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My diabetic cat has weak hind legs. Is it diabetic neuropathy?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 9 years and 4 months old | 14 lbs

My 8-year-old neutered cat has developed diabetes. Over the last 3 months, he has been losing coordination in his back legs, weakness, and possible pain as he can only walk about 5 feet and then must lie down. Pees in a meatloaf position. Not acting in pain and is very sweet. Is taking insulin shot well and is on 3 units of Vetsulin twice daily. Why is he weak in his hind legs? What am I doing wrong?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 27th, 2018

Poor Hamm! It's common for diabetic cats to develop a condition called diabetic neuropathy, which is characterized by weakness and lack of coordination in the rear legs. Affected cats will also sometimes stand or walk with their entire hock (the lower part of the leg) flat on the ground, which is called a plantigrade stance.

I would recommend calling your vet or taking Hamm in for a check-up to discuss this issue and confirm that it is due to diabetic neuropathy and not some other problem. If so, many cats with this problem improve once their high blood sugar is under control - so Hamm may need some testing to check his glucose levels and see if his insulin dose needs to be adjusted. Weekly vitamin B12 injections have also been shown to help with this condition in some cats, so this is something that you could discuss with your veterinarian as well.
Vote Icon2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 30th, 2020

    Cats can develop what's called diabetic neuropathy, where their hindlegs become progressively weak. The best thing to do is try to get his diabetes under control as quickly as possible. Here is a link describing the conditon:

    http://www.diabeticcatcare.com/DCCCOK/Neuropathy.htm

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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