How to Feed your Cat with Diabetes: Making Sure Your Diabetic Cat Eats Right

 can commercial food products for cats meet the needs of all cats? 

Cats with diabetes want to keep blood sugar levels stable in order to manage their disease; finding the right balance between protein and carbs, between eating too much and too little can be tricky.

Cats are, by nature, meat eaters and need protein

Cats, unlike their canine counterparts, are by and large obligate carnivores. This means that they are generally unable to digest proteins other than those of animal origin, and they certainly have little or no ability to metabolize carbohydrates. In the wild, this is not an issue: cats find a kill, eat it, and go hunting for more when they’re hungry again. But at home, this means that we need to provide a diet that is highly protein-focused and low in carbohydrates. 

 Cats aren’t good at breaking down carbohydrates 

 While commercial cat food has gotten better, in terms of nutrition, there are still some shortcomings of which you need to be aware, perhaps the most important being an excess of carbohydrates. High amounts of any carbohydrate can have negative effects on your cat's blood sugar levels, even if it isn't directly derived from sugar. The bottom line is this: commercial diets for diabetic cats are often too rich in carbohydrates and should not be fed to your furry friend. 

Focus on high-quality wet cat food with wholesome ingredients and flavors

Cats are designed to eat meat but your diabetic cat should be eating mostly high-quality wet food that is low in added sugar and fat, which pet owners or the cats themselves might find irresistible. This doesn't necessarily mean you need to be buying the most expensive food on the shelf, but if you want to choose a brand that tastes good and is still going to benefit your cat, then it's time to head back to the pet store with your wallet in hand. 

Make sure your cat eats enough 

The best way to approach feeding a diabetic cat is by coaxing him to eat as much of the recommended amount as possible. Chat with your vet about what types and brands of food he prefers, and place them in multiple locations around the house to encourage your cat to eat throughout the day. You can also try adding small portions of table food in with the prescription diet, but monitor his intake carefully to make sure that he's not eating too much. And finally, if he gets hungry enough, he might accidentally eat a little extra too.

Feeding a diabetic cat can be a challenge, but it is possible. 

Feeding a cat with diabetes is a challenge. But, with all the right information, it's one that can be overcome. Cats with diabetes will require their owners to make a few adjustments to how they feed them—they will have to learn how much to feed, as well as how and when. Adjustments in feeding may also need to made from time to time, and changes in diet should be monitored closely. But with the right approach and the right attitude, most cats can be fed successfully for years.

Try this? 

Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Dm St/Ox Diabetes Management Wet Cat Food 20 X 85g (10 Chicken And 10 Beef) For Adult Cats Aged 1+ Years With Diabetes, High Protein And Low Carbohydrate