Etiology of Feline Diabetes in Cats

Other causes of hyperglycemia

Mild hyperglycaemia is seen in cats with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroid cats also have an increased demand for insulin due to increased insulin metabolism.

Hyperglycaemia may be seen in cats under severe stress. These cats may have impaired insulin secreting ability, predisposing them to hyperglycaemia if insulin antagonism develops. They can eventually become permanently diabetic.

Hyperglycaemia can also be encountered in Cushing’s syndrome( hyperadrenocorticism - quite uncommon in cats); reversal of the cortisol excess may prevent the development of Diabetes mellitus.