Just like in humans diabetes in cats is a condition that affects the body’s ability to use glucose in the bloodstream for energy. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that allows glucose to be used by cells in the body, without it glucose builds up in the bloodstream resulting in high blood sugar levels as the glucose cannot be used.

Diabetes occurs when the body either does not produce enough Insulin or that the body is insulin resistant, meaning this process does not work as it should.

Insulin can be thought of as a key that unlocks cells to let glucose in, and a diabetic cat doesn’t have enough keys, or the keys it has, become jammed in the lock. This means it isn't able to access all of the energy the body requires.

Cats most commonly suffer from type 2 diabetes, which is caused by issues in the pancreas. All cats can suffer from diabetes but middle/older aged, male, or overweight cats are at higher risk of developing the condition.

Symptoms to look out for include;

If you notice any symptoms it’s important to have your cat seen by their vet as tests will be needed to get a diagnosis, this may include blood or urine tests to confirm what may be causing the symptoms.

Once a diabetes diagnosis has been confirmed your cat’s vet will recommend treatment this is usually daily insulin injections and diet control. They will help teach you how to administer the injections (it may feel daunting at first but it is easy enough once you know how).

Diet and weight control is especially important for diabetic cats, your vet may recommend a specific diet, but generally a diet that is low in carbohydrates is ideal. Marro provides a high protein, low carbohydrate diet that is suitable for cats with diabetes, additionally brewers yeast and cranberries provide a source of fibre, which helps even out glucose spikes.

If your cat has diabetes we’d recommend transitioning to Marro nice and slowly over a week or 2, (it’s usually a good idea to let your vet know that you're planning to change their diet before you start the swap). While making the change it’s important to maintain your routine around feeding times etc as routine plays a big part in managing diabetes long term. It is also key to keep your cat at a healthy weight and activity level as being overweight can make the condition worse.

Providing diabetes is managed as directed by your vet, most cats can live long and happy lives. However, they will require regular monitoring by their vet as sadly this is not the case for all cats.