Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My diabetic cat is weak, wobbly, and won't eat. Is it low sugar?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hello I have a diabetic cat who recently has been acting sluggish and has a lost of appetite he also has been wobbling some. I did give him some honey but he refuses to eat. Please help

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 12th, 2017

Poor guy! This could be a number of things when dealing with diabetes. However, given the clinical symptoms you are describing, it could mean that he is receiving too much insulin and his blood glucose may be too low. This seems more likely though sometimes they can also get quite sick from receiving too little insulin and developing a condition called diabetes ketoacidosis. I highly recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible to figure out what is going on so that we can figure out how to help him. In the meantime, you may put a small amount of syrup or even honey in his gums while you wait to have him evaluated. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I'm sorry that your cat is unwell. A few more details may help us point you in the right direction....such as- is your cat receiving insulin....which type, dose and what time of day, what diet is your cat on, when us the last time his blood sugar level was checked and what was the result? Diabetes in cats requires close observation and frequent monitoring by your veterinarian. I usually recommend that a blood glucose level be checked every 1-3 weeks depending on how stable your cat is. This is especially important if your cat is receiving insulin injections. It is hard to know from your description of his symptoms whether his blood sugar level may be too low or too high. The honey may be the opposite of what he needs. The best thing to do in this situation is take him to your vet or to the closest emergency clinic to have his blood sugar level checked. Then, if it is too high or too low, you can get the best advice on what your cat needs. Many owners treat the cat at home for low sugar, but chronically high sugar levels can also cause lethargy, wobbliness, etc.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored