Diabetes in Cats

Who is at risk?

Anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 cats develops diabetes,1 and according to experts, those numbers are expected to increase. Diabetes has been diagnosed in cats of all ages, both sexes (intact and neutered), and all breeds. It more frequently affects older cats, especially neutered males.

Experts believe feline diabetes results from several different factors. Key risk factors for diabetes in cats include:

  • Genetic tendencies (predisposition)
  • Other insulin-resistant disorders or conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis
    or hyperthyroidism
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Indoor lifestyle
If you feel your cat is at risk for developing diabetes, consider having your pet tested once a year during a regular examination.

 

Reference:
1. Panciera DL, Thomas CB, Eicker SW, Atkins CE. Epizootiologic patterns of diabetes mellitus in cats: 333 cases (1980–1986). J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1990;197(11):1504–1508.

Feline Diabetes
Did you know?

Diabetes is more commonly seen in neutered male cats than in female cats.

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