Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My diabetic cat won't eat after diagnosis. What can I do for her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 14 years and 7 months old | 8.2 lbs

My diabetic cat won't eat is found out last weekend she was a diabetic she's 14 years old what can I do she will eat tuna I know it's not good for her but I don't know what else to do

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2017

HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am so sorry about Sweet Pea's diagnosis! I would call your Vet today. A diabetic that won't eat is a big deal. They may want to see her today to check her for the presence of ketones. Ketones are formed when a diabetic breaks down muscles and fat to feed the body. But ketones cause the animal to feel sick and perpetuates the cycle of not eating and not feeling well. If ketones are present, usually hospitalization is required to get rid of the ketones. Another cause of a diabetic not eating is pancreatitis. Some cats become diabetics from chronic pancreatitis. The treatment for that is supportive care. Even if you can't bring her to your Vet today, I still recommend that you talk to them over the phone. Maybe they can prescribe an appetite stimulant, but a minimum they can guide you on how much insulin to give Sweet pea while she isn't eating well. Giving insulin at normal doses when animals aren't eating well can cause the blood sugar to drop too low, which is serious as well. I wish you and Sweet Pea the best!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored