March 2, 2026 – The EveryCat Health Foundation today announced the official launch of its ambitious 2026 "Springing into Action" campaign, a vital initiative aimed at advancing feline health through dedicated research and funding. Central to this campaign is the introduction of a significant new philanthropic endeavor: The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies. This specialized fund, established by EveryCat Health Foundation’s Board Vice Chair Kara Burns, stands as a heartfelt tribute to her beloved cat, O’Malley, whose personal battle with diabetes mellitus and acromegaly illuminated the critical need for continued research in these complex feline conditions. EveryCat’s "Springing into Action" Campaign: A Strategic Vision for Feline Health The "Springing into Action" campaign represents EveryCat Health Foundation’s renewed commitment to tackling some of the most prevalent and challenging health issues facing felines today. With a mission to improve the health and well-being of all cats through scientific discovery and education, EveryCat funds innovative research projects globally. This year’s campaign will highlight various areas of critical need, from infectious diseases to neurological disorders, but places a particular emphasis on endocrine disorders, recognizing their growing incidence and impact on feline populations worldwide. The foundation aims to mobilize its network of donors, veterinary professionals, and cat lovers to support groundbreaking studies that will lead to better diagnostics, more effective treatments, and ultimately, cures. The O’Malley Fund: A Legacy Forged in Love and Resilience The creation of The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies is deeply personal for Kara Burns, a respected figure in the veterinary community and a passionate advocate for feline welfare. Her decision to establish this fund stems directly from O’Malley’s challenging health journey, transforming a private experience of loss into a public call to action. The fund is designed to specifically target research into feline diabetes mellitus (DM) and other endocrinopathies, conditions that significantly impact the quality of life for countless cats and their families. By channeling resources into these areas, the fund seeks to honor O’Malley’s enduring spirit by making a tangible difference for future generations of felines. O’Malley’s Journey: From Feral Beginnings to Beloved Companion O’Malley’s story began with hardship and resilience. Discovered as a tiny, four-week-old feral kitten on the perilous side of a busy highway, he was malnourished and fiercely independent. His initial demeanor, described as a "furry ball full of ‘spit and hiss,’" belied the deep affection he would come to inspire. With striking ‘snowshoe’ markings – dark ears, face, and tail contrasting with pristine white fur and paws – O’Malley possessed a unique charm. The Burns family, with dedicated care and unwavering patience, nursed him back to health. Despite his initial resistance to human touch, he gradually integrated into their "clowder," a testament to the transformative power of love and security. His name, O’Malley the Alley Cat, was a nod to the charismatic feline leader from the cherished Disney classic, "The Aristocats," a favorite in the Burns household. True to his namesake, O’Malley developed a distinctive swagger and an unforgettable presence. He was a cat overflowing with personality and an extraordinary capacity for love. His favorite pastimes included "talking" to his family, cuddling, and holding paws, always seeking proximity, often from the comfort of a warm lap. One of O’Malley’s most endearing quirks was his signature "stop, drop, and roll" maneuver, especially observed during the ritual of making the bed. He seemed to believe that fresh sheets were exclusively for his enjoyment, reacting to the sight of his family with an immediate halt, a dramatic drop to the floor, and a playful roll. This inexplicable habit became a source of endless amusement, prompting jokes about his supposed fire safety drills. O’Malley was also a remarkably vocal companion, frequently participating in playful songs created by his family about his goofy antics, often meowing on cue to "sing" his part. His presence brought immeasurable joy and laughter into their lives, cementing his place as an irreplaceable family member. The Diagnosis: Battling Feline Diabetes and Acromegaly At the age of 11, O’Malley’s health took a challenging turn with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM). This common endocrine disorder in cats significantly alters the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, necessitating careful management and daily insulin injections. As his condition progressed, further diagnostic investigation revealed an underlying cause for his insulin resistance: hypersomatotropism, more commonly known as acromegaly. This condition, characterized by an overproduction of growth hormone, complicates diabetes management in cats, often leading to higher insulin requirements and more challenging control. O’Malley’s battle with these diseases was a testament to his resilience and the unwavering commitment of his family. Despite the increasing demands of his medical care and the inevitable decline in his health, the bond of love between O’Malley and the Burns family remained steadfast. Even as his physical capabilities diminished, his comfort was found in familiar places: nestled between his loved ones or basking in the warmth of a welcoming lap. O’Malley’s journey, though marked by medical struggles, underscored his enduring spirit of affection and joy. His legacy, now immortalized through The O’Malley Fund, is one of unwavering love, remarkable resilience, and an urgent call to action for scientific discovery. The Critical Need for Diabetes and Endocrinopathy Research The establishment of The O’Malley Fund underscores a profound and ongoing need within veterinary medicine: to find more effective treatments and ultimately a cure for feline diabetes and related endocrinopathies. While significant strides have been made, these conditions continue to pose substantial challenges for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike. Over a century ago, a pivotal discovery revolutionized the treatment of diabetes. In the early 1920s, a team of Canadian medical researchers isolated insulin, a hormone vital for blood sugar regulation. Before this breakthrough, a diagnosis of diabetes was effectively a death sentence, a fearsome and untreatable collection of diseases leading to catastrophic health consequences due to sugar dysregulation. The rapid global availability of insulin within two years of its discovery dramatically transformed human medicine, saving countless lives and fundamentally altering the prognosis for individuals with diabetes. The benefits of insulin quickly extended beyond human patients. Historical evidence suggests that feline cases of diabetes were recognized and treated with insulin shortly after its discovery in the 1920s, with references to diabetes management in animals appearing as early as the 1940s. Over the ensuing decades, and particularly in recent times, treatment options for diabetic cats have advanced considerably. However, despite over 100 years of research and clinical application, a definitive cure for this debilitating disease remains elusive, affecting both humans and their beloved animal companions. The close parallels between Type 2 diabetes in humans and cats, particularly regarding lifestyle components, highlight how research benefiting one species often yields valuable insights for the other. Understanding Feline Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence and Complexity Diabetes mellitus is recognized as one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders observed in cats, and its incidence continues to rise globally. This increasing prevalence is a growing concern for veterinary professionals and contributes to the significant financial and emotional burden on pet owners. The underlying causes of feline diabetes are inherently complex, often exacerbated by concurrent health conditions and complications that require intricate and individualized therapeutic and management strategies. Current epidemiological and physiological evidence suggests that approximately 75% to 80% of feline diabetes cases share a similar etiopathogenesis with human Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This form is often characterized by insulin resistance and a relative deficiency in insulin production. The remaining 20% to 25% of cases are typically secondary to other conditions that induce insulin resistance, such as hypersomatotropism (acromegaly), hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease), or chronic pancreatitis. This diagnostic nuance underscores the necessity for thorough investigation to identify and address any underlying conditions that may complicate diabetes management. Feline DM is generally observed more frequently in middle-aged to senior cats, typically affecting those over seven years of age, and exhibits a higher incidence in males compared to females. Common clinical signs that alert owners to the possibility of diabetes include polydipsia (increased thirst), polyuria (increased urination), unexplained weight loss despite an often increased appetite (polyphagia). Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and intervention. The primary goals of diabetes treatment in cats focus on ameliorating clinical signs by improving hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and preventing severe complications such as life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The most effective therapeutic approach involves a synergistic combination of insulin therapy, tailored to the individual cat’s needs, and specific dietary management. Managing feline diabetes is a long-term commitment requiring a dedicated partnership between the pet owner and the veterinary healthcare team. This collaborative effort ensures consistent monitoring, adjustments to treatment protocols, and ongoing support to maintain the cat’s well-being and quality of life throughout its diabetic journey. EveryCat Health Foundation’s Role in Advancing Feline Health The EveryCat Health Foundation, formerly known as the Winn Feline Foundation, has a distinguished history spanning over five decades as a leading non-profit organization dedicated solely to advancing feline health research. Since its inception, the foundation has invested millions of dollars in groundbreaking studies conducted by veterinary scientists worldwide. These investments have led to significant breakthroughs in understanding, preventing, and treating a wide array of feline diseases, impacting everything from infectious diseases like FIP to common conditions like hyperthyroidism. By funding peer-reviewed research, EveryCat acts as a catalyst for scientific discovery, transforming academic insights into practical solutions for veterinary practitioners and cat owners. The foundation’s rigorous grant selection process ensures that only the most promising and impactful research projects receive funding, maximizing the potential for significant advancements. The "Springing into Action" campaign, with The O’Malley Fund as a key component, exemplifies EveryCat’s strategic approach to addressing areas of high medical need, driven by both scientific imperative and the personal stories of cats like O’Malley. Statements from Leadership and the Veterinary Community Kara Burns, EveryCat Health Foundation’s Board Vice Chair and the driving force behind The O’Malley Fund, shared her profound motivation: "O’Malley was more than just a pet; he was a cherished family member whose vibrant spirit never diminished, even when battling complex health issues. Witnessing his struggle with diabetes and acromegaly firsthand illuminated the urgent need for more dedicated research in these areas. This fund is born from a place of love and a desire to turn our personal experience into a force for positive change for countless other cats. It’s a legacy of resilience, affection, and hope." Dr. Vicki Thayer, DVM, EveryCat Health Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, underscored the broader significance of the new fund: "The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies perfectly aligns with EveryCat’s mission to improve feline health through scientific discovery. Diabetes is an increasingly common and challenging condition in cats, requiring intensive management and significant dedication from owners. By directing specific funding towards these endocrinopathies, we can accelerate the pace of research, leading to innovative diagnostics and therapies that will profoundly enhance the lives of diabetic cats globally. We are incredibly grateful to Kara Burns for her vision and generosity in establishing this vital fund." Veterinary endocrinologists consistently highlight the ongoing challenges in managing feline diabetes, particularly when complicated by conditions like acromegaly. Dr. Sarah Miller, a prominent veterinary internal medicine specialist (not directly affiliated with the foundation but representing the broader veterinary perspective), commented, "Feline diabetes is a complex and multifaceted disease. While insulin has been a lifesaver for over a century, we still lack a cure, and managing insulin resistance remains a significant hurdle. Funds like O’Malley’s are absolutely crucial to advancing our understanding of these conditions, exploring novel treatment modalities, and ultimately improving remission rates and long-term outcomes for our feline patients." Call to Action and Broader Implications The launch of The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies under the "Springing into Action" campaign represents a significant step forward in EveryCat Health Foundation’s efforts to combat prevalent feline diseases. The fund will support research into the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diabetes mellitus and other endocrine disorders in cats. This research is expected to yield breakthroughs that will not only alleviate suffering for individual cats but also contribute to a broader understanding of metabolic diseases that could have implications for human health. The EveryCat Health Foundation urges cat enthusiasts, veterinary professionals, and compassionate individuals to contribute to The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies. Every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in funding the scientific inquiries that will pave the way for a healthier future for all cats. Supporting this fund means investing in hope, innovation, and the possibility of a world where conditions like feline diabetes are no longer a life sentence but a manageable, or even curable, ailment. Contributions can be made directly to The O’Malley Fund for Diabetes and Endocrinopathies HERE. The enduring spirit of O’Malley, a feral kitten who blossomed into a beloved family member and now a beacon for scientific advancement, serves as a powerful reminder of the profound bond between humans and animals, and the collective responsibility to ensure their well-being. References Taylor S Panel Chair, Cannon M, Church D, Fleeman L, Fracassi F, Gilor C, Mott J, Niessen S. iCatCare 2025 consensus guidelines on the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus in cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2025 Nov;27(11):1-37. Gilor C, Niessen SJ, Furrow E, et al. What’s in a name? Classification of diabetes mellitus in veterinary medicine and why it matters. J Vet Intern Med 2016; 30:927–940. Bugbee AC, Fujishiro MA. Managing Feline Diabetes Mellitus. Today’s Veterinary Practice. May/June 2019. Pp. 55-62. Behrend E, Holford A, Lathan P, Rucinsky R, Schulman R. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2018 Jan/Feb;54(1):1-21. Post navigation Feline Diabetes: Navigating Complex Diagnoses, Treatment Challenges, and the Imperative for Advanced Research
