National Pet Diabetes Month: Raising Awareness

November is National Pet Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness among cat owners and veterinarians about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes in cats. Diabetes interferes with insulin production and metabolism, preventing food from being converted into energy. This results in excess sugar in the bloodstream, leading to a range of health issues, from lethargy to chronic infections. 

To help ensure your cat lives a long and healthy life, we’re outlining the risk factors, early warning signs, and treatment options for feline diabetes. 

Risk Factors for Diabetes 

Feline diabetes affects approximately 1 in 230 cats in the U.S. Several factors can increase your cat’s risk: 

• Age: Cats over 6 years are at higher risk. 

• Weight: Obesity significantly raises the risk of diabetes in cats. 

• Physical inactivity: Cats that have little physical activity are at a higher risk.  

• Gender: Male cats are more likely to develop feline diabetes than females. 

• Long-term Medications: Certain medications, particularly corticosteroids, can increase diabetes risk. 

Signs of Diabetes 

The American Veterinary Medical Association has identified several early warning signs of diabetes. If you notice any of these behaviors in your pet, please contact us: 

• Excessive thirst  

• Increased urination 

• Unexplained weight loss  

• Increased appetite 

Diagnosis and Treatment for Diabetes 

If we suspect your cat has diabetes, we will conduct a baseline blood test and urinalysis. Additional tests may be recommended to rule out other medical conditions, and additional blood testing may be needed to confirm a diabetes diagnosis. 

Once diagnosed, we will collaborate with you to determine the best treatment plan to monitor your cat’s blood sugar levels and maintain them within a healthy range. Every case is unique, and our team is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and support you need to make informed decisions for your cherished pet. 

We are honored to help keep cats in our community thriving. If you have concerns about your cat’s health or need to schedule a wellness checkup, our team at Downtown Toronto Cat Clinic is here to help! Book an appointment or call us at (416) 479-0142 today.