If you think your cat might have diabetes, speak to your vet. They’ll be able to do a few tests to see how likely it is, including urine samples and blood tests to see if sugar levels are high.
Cats can have high glucose levels when stressed, such as during a vet trip. Your vet may need to perform an additional blood test called fructosamine. This acts as a marker of blood glucose over the previous few weeks. They may also want to take glucose measurements over the course of a day.
Treatment options
There are two main diabetes treatment options that are often used together to get the best results.
Insulin injections
Most cats with diabetes will need insulin injections once or twice a day, usually just after they eat. Your vet will show you how to use the injections, usually in the scruff of their neck.
Routine is important, with meals and injections given at the same time each day where possible. There are different types of injections, so you can discuss with your vet which option would be best for your cat.
When controlled with insulin injections, your cat shouldn’t have any symptoms of diabetes, and if caught early enough, can even become non-diabetic.
Diet
Diabetic cats need a special diet to make sure they keep their weight down and their glucose levels controlled. Your vet will be able to advise you of the best steps to take.