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My aggressive senior cat has diabetes. Is euthanasia the only option?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | LaPerm | Female | spayed | 16 years and 10 months old | 15 lbs

Our 17 year old female cat has been diagnosed with diabetes, is dehydrated and has not had a bowel movement in three days. Our vet feels that insulin shots are out of the question due to the aggressive nature of our cat, we would not be able to give her shots daily, ,we feel we may have to put her down soon. She has arthritis also, she was successfully treated for hyperthyroidism five years ago.. Any comments would be appreciated, thank you.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on February 24th, 2017

Yes unfortunatley in cases where a diabetic cat is not able to be medicated and maintain hydration, euthanasia is the best option. The fact she has other complicating factors reducing her mobility and causing her discomfort means this may be very soon to prevent suffering. See the following article for information on helping to decide when http://vet.osu.edu/assets/pdf/hospital/companionAnimals/HonoringtheBond/HowDoIKnowWhen.pdf

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on February 8th, 2018
I'm sorry to hear that you're in this difficult position! Diabetes is generally a very treatable disease in cats, provided that you are able to make the recommended diet changes and give daily insulin injections. I do not normally consider this a reason to euthanize the cat, unless the owner feels that treatment is not feasible - either for logistical or financial reasons.

Please let us know if you have specific questions about this - we would be happy to try and help.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Maria DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 20th, 2019
It is never a wrong decision to let an animal go when they have a disease, even a treatable one. Diabetes is extremely difficult, frustrating and a ton of work on everyone's part. Some cats do great, while others don't do well at all. You took into account her quality of life and that is what we have to do when making decisions like this. Her quality was not there and for her you did the right thing. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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