by Erin Yarrobino

Created on: April 19, 2009

Cats are at risk for diabetes just like us if they are overweight. They also have many of the symptoms that we have, and if you notice that the cats have any of these symptoms, or that it is just not acting like itself, a trip to the doctor most likely is necessary.

1. Excessive thirst. Most cats do not touch their water bowl more than once a day, but of hotter days, they naturally would drink more water. You know your cat's water-drinking habit the best, so if you notice it drinking more than usual, take it for a checkup.

2. Unexplained weight loss. If your cat is losing weight, but it is still eating the same amount or food or more than it used to, it may have diabetes. Cats who develop diabetes naturally have excessive hunger as well, so if your cat is following you to the kitchen every time you go there, something must be wrong.

3. Excessive urination. Again, if you see the cat drinking more water, and you also see it going to the bathroon more, it does not automatically mean the cat has diabetes. However, if it is not drinking a whole lot, but it still using the litter box more often, then something must be done.

4. Scratches or wounds on skin that do not heal. It could be that your cat fought with dog or one of the other cats in the house. But it the wound does not heal eventually, it means the cat's sugar levels are abnormally high. This could lead to an infection or an amputation if not treated properly.

5. Fatigue. As I said before in another article, cats naturally have boundless energy. Too much sleeping or lying around is never a good sign. Cats are more awake at night than during the day, so take notice of active it is when you get up in the middle of the night (as most of us do). If you notice that it does not want to play when you dangle a string near them, or if it just looks at you when the catnip mouse is given to them, this is another telltale sign. No cat on earth will ever resist a chance to battle with a catnip mouse. Catnip is cat candy, even when a cat is an adult.

Diabetes usually is more common in male cats because male cats naturally get heavier when they are neutered. However, neutering your cat will not automatically make him overweight. You must give him healthy food and make sure he gets enough exercise. Like us, even if the cat is a senior, the right lifestyle will still keep it healthy. They are depending on us to give them this life.

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