My old cat has diabetes. How to tell if she's uncomfortable or in pain?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Callie. She will need to see her veterinarian for an evaluation and likely some laboratory work. There is a common condition in cats known as hyperthyroidism. It frequently causes increased vocalizations. It can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss as well as an increased thirst and urination. This is my first suspicion based on your description of her. Of course, there are other possibilities and this is why she will need to see her veterinarian. I hope this information helps!

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

I'm so sorry to hear that Dominic isn't doing well. Unfortunately, complications from uncontrolled diabetes can be very severe, and it sounds like Dominic is extremely sick. Sometimes cats in ketoacidosis can be stabilized and saved, but it requires intense hospitalization and care, and even then many cats cannot be saved. If Dominic is showing evidence of kidney failure, and your vet is recommending putting him to sleep, it sounds like his chances of improving to a good quality of life are not good. I have to defer to your vet's recommendations since they are familiar with the specifics of Dominic's case - but euthanasia is definitely something that I recommend in cases where the chances of improving are very small and the cat is suffering. It would not be wrong for you to choose this course of action given Dominic's poor prognosis. I'm so very sorry you are going through this. I hope this helps. All the best to you and Dominic.

I would recommend the bloodwork if possible. Many of the symptoms your describe could be due to hyperthyroidism which can often be managed with diet or medication. Renal disease diabetes are also concerns. Speak with your vet to determine what they suspect is most likely and find out if it is possible to test for one thing at a time instead of running a full panel at once. The vet will suggest the best options but often if you explain financial constraints we can work with owners. If unable to do the diagnostic testing then euthanasia is a reasonable option to prevent her from suffering. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

It seems like it is painful for some cats while others don't seem to be in much pain at all. This seems to be fairly similar to people with diabetic neuropathy - some people experience tingling or numbness while others experience pain that can be extreme. Unfortunately it can be difficult to assess pain in our pets, especially cats. If you're worried Spider is painful you could ask your vet about a pain medication trial.

Diabetes could be an issue with your cat, especially if she has lost weight recently. Other diseases to consider include hyperthyroidism, renal failure, and cancer, all which could cause the symptoms you are describing. I would recommend taking your cat to the vet to be examined and have blood work performed. Blood work would go a long way in helping to determine what is going on with Gracie. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Unfortunately this is a really tough disease to treat, even with veterinary care. Your cat would likely need to be on fluids and then start getting regulated on insulin to get his diabetes under control. Until his dehydration and blood sugar is under control he will probably still be lethargic and anorexic. I am sorry you're having to go through this with your cat. I wish there was more I could tell you. Best of luck.