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Owners warned as number of cats with feline diabetes DOUBLES in a year

Generous owners who overfeed their cats are being blamed for a huge surge in feline diabetes that has seen the number DOUBLE in the past year.

The number of cases of with diabetes, often caused by obesity, has sky-rocketed by more than 130%, according to Argos Pet Insurance.

The disease now costs cat owners an average of £1,880 each in vets bills – more than three times as much as a year ago.

Generous owners who overfeed their cats are being blamed for a huge surge in feline diabetes that has seen the number double in the past year.
Fat cats – diabetes in cats is often caused by them being overweight (Pictures: Rex)

Maia Boylla, of Argos Pet Insurance, said: “The fact that the number of cats being treated for diabetes has more than doubled over the last year is a worrying indicator of increased pet obesity in the UK.

“This is a big eye-opener for cat owners, as many probably don’t realise just how much damage can be done from a few too many treats.”

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Diabetes in cats can also be caused by old age and neutering, as well as an inactive lifestyle.

Andrew Moore, resident veterinary consultant for Argos Pet Insurance, said diabete is more common in middle-aged and older cats, while overweight and neutered cats are also at greater risk.

Generous owners who overfeed their cats are being blamed for a huge surge in feline diabetes that has seen the number double in the past year.
Fit & healthy – owners are being urged to take steps to keep cats healthy to minimise the risk of diabetes

He said: “Symptoms of diabetes include increased urination, increased thirst, increased appetite and unexplained weight loss.

“It can be treated with medication or injections, but to minimise the risk of the disease, owners should take steps to keep their cats fit and healthy.”