What to Do When Your Diabetic Cat Stops Eating: A Vet’s Guide
Cat Health

What to Do When Your Diabetic Cat Stops Eating: A Vet’s Guide

Caring for a diabetic cat comes with its own set of challenges, and one of the most concerning issues pet owners might face is when their diabetic cat is not eating. A cat’s appetite is closely tied to its overall health, and for a cat with diabetes, not eating can lead to serious complications.

If you’re dealing with a diabetic cat that isn’t eating, here’s what you need to know and what steps you can take to help.

Understanding the Importance of Eating for Diabetic Cats

Cats with diabetes require a consistent intake of food to manage their blood sugar levels effectively. Food helps regulate glucose levels, and when a diabetic cat refuses to eat, it can cause their blood sugar to drop too low (hypoglycemia) or become too high (hyperglycemia), both of which can be dangerous. Therefore, it’s important to monitor your cat’s eating habits closely.

Possible Reasons Why a Diabetic Cat Might Stop Eating

There are several reasons why your diabetic cat may not be eating:

  1. Cats often stop eating when they feel unwell or are in pain. Conditions such as dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, or infections can cause a loss of appetite.
  2. Changes in the environment, such as moving to a new home, the introduction of a new pet, or a change in routine, can stress your cat, leading to a lack of appetite.
  3. Some medications, including insulin or other treatments for diabetes, might cause side effects that reduce your cat’s appetite.
  4. Cats can be particular about their food. A sudden change in their diet or a dislike of the current food might lead to a refusal to eat.
  5. If your cat’s diabetes is not well-managed, they might experience complications such as ketoacidosis, which can cause nausea and a lack of appetite.

Cat Pancreatitis and Its Impact on Appetite

One serious condition that can lead to a diabetic cat not eating is pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays a crucial role in digestion and insulin production.

In cats, pancreatitis can be acute (sudden) or chronic (ongoing) and is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be vague. A cat with pancreatitis may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, lethargy, and a significant loss of appetite.

For diabetic cats, pancreatitis is particularly concerning because the pancreas is responsible for producing insulin. Inflammation of the pancreas can disrupt insulin production and make it harder to manage your cat’s diabetes.

If your cat is showing signs of pancreatitis and is not eating, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Treatment typically involves managing pain, providing supportive care, and closely monitoring blood glucose levels.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Cats

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in diabetic cats, particularly when they stop eating. DKA happens when the body starts breaking down fat for energy due to a lack of glucose, leading to the production of ketones.

High levels of ketones in the blood make it acidic, which can result in severe illness.

Signs of DKA in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration, and a fruity odor on the breath. If your diabetic cat is not eating and exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Treatment for DKA typically involves intravenous fluids, electrolytes, insulin therapy, and close monitoring in a veterinary hospital.

diabetic cat not eating

What to Do If Your Diabetic Cat Is Not Eating

As a veterinarian, I frequently see cases of sick diabetic cats that have stopped eating, and this can be a serious concern. When a diabetic cat refuses food, I usually advise pet owners not to administer insulin at that time, as it can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar.

Here are some steps you can take:

Consult Your Veterinarian

The first and most important step is to contact your veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause of your cat’s loss of appetite and suggest appropriate treatment. They may perform tests to check for infections, dental issues, pancreatitis, or complications related to diabetes.

Check for Signs of Illness

Look for other signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss. These symptoms, along with a lack of appetite, can indicate a more serious health problem that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Try Different Foods

Offering a variety of foods might tempt your cat to eat. You can try warming the food slightly, as this can make it more appealing. Wet food is often more enticing to cats than dry kibble, and it also has the added benefit of increasing your cat’s water intake. Make sure any new food is suitable for diabetic cats and that it aligns with their dietary needs.

Reduce Stress

If stress is the cause of your cat’s loss of appetite, try to create a calm and stable environment. Ensure your cat has a quiet place to eat and stick to a regular feeding schedule.

Use An Appetite Stimulant

In some cases, giving an appetite stimulant can help. If the vet has checked your cat and there is no evidence of illness, this is an option to consider.  

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your diabetic cat has not eaten for more than 24 hours, or if they show signs of hypoglycemia (such as weakness, seizures, or collapse), seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Prolonged lack of food can lead to life-threatening conditions in diabetic cats, so it’s important to act swiftly.

Veterinarian-Recommended Diets for Diabetic Cats

As a veterinarian, I often recommend specific diets to help manage diabetes in my feline patients. These diets are formulated to stabilize blood sugar levels and are lower in carbohydrates. Here are some that I frequently suggest:

Prescription Diets

Royal Canin Glycobalance – A prescription wet and dry food formulated to help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic cats.

Hill’s Prescription Diet m/d – A high-protein, low-carb diet designed to support glucose and weight management in cats with diabetes.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DM (Diabetes Management) – A specially formulated diet rich in protein and low in carbohydrates to help control blood sugar levels in diabetic cats.

Non-prescription Diets

Fancy Feast – Try the get the chunky, classic, roasted or flaked varieties. Avoid marinated, medleys, gravies and sliced varieties.

9Lives – Pate only.

Sheba – Pate only.

IAMS – Many varieties are low in carbs

Wellness – Complete Health line is low in carbs.

diabetic cat not eating

Final Thoughts on Your Diabetic Cat Not Eating

A diabetic cat not eating is a situation that requires prompt attention. By understanding the potential causes, including conditions like pancreatitis and DKA, and taking immediate action, you can help ensure your cat stays healthy and happy. Regular communication with your veterinarian, combined with careful monitoring of your cat’s health, will go a long way in managing their diabetes effectively.

If your cat is struggling with diabetes, remember that you’re not alone—many resources and veterinary professionals are available to support you in providing the best care possible for your feline friend.

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