How to Diagnose Diabetes in Cats

Feline diabetes occurs in about one out of every 500 cats. If treated properly, cats with diabetes can lead long, healthy lives. If left untreated, feline diabetes can cause blindness, coma, amputation and even death. There are several signs to look for at home to determine if a pet cat has diabetes. The cat must then be taken to a veterinarian for a clinical diagnosis, so treatment can begin.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

  1. Signs at Home

    • 1

      Watch for signs of feline diabetes. These include: depression, lethargy, excessive weight gain or weight loss, increased urination, increased thirst, noticeable increase or decrease in the cat's appetite, weakness and vomiting.

    • 2

      Write down all of the cat's symptoms.

    • 3

      Take the cat to the veterinarian. He or she will ask for a complete history of the cat's symptoms, so any information that has been jotted down will come in handy.

    At the Veterinarian

    • 4

      Allow the vet to perform a thorough physical examination of the cat. He or she will be looking for physical signs that the cat may be suffering from diabetes, including an unhealthy coat, enlarged kidney and liver and dehydration.

    • 5

      Assist the veterinarian in collecting a urine sample. This can occur at the office, or the vet may ask you to collect the sample at home. This is accomplished through special litter that can be tested by the vet for any signs of sugar, which is an indication of diabetes.

    • 6

      Hold the cat while the veterinarian takes a blood sample. This sample will be tested for the glucose level, ketones and sodium.

    • 7

      Work with your veterinarian to establish an eating schedule and, if necessary, discuss whether or not the cat will require insulin.