• Feline diabetes should be monitored.cat image by nutech21 from Fotolia.com
  
  Feline diabetes is a fairly common, although rather complicated, disease. Complications generally occur if the disease is not properly treated. Additionally, health problems are linked with feline diabetes; therefore, owners should be aware that a diabetic cat may be experiencing problems with other ailments as well. Consulting a veterinarian is the best way to determine the risks for each individual cat.
  
  

Major Diseases

• Humans deal with serious complications, such as kidney disease, coronary artery disease and blood vessel disease as a result of diabetes. However, cats are rarely afflicted with such diseases, as long as they are receiving the proper care. Felines with diabetes can have a normal lifespan without ever experiencing any complications that frequently are associated with diabetes.
  
  

General Complications

• A cat with untreated or not properly treated diabetes will experience what are considered the four basic signs of the disease, that is weight loss, increased water intake, extremely increased appetite and increased urination. If owners notice any one or a combination of these symptoms the cat should be taken to the vet immediately for a thorough examination.
  
  

Ketoacidosis and Diabetic Neuropathy

• Again, these conditions usually occur only in cats with untreated diabetes. Ketoacidosis is extremely dangerous and often fatal. A number of painful and alarming systems of ketoacidosis include breathing problems, dehydration, general sense of weakness and lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Diabetic neuropathy causes cats to become weak, particularly in the hind legs. Cats with the disease often walk with their hocks (heels) touching the ground and are not able to jump as well as they did, if at all.
  
  

Hypoglycemia

• Cats with diabetes must be given insulin to maintain their blood sugar levels. However, an overdose of insulin can cause fatal hypoglycemia. Signs of the disease include weakness, listlessness, lack of coordination and convulsions. Ultimately, hypoglycemia can lead to coma and even death. Cats with hypoglycemia should be fed their regular food if they are able to swallow. If they cannot, they should not be force fed. Contact a vet immediately if a cat experiencies any signs of hypoglycemia.
  
  

Other Potential Conditions

• Feline diabetes can lead to the development of unhealthy skin and coat. Furthermore, the cats are more susceptible to bacterial infections and liver disease. Although they are not as likely to suffer certain conditions typically associated with diabetes, cats do have their own set of problems, particularly if the disease remains untreated.