Clinical Findings

2. Clinical Findings

(see also: Nelson, 2005). Most diabetic cats are older than 7 years of age. The classical symptoms are osmotic polyuria which develops subsequent to hyperglycemia, secondary polydipsia and often polyphagia. A large proportion of diabetic cats are overweight at the time of diagnosis (Figure 2). Loss of body weight, despite hyperphagia, may occur, but cats are usually still overweight at the time of presentation. Diabetic cats are rarely emaciated when they are first presented to veterinarians.

Due to dehydration, some diabetic cats may be lethargic. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to rear limb weakness and plantigrade gait (Figure 3). Rear limb muscle atrophy may be present. Hepatic lipidosis can lead to hepatomegaly. As further complications, diabetic cats may suffer from infection such as stomatitis or cystitis.

Figure 2. Obese (10 kg) 11-year old cat with DM. The risk of diabetes mellitus is increased in obese cats. (Courtesy of: Prof. C. Reusch, Vetsuisse-Faculty University of Zurich).

Figure 3. Neuropathy in a diabetic cat resulting in plantigrade stance. A plantigrade stance is a typical clinical sign in indicating diabetic neuropathy. (Courtesy of: Prof. C. Reusch, Vetsuisse-Faculty University of Zurich).