appetite, while at the same time losing weight.

In addition, sick cats may develop lethargy. They may also become weak in the hind legs due to a condition known as diabetic neuropathy.

Untreated cats may experience increasingly more severe symptoms. These may include vomiting, dehydration, and subsequent loss of appetite. Over time, affected cats may develop poor hair coat, secondary infections, and liver disease.

A potentially fatal condition known as ketoacidosis can develop in some cats with diabetes. This may bring on breathing abnormalities, and vomiting and diarrhea.

With proper treatment and disease management, feline diabetes can be controlled. There are two things you can do to help prevent the onset of the disease and reduce its effects in affected cats. First, ensure that your cat gets plenty of exercise, and second, ensure that your cat does not over eat.