Burmese cats 'most likely' to develop diabetes

Posted : 20-08-2007

Burmese cats have been found to be three times more likely to develop diabetes than any other pedigree breed of the species. Furthermore, unlike non-pedigree cats, both sexes were found to be equally likely to develop the condition, according to research published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.

The study identified that in non-pedigree cats, males were more likely to develop the condition.

Cats affected by diabetes require daily insulin injections and a special diet; they are also at greater risk of developing other health problems such as urinary tract infections and pancreatic disorders, which may result in owners having to make pet insurance claims.

The research was based on analysis of over 14,000 cats whose owners had taken out private pet insurance as well as members of the Feline Advisory Bureau, which included questions about their pets' diet and weight.

Jennifer McLean was co-credited with the research, she told the Midlothian Advertiser: "If it means people are more aware of this condition, then it is not a bad thing".

The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery publishes papers on feline medication and healthcare.


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