Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Feline Acromegaly Welfare Management

Feline acromegaly from a growth-hormone secreting pituitary tumour causes progressive organ enlargement and diabetes, requiring specialist management.

Key Facts

Acromegaly affects a significant proportion of diabetic cats with insulin resistance
Growth hormone excess causes enlargement of organs, joints, and skull over time
Diabetes in affected cats is often insulin-resistant and difficult to manage
Radiation therapy targeting the pituitary tumour can achieve remission in some cases
Regular monitoring for complications including cardiac disease is essential

Welfare Considerations

Acromegaly causes progressive changes including joint enlargement, organ dysfunction, and poorly controlled diabetes that significantly impair quality of life. The underlying pituitary tumour can be treated with radiation therapy in specialist centres, potentially reversing the hormonal excess and improving diabetes control. Recognition of acromegaly as a treatable cause of difficult diabetic control improves welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Consider acromegaly investigation in cats with insulin-resistant diabetes
Seek specialist referral for radiation therapy assessment in confirmed cases
Monitor for cardiac complications in cats with acromegaly