Could Weight Loss and Excessive Thirst Be Signs of Feline Diabetes?

December 3rd, 2025

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Has your furry friend been drinking more water than usual? Is there noticeable weight loss despite a good or even increased appetite? These are often warning signs of feline diabetes, a common but serious condition in cats. Our team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital has put together a guide to help you understand the symptoms of diabetes, the causes, and the treatment options, ensuring your feline companion can live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

What Is Feline Diabetes?

Feline diabetes occurs when a cat’s body is unable to properly produce or use insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Here is a look at the types of diabetes that can affect cats:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The pancreas is damaged and does not produce enough insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: The body produces enough insulin but cannot use it effectively (insulin resistance).

When insulin doesn’t work as it should, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy, leading to serious complications.

What Are the Causes of Feline Diabetes?

Genetic factors and conditions, such as pancreatitis, can negatively impact the pancreas, leading to low insulin levels and type 1 diabetes. This chronic condition does not have a cure, meaning your cat will require treatment for life.

Like in humans, type 2 feline diabetes, which is more common in cats, can result from obesity, which increases the risk of insulin resistance. Additionally, cats on long-term steroids are at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can often go into remission with treatment and weight loss, meaning your cat will start responding to insulin and naturally regulate blood sugar levels once again.

What Are the Symptoms of Feline Diabetes?

Aside from excessive thirst and weight loss, the following are the most common symptoms of feline diabetes:

• Excessive urination
• Increased hunger
• Tiredness, lethargy, or excessive sleep
• Withdrawal and reduced playfulness
• A dull coat, dandruff, or reduced grooming
• Weaker hind legs

These symptoms don’t always mean your cat has diabetes. However, it’s important to visit All About Cats Veterinary Hospital for a diagnosis. The earlier a problem is addressed, the better the long-term outcomes for your furry companion.

How Is Feline Diabetes Treated?

Cats with diabetes can often lead healthy, fulfilling lives with treatment. We may recommend a prescription diet to address your feline companion’s health needs or to help shed those extra pounds. Switching to a low-carb, high-protein diet can often reduce insulin resistance and may even lead to remission. We may also prescribe daily insulin injections, which most pet parents can easily learn to administer at home.

Our team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital may recommend more frequent visits to ensure your cat’s treatment is working and make adjustments as needed. We are here to support you, guide you, answer your questions, and ensure you are comfortable caring for your furry companion.

Diabetes Care Near Me in Kirkland, WA

If your cat is experiencing warning signs of diabetes, don’t wait. Contact All About Cats Veterinary Hospital to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated team will evaluate your furry companion’s unique needs and recommend the most conservative treatment options for long-term health and wellness. You can always count on us for exceptional care for your feline friend because, after all, we are all about cats!