Diabetic Neuropathy is the major metabolic neuropathy of cats. The disease is seen in cats with diabetes mellitus. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but it is speculated that there are derangements of the myelin and axons of peripheral nerves. Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) is associated with decreased conduction velocity for peripheral nerves resulting in varying degrees of motor and sensory abnormalities involving the limbs, especially the feet.

The most common clinical symptoms are weak rear legs (walking on the hocks instead of toes) and tail weakness. Muscle wasting is frequently seen as well. Occasionally the neuropathy will progress to involve the front legs.

Diagnosis is based on history and clinical signs as well as ruling out other muscular or skeletal diseases with radiographs and other tests such as electromyography.

Most cats will have improvement of neurologic signs once diabetes is well regulated. If hyperglycemia returns, the neurologic signs will return as well. Treatment of diabetic neuropathies involves treating the diabetes mellitus and prognosis is determined by response to diabetes treatment.