Companion Animals

Cat Diabetes Mellitus - Management and Remission

Feline diabetes mellitus is common in middle-aged cats and increasingly manageable, with dietary and insulin management achieving remission in many cases.

Key Facts

Approximately 1 in 230 cats is diabetic, with Burmese cats at significantly higher risk
High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets improve glycaemic control and increase remission rates
Remission (no longer requiring insulin) is achieved in 25-50% of cats with early dietary management
At-home blood glucose monitoring using continuous glucose monitors improves control
Chronic unmanaged diabetes causes peripheral neuropathy and reduces quality of life

Welfare Considerations

Feline diabetes is manageable and potentially reversible with appropriate diet and insulin treatment. Early diagnosis and dietary management offer the best welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Switch diabetic cats to high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets as first-line management
Work with your vet to monitor blood glucose and adjust insulin dose regularly
Ask your vet about continuous glucose monitor use for improved diabetic management