Managing diabetes mellitus in dogs requires a careful balance between insulin injections and dietary nutrients, especially sugars, fats, and proteins. Although each dog's dietary needs may vary, certain principles hold true for all diabetic dogs. In this guide, we'll explore the basics of dietary management for diabetic dogs, helping you provide the best nutrition for your furry friend's well-being.
1. The Importance of Food Appeal and Regularity
For successful dietary management, it's essential that your pet enjoys its food and eats it reliably. In most diabetic dogs, the excessive appetite characteristic of the disease ensures they eat consistently. However, after achieving regulation, maintaining a dependable eating schedule becomes crucial. Insulin is typically given after meals, so it's vital that your pet looks forward to eating their food.
2. Quality and Quantity for a Healthy Body Condition
To maintain a good body condition, your dog's diet should provide the right balance of nutrients to promote muscle and healthy body fat. Some diabetic dogs may be thin, while others might be overweight. Tailoring the diet to your dog's individual needs is key, rather than adhering rigidly to specific dietary rules.
3. The Ultimate Goal: Two Similar Meals a Day
Ideally, you should feed your dog two similar meals daily, spaced approximately 12 hours apart. Treats should be minimized, making up less than 10% of the total nutrients for the day. Insulin is administered within an hour of each meal, and sticking to this schedule as regularly as possible helps maintain diabetic regulation.
4. Treats: Small and Low in Carbohydrates
Treats can be a sneaky source of additional calories and carbohydrates. While some people like to offer treats after insulin injections or blood sampling, it's essential to keep track of the calorie intake from treats and adjust meal amounts accordingly. Ideally, treats should be small and low in carbohydrates. High-fiber vegetable bits usually fit the bill.
5. The Fiber Factor
Fiber can be either soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel in the bowel, potentially softening the stool and raising post-meal blood sugar levels. On the other hand, insoluble fiber bulks up the stool without contributing calories, aiding weight loss. The ideal fiber content in the diet depends on your dog's weight – overweight dogs benefit from higher fiber diets, while average-weight dogs do well with a moderate amount of fiber.
6. High Digestibility Diets: Not Ideal for Diabetic Dogs
Diets designed for easy digestion and absorption might be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs but can lead to higher blood glucose levels after eating. For diabetic dogs, these diets may not be the best choice.
7. Low-Fat Considerations
Elevated triglyceride levels in the bloodstream can accompany diabetes. If pancreatitis is believed to have contributed to the dog's diabetes, fat restriction might be necessary. However, fat-restricted diets may not be suitable for very thin diabetic dogs.
8. Other Concepts and Tips
- If your dog has another medical condition requiring a specific diet, prioritize that diet over diabetic management.
- Reputable foods that pass AAFCO feeding trials generally do not require additional nutritional supplements.
- Fixed formula foods are preferred over open formula foods for diabetic dogs.
Dietary management plays a vital role in successfully regulating diabetes mellitus in dogs. By focusing on your dog's individual needs, balancing nutrient intake, and adhering to a regular feeding schedule, you can optimize their well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance in selecting the most appropriate food for your diabetic dog, and remember, with proper nutrition and care, your furry friend can lead a happy and healthy life with diabetes.
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