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Hormonales

Feline acromegaly

Excess growth hormone in cats, almost always caused by a pituitary tumour. It leads to abnormal growth of bones and organs, and diabetes that is difficult to control.

Severe🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • Diabetes that is poorly controlled with normal insulin doses
  • Enlargement of the head, paws and jaw
  • Weight gain or increased body size
  • Drinking and urinating a lot
  • Heart and breathing problems over time

Causes

A tumour (almost always benign) of the pituitary gland that produces excess growth hormone. It affects middle-aged to older cats.

Diagnosis

Suspected when diabetes is resistant to treatment. Confirmed with specific hormonal blood tests and brain imaging.

Treatment

Treatment of the tumour (radiotherapy or surgery, depending on the case) and management of the diabetes. It is a complex condition that requires close monitoring.

Prevention

Not preventable.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your diabetic cat remains poorly controlled despite increasing insulin, or if you notice its head or paws growing.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.