Even if your pet is on insulin, the diet will still play a key part in managing your pet’s diabetes. Whether it’s prescription, nonprescription or homemade, the correct diet will help control symptoms and ensure that your dog or cat has the best chance of dealing with the disease. A good diet for cats is particularly important, as they can often go into remission after several months given the correct care.

How a diet can help with diabetes

The key to successfully managing your pet’s diabetes is to keep their blood sugar levels as stable and as close to normal as possible. This helps to avoid the side effects associated with diabetes, such as excessive thirst and urination, but can also aid in preventing diabetes-related complications. A carefully managed diet can also ensure that your pet’s weight is under control. Obesity contributes to insulin resistance, meaning your pet will require less insulin once they lose weight.

Diets for diabetic pets

There is no one specific diet that is right for all pets with diabetes, but there are some basic guidelines that are usually adhered to. A healthy diet is one that should provide all the nutrition they need while helping to control their weight (both obesity and being underweight can be problematic). Prescriptions diets are available, but diabetes can also be managed well on a home-prepared diet. Your vet will recommend the best option for your dog or cat.

Diets for dogs–the best diet for diabetic dogs is one that’s high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Fiber will assist in weight loss, and the complex carbohydrates help provide a controlled release of glucose into the bloodstream. A low-fat diet will also be necessary if your dog is suffering from weight issues.

Diets for cats–unlike with dogs, a diet for diabetic cats should contain no carbohydrates if possible. The ideal diet for cats is one that is low in fat, low in carbohydrates and high in quality protein sources. This usually means avoiding dry food.

Consistent feeding – Your pet should be fed the same amounts of food each day so that no changes to insulin are required. It is also important to feed your pet at fixed times as this avoids fluctuations in glucose levels, and so that it can be timed when the insulin injection will be most effective.

Treats–one thing owners might find difficult to do is to stop feeding their pet treats throughout the day. Not only will this cause unpredictable spikes in their blood sugar levels, but can cause them to gain weight. Many treats also include ingredients that are undesirable for diabetic pets, such as sugars and high levels of carbohydrates.