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Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment and Costs in the UK

Diabetes mellitus in cats is more common than many owners realise — affecting an estimated 1 in 100–200 cats in the UK. The condition is serious but very manageable with the right treatment and a committed owner. Understanding the symptoms, what treatment involves, and what to expect in terms of costs helps you plan ahead if your cat is diagnosed.

What Is Feline Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus in cats occurs when the pancreas either fails to produce enough insulin (Type 1) or when cells throughout the body become resistant to insulin (Type 2). Type 2 — which parallels human Type 2 diabetes — is by far the most common form in cats and is strongly associated with obesity, a sedentary indoor lifestyle, and high-carbohydrate dry food diets.

Insulin is required to allow glucose (sugar) to enter cells and be used for energy. Without sufficient effective insulin, blood glucose levels rise (hyperglycaemia), the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy, and glucose spills into the urine — triggering excessive drinking and urination as the kidneys attempt to flush out the excess glucose.

Male cats and neutered cats are at higher risk. Burmese cats have a specific genetic predisposition to Type 2 diabetes. Middle-aged to older cats (seven years and above) are most commonly affected. Obesity is the single biggest modifiable risk factor — overweight cats are up to four times more likely to develop diabetes than cats of healthy weight, according to research cited by the PDSA.

Symptoms of Diabetes in Cats

The classic symptoms of diabetes in cats are: increased thirst (polydipsia); increased urination (polyuria), which owners often notice as a fuller litter tray or urinating outside the tray; increased appetite (polyphagia), often accompanied by weight loss despite eating well; and lethargy or reduced activity levels.

As the condition progresses untreated, more serious signs develop. Diabetic neuropathy — weakness and a characteristic 'plantigrade' (flat-footed) gait in the hind legs, where the hocks drop towards the floor — is a distinctive sign of advanced or poorly controlled diabetes in cats. This occurs because high blood glucose damages the peripheral nerves.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening emergency that can occur if diabetes is undiagnosed or poorly managed. Signs include sudden deterioration, vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and a sweet or acetone-like smell on the breath. DKA requires immediate emergency veterinary treatment and intensive care. If you notice these signs in your cat, contact a vet immediately — do not wait.

Diagnosing and Monitoring Feline Diabetes

Diagnosis requires blood and urine tests. A persistently elevated blood glucose level combined with glucose in the urine (glucosuria) confirms diabetes. Because cats can have a stress-induced rise in blood glucose during a vet visit — making a single measurement unreliable — vets may also measure fructosamine, a protein that reflects average blood glucose over the preceding two to three weeks, providing a more reliable picture.

Once treatment is started, regular monitoring is essential to ensure the correct insulin dose and to watch for hypoglycaemia (dangerously low blood sugar), which can occur if too much insulin is given. Home blood glucose monitoring is strongly recommended by most veterinary internists — a small lancet is used to sample blood from the ear or paw pad, and a glucometer gives an immediate reading.

Some practices offer in-clinic glucose curves, where blood samples are taken every one to two hours over a day to map how the cat's glucose levels respond to their insulin dose. As monitoring practices are refined, many diabetic cats can achieve remission — particularly if the condition is caught early and weight is managed aggressively. The PDSA notes that remission is achievable in approximately 25–30% of cats when treated promptly and appropriately.

Treatment Options and What to Expect

Most diabetic cats are treated with twice-daily insulin injections, typically given under the skin of the scruff. The prospect of injecting a cat daily can be daunting for owners, but most cats tolerate the injections well with a gentle technique and positive reinforcement. Vets and nurses will train you in injection technique at diagnosis.

The most commonly prescribed insulins for cats in the UK include ProZinc (protamine zinc insulin, specifically licensed for cats) and Caninsulin (porcine insulin), as well as human insulin preparations such as glargine (Lantus), which some specialists prefer for its association with higher remission rates. Your vet will select the most appropriate insulin for your cat.

Diet plays a crucial role alongside insulin. A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet — often a wet food rather than dry kibble — reduces the glycaemic load and can significantly improve glucose control. Some cats achieve remission on dietary change alone or with minimal insulin. Weight loss in overweight cats is an essential part of the management plan and should be achieved gradually under veterinary supervision to avoid hepatic lipidosis.

Cost of Managing Feline Diabetes in the UK

Managing a diabetic cat is an ongoing financial commitment. Insulin costs approximately £30–£60 per vial (lasting weeks to months depending on dose), syringes or pen needles cost around £5–£15 per month, and a glucometer kit costs approximately £20–£50 upfront with test strips adding £15–£30 per month. Regular monitoring visits — initially monthly, then every three to six months once stable — cost £40–£65 per consultation plus blood test fees of £30–£80.

Total monthly ongoing costs for a well-managed diabetic cat typically range from £50–£120, depending on insulin type and monitoring frequency. Initial diagnostic costs — blood profile, urinalysis, fructosamine — add £100–£250 at diagnosis. If your cat develops DKA, emergency and intensive care can cost £1,000–£3,000.

Pet insurance can help significantly with diabetes management costs, though many policies exclude pre-existing conditions and some have sub-limits on ongoing (chronic) conditions. Review your policy carefully, and if you are considering insuring an undiagnosed cat, act before any symptoms are documented. Under the March 2026 CMA reforms, vets must now provide written estimates for treatments expected to exceed £500, and must publish standard service price lists — giving cat owners far more ability to plan and compare costs.

CompareMyVet at app.comparemyvet.uk helps UK cat owners find local practices that are transparent about their prices. If your cat has been diagnosed with diabetes — or if you want to find a vet who publishes their monitoring and consultation fees — visit app.comparemyvet.uk to compare practices in your area.