Diabetic Pets

Diabetes is a result of the Pancreas not producing Insulin any more. This means that the sugar in the blood CAN’T be used for Energy and you get the resulting signs of Increased Drinking, Urinating, Increased Appetite, Weakness, and some serious secondary metabolic changes ( Keto-Acidosis)

If you are to have your pet diagnosed with Diabetes, Chances are You will be told that there are NO ALTERNATE TREATMENTS that you can consider.

Not necessarily true, read on!

DIETARY CHANGES – This is most important for cats. Recent studies have shown that cats benefit greatly from higher protein, lower carbohydrate diets. These resemble diets that they would eat in the wild. Purina and Hills now make specific feline diabetic diets. You can also purchase canned food that fits this requirement at the grocery store.  Specifically go for the kitten food: an example is Friskies canned tuna which is very high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

The other option is to make a home-made diet:

Home-made Diabetic Cat Food

80% poultry/egg
20% veggies
250mg calcium
1/2 Theragran or One-A-Day, (human vitamin/mineral tablets)
1/2-1 tsp flaxseed oil (or fish oil if the cat will accept it)
500mg taurine

For dogs, diet doesn’t seem to be as beneficial. It is best to feed a balanced diet higher in fiber. The fiber takes longer to be digested, producing a steady stream of sugar released into the blood.

TREADMILL – Regular exercise will decrease the amount of insulin needed.

It will also keep your pet trim. Remember, obese cats are much more likely to develop diabetes.

VANADIUM – It appears to have insulin-like effects, lowering the insulin needed for diabetics.

CHROMIUM – This supplement makes the cells more receptive to taking up blood glucose (sugar). It may help to lower the dose of insulin.

ANTIOXIDANTS – Diabetes affects the other cells in the body, damaging tissue and organ cells. Anti-oxidants limit this damage. Vitamin E and Vitamin C are 2 common  antioxidants I would suggest.

FISH OIL – As a source of omega 3 fatty acids, fish oil may increase insulin sensitivity.

HERBAL THERAPY – A number of herbs are used in diabetes. These include  Gymnema, Bitter Melon, Fenugreek, and Ginseng. These herbs can be found in specific diabetic herbal combinations. Ginseng is the most effective of these herbs. It has been shown to lower blood sugar in people, and is believed to do the same in animals.

TOO MUCH INSULIN – In some cases your pet may decrease his insulin  requirement,
resulting in insulin overdose. This usually happens within an hour of giving the insulin injection. Your pet will be weak, trembling, dazed and may begin to shake or seizure. If you suspect this, immediately give a sugar boost.

Have corn or maple syrup on hand and give 1-2 tablespoons. Rub it on the gums if he can’t swallow, then take him to your veterinarian immediately.

For more information on diabetes in pets and dosage information – CLICK HERE

Trust me, this is a resource that I use very often!  You’ll wonder what you did without it.