Topic of the month: Feline Diabetes

November is known for many things here in the United States…Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, football, cold weather, and falling leaves (for those of us in the Northeast part of the country!). But did you know that November is also National Diabetes Awareness month? Health care and Diabetes advocates have successfully petitioned Washington to name November as the month where the nation unites to promote awareness of what diabetes is, what causes it, how it can be prevented, and what are the treatment options available if a person does develop it. Normally the focus is on diabetes in humans, however, I would like to bring attention to the fact that diabetes has becoming a growing problem among cats as well. Known as feline diabetes, this disease of the endocrine system is characterized by high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. Interestingly, the signs and symptoms of feline diabetes are similar to those seen in humans and, believe it or not, treatment of the disease is similar as well.

32-lb obese cat

Just as in humans, obesity is a common cause of diabetes in cats which is why it is very important for your cat to maintain a healthy weight. According to Lori Huston, a writer for suite101.com, the typical symptoms to watch out for in your cat are:

*increased appetite
*increased thirst
*excessive urination
*weight loss

Should your cat exhibit these symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.

Stay tuned all this month for more interesting information on feline diabetes and what you can do to prevent your cat from developing this disease.

24-lb cat

40-lb cat

33-lb-cat