Why are older cats more likely to have diabetes?
At greatest risk are neutered male cats over 10 years of age and over 15 pounds in weight. One possible reason that diabetes is more common in old cats is that, quite simply, they have been exposed to potential causes longer. How can I prevent diabetes in my older cats?
What are the signs of diabetes in cats?
Early signs of diabetes may be subtle and mild — weight loss, increased hunger and thirst are examples. Blood and urine tests are necessary to diagnose the disease and most cats (once diagnosed and treated appropriately) live very normal lives. Diabetes develops in about 1 in 100-200 cats 1.
How old was my diabetic cat when he died?
I have now had 2 cats that were diabetic. Both at the age of 8. My first diabetic cat lived to be 16 & had insulin shots twice a day. I just lost my second diabetic cat Monday at the age of 13. He also received shots twice a day. I have 13 years now of dealing with diabetic cats & hope I never have to do this again.
What kind of diabetes can a male cat have?
Pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, medications such as megestrol acetate (Megace), and some corticosteroids all have the potential to cause or mimic diabetes in a cat. Obesity is a predisposing factor for all cats, and Burmese cats may have a genetic predisposition. Male cats have twice the risk of females.
I have now had 2 cats that were diabetic. Both at the age of 8. My first diabetic cat lived to be 16 & had insulin shots twice a day. I just lost my second diabetic cat Monday at the age of 13. He also received shots twice a day. I have 13 years now of dealing with diabetic cats & hope I never have to do this again.
Can a cat be asymptomatic of kidney enlargement?
Compare top pet insurance plans. Kidney enlargement can cause a variety of symptoms, although it is possible for the kidneys to be enlarged and the cat to be asymptomatic. If the kidney is very enlarged, it may be possible to feel or see the swollen area.
Is it normal for a cat to be diabetic?
When an older cat is presented to the veterinarian with the common symptoms of drinking lots of water, urinating tons and losing weight, a diagnosis of feline diabetes can actually be good news. It’s often better news than kidney failure or liver failure in many cases. If your cat seems very thirsty, this is not normal.
What does it mean when your cat has hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia in Cats. The term hyperglycemia refers to higher than normal levels of glucose in the blood. A simple carbohydrate sugar that circulates in the blood, glucose is a major source of energy for the body, of which normal levels range between 75-120mg.