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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?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

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.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    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.

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