The Warning Signs: Identifying Diabetes in Dogs and Cats

Diabetes (also known as diabetes mellitus) in dogs and cats is a growing problem, and obesity is one of the leading causes of pet diabetes. It’s estimated that about 1 in 500 dogs and 1-2% of cats over the age of 10 years will develop this disease in their lifetime.

With careful management and top pet parenting though, pet diabetes can often be successfully avoided. Here’s everything you need to know about the warning signs, treatment, and diagnosis of diabetes in dogs and cats.

The link between pet diabetes and obesity

November is National Pet Diabetes Month and with an estimate from veterinarian supplier Animates classifying over 40% of dogs and 30% of cats in New Zealand as obese, it’s clear that pet weight gain is on the rise. Owners need to be extra vigilant if their cat or dog is classified as obese.

While an obese dog or cat might make for some cute Instagram photos, carrying extra weight comes with serious consequence for your animals.

For example, the risk for diabetes in cats increases by four times when your cat is classed as obese. (Find out about average cat weight if you’re not sure where your cat falls.)

And if that wasn’t enough motivation to keep the weight off your pet, an obese cat or dog often also brings with it a plethora of related conditions.

Dog and cat health problems as a result of obesity can include joint and ligament problems, lack of energy, difficulties with breathing, heart and lung problems, high blood pressure, and a generally lower quality of life. To name but a few.

In New Zealand, most overweight and obese dogs are between 5 –13 years. 

MC Gates, S Zito, LC Harvey, A Dale & JK Walker (2019)

Signs of diabetes in dogs and cats

It’s important that pet owners are vigilant about their animals’ health. Keep an eye out for any warning signs that something might not be quite right.

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if your dog or cat might be diabetic, as the signs of diabetes in pets are often quite general. There’s a chance they’ll go unnoticed or misdiagnosed.

When it comes to the signs of diabetes in dogs and cats, here are some things to look out for:

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination. (Notice how often you refill water bowls).
• Weight loss. (Your pet might be eating but dropping the pounds due to their body’s inability to absorb nutrients).
• Cloudy eyes. (This is especially the case in dogs).
• Chronic or recurring infections. (This includes skin infections and urinary infections).

If you notice any of these symptoms of diabetes in your pet, be sure to visit a vet immediately and voice your concerns. Your prompt action could save your pet’s life!

Managing diabetes in pets

Early detection and swift treatment of diabetes in dogs and cats is key to giving your pet the best quality of life.

Just like with people, good medical care and lifestyle management means that diabetic pets can still lead long and healthy lives with careful monitoring and awareness.

The goal of diabetes treatment in pets is to keep blood glucose levels normal and stable. This will typically mean that owners need to feed their pets a specific diet, conduct regular testing on blood glucose levels, and monitor for any changes in symptoms.

Diabetes in dogs and cats alike usually requires treatment with daily insulin injections. However, there may be some rare exceptions where this is not needed.  

Helping your pet avoid diabetes

The phrase ‘prevention is better than cure’ definitely applies when it comes to diabetes in cats and dogs.

It’s completely true that obesity is not the only factor at play when it comes to pet diabetes, and not all cases can be avoided by lifestyle management.

However, you can manage your pets’ risk of developing diabetes by taking their health and weight seriously.

Watch the video below as companion animal vet, Dr Cath Watson shares advice on avoiding those added kilos and shedding them too…

Ask your veterinarian what and how much you should be feeding your obese dog or cat and stick to this at mealtimes.

If your pet begins to lose or gain weight on their current diet, you can adjust it within reason.

Don’t give in to the puppy dog eyes or pitiful meows with another handful of kibble if your pet is a healthy weight! Make sure to account for any scraps or treats when you’re feeding your pet too, as these can often be high in calories.

In addition to managing food (pet food that meets AAFCO guidelines is a great way to start), increasing exercise can also help to improve your pet’s overall health and weight.

With dogs, this might take the form of more walks, runs, or games of fetch.

Cat people will know that their feline friends can be harder to motivate than dogs. However, anything that encourages them to move more can really reap benefits.

Pet diabetes FAQs

We address common questions related to diabetes and its impact on vision and appetite in cats and dogs here…

1. Can diabetes cause blindness in cats?

Yes, it can. Recent studies have shown a potential correlation between diabetes and feline blindness. Just as in humans, uncontrolled diabetes can have severe consequences on the health of cats.

One of the complications that can arise from diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the blood vessels in the eyes.

This may lead to vision impairment or even complete blindness in a cat.

Not all floofballs with diabetes will develop blindness, and the severity of the condition can vary from one meow to another.

Regular veterinary care and proper management of diabetes can help reduce the risk of complications like diabetic retinopathy.

2. Does diabetes cause cataracts in dogs?

Yes. Cataracts are characterised by the clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to impaired vision.

While cataracts can have various causes, studies have shown a clear link between diabetes and the development of cataracts in both humans and dogs.

The excess glucose in the bloodstream, which is a result of uncontrolled diabetes, can accumulate in the lens and lead to cataract formation.

3. Why is my diabetic cat always hungry?

The answer lies in the intricate connection between diabetes, insulin, and appetite.

When a cat has diabetes, it’s not uncommon for their body to struggle with glucose metabolism. As a result, their cells may not be able to access the energy they need, leading to increased hunger.

Insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, also plays a significant role in managing hunger. In the case of diabetic cats, the lack of insulin or the body’s resistance to it can disrupt this delicate balance.

The absence or insufficient amount of insulin prevents glucose from entering the cells, leaving your cat feeling constantly hungry.

More on keeping your pet healthy and happy

The PD Insurance blog has tons of articles on keeping pets happy and healthy. Prepare yourself for the following health-related situations:

• Pet Vaccinations and Schedules in NZ: What You Need to Know
• Puppy Health Care Milestones – The 1st Year
• Emergency Preparedness & Response for Pets
• Mittens Hits a Block – Dealing with Feline Urethral Obstruction
• How Do I Know My Cat’s Leg is Broken?

Planning ahead pre-diabetes in dogs and cats

Getting pet insurance for your dog or cat before any diabetes warning signs appear is important. That way it’s not a pre-existing condition when you take out insurance, which means you won’t be covered for it. Then you can easily get them the treatment they deserve.

A pet plan helps you pay for medical expenses such as unforeseen vet visits, x-rays, prescription medicine, surgery and more.

Depending on the level of cover you choose it can include dental cover too. Check out PD’s dog insurance plans and cat insurance plans for your soft landing!

Click below to get one or more months of free award-winning pet insurance today.