Many cat owners are surprised to learn that diabetes is fairly common in cats—especially as they get older, gain weight, or become less active. But because cats are masters at hiding illness, the early signs often go unnoticed. By the time it becomes obvious, their blood sugar may already be dangerously out of balance.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we frequently see feline patients who’ve been acting “a little off” for a while—only to discover through bloodwork that they’re diabetic. Catching the signs early can make a huge difference in your cat’s long-term health and quality of life.
Drinking More Water? That’s A Clue—But Not The Only One
Increased thirst is a hallmark symptom of feline diabetes, but it’s not always dramatic. Some cats simply start visiting the water bowl more often or linger there longer. Unless you’re keeping close tabs, it’s easy to brush this off—especially if you have a multi-pet household.
Other subtle signs to watch for include:
- More frequent urination (especially clumps in the litter box)
- Gradual weight loss, even if appetite is normal or increased
- Greasy, unkempt fur, especially along the back and flanks
- Lethargy or less interest in play
- Weakness in the hind legs, sometimes causing them to walk flat-footed
These changes often happen slowly, so they’re easy to attribute to aging. But in many cases, they’re early indicators of a metabolic problem like diabetes.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we encourage cat parents to bring in their feline friends for a checkup if something feels “just a little off.” You know your cat best—and even subtle shifts matter.
The Overlap Between Obesity And Diabetes In Cats
One of the most significant risk factors for feline diabetes is excess weight. Extra fat tissue can affect how insulin works in the body, leading to insulin resistance—just like in humans. Indoor cats with free access to food and limited exercise are especially at risk.
We know conversations about pet weight can feel awkward, but we approach it with compassion, not judgment. Our team at Renfrew Animal Hospital is here to help you make gradual, sustainable changes that benefit your cat’s overall health—not just their waistline.
Why Litter Box Habits Deserve A Second Look
If you’re scooping the litter box more often—or noticing urine clumps that seem unusually large—it’s time to pay attention. Excessive urination is one of the earliest and most consistent signs of feline diabetes.
Cats with uncontrolled diabetes can’t properly process glucose, so the excess sugar spills into their urine, drawing water with it. This leads to more frequent peeing and more water drinking to compensate. It’s a cycle that often goes unrecognized until something more serious—like a urinary tract infection or sudden weight loss—pushes you to the vet.
If you’ve noticed a change in your cat’s litter box behavior, it’s worth booking a visit. Renfrew Animal Hospital can perform simple urine and blood tests to check for early signs of diabetes and rule out other concerns like kidney issues or infections.
Good News: Feline Diabetes Is Treatable
While diabetes can sound scary, it’s a manageable condition when caught early. With the right treatment plan—which may include insulin, diet changes, and regular monitoring—many diabetic cats live long, happy lives.
In some cases, especially when caught early, diabetes can even go into remission, particularly if weight loss and blood sugar control are achieved quickly. This makes early detection even more valuable.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we tailor diabetic care to each individual cat’s needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re new to insulin injections or just navigating food transitions, we walk you through every step with patience and support.
Trust Your Gut—And Your Vet
If something feels different about your cat—even if it’s not dramatic—it’s worth looking into. Cats rarely show illness the way dogs do, and diabetes is one of those sneaky conditions that benefits greatly from early action.
Not sure if it’s time for a vet visit? Just call Renfrew Animal Hospital at (778) 737-1600 and we’ll help you decide whether your concerns warrant a checkup. When it comes to your cat’s health, small signs often lead to important answers.
