Feline Diabetes: Seeing the Signs
Depending upon the type and stage of the disease, feline diabetes symptoms will vary from cat to cat. The prime candidates for diabetes are over weight older males, but cats of either sex and any age may be affected.
Excessive urination and thirst (known as polyuria and polydipsia) are the most obvious early signs of the disease. Initially, your cat may show only these symptoms, or 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 will become lethargic. They also may develop diabetic neuropathy, a condition that causes weakness in the back legs.
More severe symptoms may include loss of appetite, vomiting, and dehydration. Over time, afflicted cats may present with liver disease, secondary infections, and display poor hair coat.
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.
