Diagnosis and Detection

Will diabetes affect my cat’s life expectancy?

With effective treatment and monitoring, your cat with diabetes should have the same life expectancy as a pet without diabetes of the same age. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps pets with diabetes maintain a good quality of life.

Is my cat at risk for diabetes?

Although diabetes has been diagnosed in all ages, genders and breeds of cats and dogs, certain pets are at greater risk. Take the quiz for a risk assessment.

Risk factors in cats

• Obesity
• Age (older cats are more susceptible)
• Neutered males
• Genetics
• Other insulin-resistant disorders or diseases, such as chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormones)
• Physical inactivity
• Indoor lifestyle

Are there warning signs I should be aware of?

Some common signs of diabetes in cats includes:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination — your pet produces more urine per day or has “accidents” outside the litterbox
• Excessive hunger while losing weight
• Lethargy (less active/sleeps more)
• Doesn’t groom
• Thinning, dry and dull fur