Maine Coon Diabetes: Signs, Insulin, and Remission#

We often joke about our Maine Coons being “chonky,” but there is a dark side to that weight. Feline Diabetes is prevalent in the breed, especially in large, neutered males over 15lbs.

When I first learned about cat diabetes, I thought it was a death sentence. It isn’t. In fact, unlike dogs, cats can actually go into remission. With the right diet change, many Maine Coons stop needing insulin altogether.

If you are noticing your cat glued to the water bowl, read this immediately.

The “Big 3” Symptoms#

How do you know if your Maine Coon is diabetic?

Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): I’m not talking about their usual water obsession. I mean draining a bowl dry. If you are refilling the water 3x a day, that is a red flag.
Excessive Urination (Polyuria): Because they drink so much, they flood the litter box. You will find massive clumps of clay litter, sometimes the size of a dinner plate.
Ravenous Hunger but Weight Loss: They eat like a wolf but their spine starts to stick out. Their body can’t process the fuel, so it starves.

Treatment: It’s Not as Scary as You Think#

The vet will prescribe Insulin (usually Lantus or Prozinc).

The Shot: You have to inject them twice a day, 12 hours apart.
The Reality: Maine Coon skin is loose. They barely feel the tiny needle. Atticus wouldn’t even look up from his food bowl if I poked him. It becomes a 5-second routine.

A diabetic care kit for cats including insulin and a glucometer — With daily insulin and a low-carb diet, many Maine Coons enter remission and live normal lives.

The “Remission” Diet#

This is the game-changer. Cats are obligate carnivores. Dry food (even “grain-free”) is often too high in carbohydrates (potatoes, peas) which spikes their blood sugar.

The Fix: Switch to a high-protein, Low Carb Wet Food (under 10% carbs).
My Picks: Fancy Feast Classic Pâté or Tiki Cat After Dark.
The Result: Many cats, once switched to wet food and given insulin for a few months, stabilize. Their pancreas heals. They stop needing shots.

Conclusion#

Diabetes is expensive (insulin costs $100–$300/vial) and requires a strict schedule. But it is manageable. If you catch it early—before they develop neuropathy (walking on their hocks)—your gentle giant can live a full lifespan.

Resources & Further Reading#

Feline Diabetes Message Board (FDMB): The ultimate support group for owners.
CatInfo.org: Dr. Lisa Pierson’s Guide to Feline Diabetes and Diet.