Mary Allen
Diabetes in cats is a metabolic disease that causes four-legged friends to constantly struggle with high blood sugar levels. You can find out here which cats are particularly at risk and what the symptoms of the disease are.
Diabetes in Cats: Possible Causes
In addition to the risk of hereditary predispositions, certain cat breeds can also be more likely to be affected by diabetes than others. For example, one of the endangered breeds is the Burmese cat. Overweight cats are more at risk than normal-weight cats, and diabetes is more common in neutered cats and cats over the age of six.
Incorrect feeding, for example with food containing sugar, can also promote the disease. In addition, problems with the pancreas and other endocrine glands, as well as the administration of various medications can be the cause of diabetes in cats. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your cat, you should consult a veterinarian.
Feline Diabetes Symptoms: These Are the Signs to Look Out For
Diabetes in cats often goes undetected for a long time, as the disease initially only manifests itself through weak symptoms. Therefore, be sensitive to even small changes that you notice in your cat’s behavior. Drinking more water and frequent urination, for example, can indicate an elevated blood sugar level.
A dull, shaggy coat, fatigue, and lethargy can also occur in the animal. Cats with diabetes often have food cravings while still losing weight. Some velvet paws show hind leg weakness and difficult wound healing. It becomes dangerous if you discover the following symptoms in your cat:
Acute Symptoms in Which You Should Immediately Consult a Veterinarian
In the event of life-threatening changes in blood sugar levels, the cat must be treated immediately by a veterinarian. Signs of this can include marked apathy, vomiting, and confusion. Caution: Your cat may be at risk of dehydration. You can recognize this by dry mucous membranes and with a simple test: Form a fold of skin on your cat with your fingers. If it doesn’t straighten out immediately after letting go, the cat is very likely to have dehydrated. In the case of low blood sugar, restlessness, muscle tremors, cramps and paralysis can also occur.