Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Welfare: Feline Acromegaly and Diabetes Management

Feline acromegaly, caused by excess growth hormone from a pituitary tumour, is an underdiagnosed cause of insulin-resistant diabetes and has significant welfare implications.

Key Facts

Acromegaly affects up to a quarter of cats with poorly controlled diabetes
Excess growth hormone causes insulin resistance making diabetes management difficult
Clinical signs include enlarged paws, broad facial features, and increased appetite
MRI can diagnose pituitary adenomas, and radiation therapy offers the best outcomes
Without treating the underlying cause, diabetic management remains very difficult

Welfare Considerations

Unrecognised acromegaly causes prolonged poor diabetic control, with associated thirst, lethargy, and potentially organ damage. Diagnosis and specific treatment including radiation therapy significantly improve quality of life and metabolic control. Advances in awareness and diagnostic testing are improving welfare outcomes for affected cats.

What You Can Do

Discuss acromegaly testing with your vet if your diabetic cat is poorly controlled
Support veterinary education on feline acromegaly diagnosis
Consider specialist referral for complex diabetic cats with possible pituitary disease