Prognosis for Feline Diabetes

There is no known cure for feline diabetes, but the condition can be managed through diet, exercise and medication. According to veterinarian Dr. Donna Spector, about 70 percent of diabetic cats go into remission.

  1. Types

    • The prognosis for cats with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is best because loss of excess fat often helps cause remission. Cats with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDUM) often can survive but will not go into remission.

    Time Frame

    • Dr. Spector mentions that it used to be normal for cats with either type of feline diabetes to be given two years to live at most, but if the owner is vigilant about care, then the cat can comfortably live out a normal lifespan.

    Complications

    • A feline diabetes prognosis may be complicated if the cat's diabetes was caused by illnesses such as Cushing's syndrome or constant problems with pancreatitis.

    Considerations

    • Prognosis of a long life for diabetic cats is still good for cats that also develop skin, liver or walking problems, provided the owner supervises the cat's diet and insulin injections.

    Warning

    • "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" (Delbert G. Carlson, DVM, et al; 1995) reminds that it possible for a diabetic cat to die of an insulin injection overdose. Symptoms are loss of coordination, uncontrollable shivering or seizures.