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My cat is drinking a lot, sleeping more, and has a sweet smell. Diabetes?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 4 years and 5 months old | 18 lbs

My 4-year-old long-haired cat is drinking a lot more water than usual, is sleeping more, and she smells different (a sweet odor). She still gets pretty lively (jumps up onto tall pieces of furniture and runs around like usual), but not for as long as she used to. I can't tell if she has lost weight because she is still very solid. Am I possibly looking at diabetes? The increased water intake has gone on for about 6 weeks. Thanks for your help! I really appreciate it!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Robin Diers, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Hello there. It is very possible that Persephone Jane has diabetes. However there are many other reasons for increased thirst in a cat, including kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or urinary tract infection. I recommend taking her to the veterinarian where she can have bloodwork to determine if she is diabetic or not. Once the cause of her excess thirst is discovered, your veterinarian can develop a treatment plan to help your kitty. Hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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