Understanding cat diabetes: symptoms, prevention, and the best diet
28/11/2024
November is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, so we’re here to help you spot the signs, manage their diet, and keep your cat thriving.
What is cat diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus (DM) in cats happens when their body can’t use glucose (sugar) properly due to issues with insulin. This can lead to high blood sugar levels which, if left untreated, can impact their health.
If you’re worried your cat might have DM, it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible so you can access the right treatment to help manage this complicated condition and keep them healthy.
Spotting the symptoms of diabetes mellitus in cats
Common symptoms include:
- Becoming more hungry and/or thirsty
- Urinating more frequently
- Losing noticeable weight
- Lacking energy
- Poor coat condition
- Hindleg weakness
- Other illnesses, such as urinary tract infection (UTI)
If any of these sound familiar, be sure to arrange a vet check-up.
Tips for preventing diabetes mellitus
- Feed them a high quality, complete and balanced diet
- Keep them at a healthy weight: If your cat regularly overindulges, particularly in high-carb foods, then they’re more at risk of developing diabetes mellitus and obesity (which is itself a risk factor for feline diabetes). Puzzle/activity feeders and lickable mats can slow down serial gobblers, and reduce stress and boredom – all big risk factors for overeating.
- Keep them active: sharing in pre-meal play sessions with your cat helps them burn calories, while maintaining a healthy body and mind.
- Keep them well hydrated: Offer plenty of drinking stations around your home as well as access to wet food.
- Regular vet check-ups: Routine health checks are essential for catching the early warning signs of DM
The best diet for managing diabetes mellitus
The biggest factor for controlling your cat’s DM is maintaining a healthy body weight. Feeding your cat measured amounts of a complete and balanced, high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet can help manage their DM and support their general health.
Our 100% natural, protein-rich cat food contains no artificial additives, and is a nutritious, low-carb option, to support your feline friend’s overall health and well-being.
The earlier a diabetic cat is diagnosed, the easier it is to care for them with a healthy diet and regular health check-ups. So, this Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s support our cats with the best care and natural nutrition possible to not just feed their health – but their taste for adventure too!
