My cat drinks a lot, is lethargic, and losing weight. Is it diabetes?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 5 months old | 7 lbs
I think my cat may be diabetic. I realized the other day when her water dish was low that when I added more she sat in front of it and drank almost the whole Bowl Within a short time and then looked at me and cried as if she was dying of thirst. She seems to be more lethargic than usual and I haven't noticed her eating very much. Shes dropped down to 7 pounds. I'm very scared should I get her checked out?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 23rd, 2017
Yes, I think that you should have Ember checked out by a vet. While diabetes is not terribly common in cats of her age, it is still possible. Other possible causes of increased thirst include kidney disease, UTI, or behavioral change. Diabetes and kidney disease can easily be screened for with routine bloodwork and urinalysis.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 11th, 2019
Yes, this excessive drinking can be a sign of diabetes, but it can also be a sign of kidney disease. I'd have Manolaki checked out by a vet. Have him seen by a vet first before worrying about weight loss.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 24th, 2017
Increase in drinking and urination can be signs of diabetes. However, they can be signs of other conditions as well. Kidney and liver disease can also cause this. Some kitties will start drinking more, and their blood work remains unchanged. This is most likely due to the fact that it takes A LOT of kidney damage to change the blood work, so the body is trying to keep the kidneys going by increasing the thirst. My personal kitty increased his drinking at around that age, so I monitored his kidneys closely. So- I recommend taking Cassie in for an exam and senior blood work panel (this includes a urinalysis). This will help the veterinarian identify problems earlier and begin treatment. Thanks for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 15th, 2018
Yes, increased thirst and behavior change can be indications of many medical conditions including diabetes, thyroid and kidney disease. I recommend a full vet check and blood panel to investigate further
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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