What is the most common cause of insulin resistance in cats?

The most common cause of insulin resistance in cats is obesity. Insulin resistance occurs when cells in the body become less responsive to the hormone insulin, which leads to higher blood glucose levels and can ultimately contribute to diabetes mellitus.

In cats, obesity is a prevalent condition and is often associated with increased levels of free fatty acids, inflammatory cytokines, and hormonal imbalances. These factors can impair insulin signaling pathways, causing reduced uptake of glucose by tissues and contributing to the development of diabetes. As a result, maintaining a healthy body weight is crucial for preventing insulin resistance and developing diabetes in felines.

While other conditions, such as hyperadrenocorticism and hypersomatotropism, can also lead to insulin resistance, they are less common relative to obesity. Hyperadrenocorticism in cats is characterized by excessive cortisol, which can oppose insulin actions, and hypersomatotropism involves excessive growth hormone, contributing to insulin resistance. Hypothyroidism is less relevant in causing insulin resistance in cats compared to the other factors mentioned. Thus, obesity stands out as the primary and most prevalent cause of insulin resistance in this species.