Diabetes in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment & Cost

By the Pawlee Team

Diagnosis cost

£200–£400

Treatment cost

£500–£1500

Ongoing cost

£80–£150 per month

Severity

Serious

Treatable

Manageable

Species

Cats

What is diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus in cats is most commonly Type 2, where the body’s cells become resistant to insulin and the pancreas can’t produce enough to compensate. This causes blood sugar levels to rise dangerously high. Unlike dogs, some cats can achieve diabetic remission with early, aggressive treatment and dietary management. Obesity is the single biggest risk factor, and Burmese cats are genetically predisposed. Without treatment, diabetes leads to weight loss, weakness, and a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.

Symptoms to watch for

See a vet soon

Increased thirst (polydipsia)
Frequent urination (polyuria)
Increased appetite despite weight loss
Lethargy and reduced activity
Poor coat condition or unkempt fur
Walking flat on the hocks (plantigrade stance) – a sign of diabetic neuropathy
Vomiting or loss of appetite (may indicate ketoacidosis – emergency)

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Test	Typical cost
Blood test (glucose and fructosamine levels)	£100–£250
Urinalysis (glucose and ketones)	£40–£80
Blood glucose curve (serial monitoring over 12–24 hours)	£150–£350

Treatment options and costs

Insulin injections (twice daily) with monitoring

£80–£150 per month ongoing

Most diabetic cats need twice-daily insulin injections given at home by the owner. Regular blood glucose monitoring (at home or in the clinic) is essential to adjust the dose. Many owners find the routine manageable once they’re taught the technique.

Dietary management (high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet)

£30–£60 per month

A prescription high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is a critical part of treatment. In some cats, dietary change alone – combined with weight loss – can lead to diabetic remission, especially if caught early. Even cats on insulin benefit from the right diet.

Emergency treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis

£1,000–£3,000

If diabetes goes undiagnosed or becomes uncontrolled, cats can develop ketoacidosis, a life-threatening emergency requiring hospitalisation with intravenous fluids, insulin, and intensive monitoring. This significantly increases the overall cost.

Ongoing costs

Estimated ongoing management cost

£80–£150 per month

monthly

Breeds most at risk

Breed	Risk level
Burmese	High
Russian Blue	Moderate
British Shorthair	Moderate
Maine Coon	Moderate
Ragdoll	Moderate

Does pet insurance cover diabetes?

Diabetes is covered by most lifetime pet insurance policies, which is important because treatment is ongoing and lifelong. The cost of insulin, needles, prescription diet, and regular blood tests adds up significantly over the years. Time-limited or maximum-benefit policies may run out before the condition is managed. Ensure the policy covers ongoing medication and monitoring, not just the initial diagnosis. Pre-existing diabetes will not be covered by a new policy.

Related conditions

Hyperthyroidism Cats Kidney Disease Cats Pancreatitis Dogs

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to treat a diabetic cat in the UK?

Initial diagnosis costs £200–£400. Ongoing treatment – including insulin, needles, prescription diet, and regular blood tests – typically costs £80–£150 per month. Over a cat’s remaining lifetime, total costs can reach £5,000–£15,000 or more. Emergency treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis adds £1,000–£3,000 per episode.

Can diabetic cats go into remission?

Yes – this is one of the key differences between feline and canine diabetes. Up to 30–40% of cats can achieve remission with early, aggressive insulin therapy combined with a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet and weight loss. Remission is most likely when diabetes is caught early and treatment starts promptly. Some cats remain in remission permanently, while others may relapse.

Is it hard to give a cat insulin injections at home?

Most owners are apprehensive at first but find it much easier than expected. The needles are tiny and most cats barely notice the injection, which is given under the skin at the back of the neck. Your vet or veterinary nurse will show you the technique and supervise your first attempts. A consistent routine of feeding followed by injection helps make it straightforward.

What causes diabetes in cats?

Obesity is the biggest risk factor – overweight cats are up to four times more likely to develop diabetes. Other factors include age (most commonly diagnosed in cats over 7), breed (Burmese are genetically predisposed), indoor lifestyle with limited exercise, long-term steroid medication, and male sex (male cats are at higher risk than females).