November is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, and it is a good time to talk about something many dog and cat owners deal with every day. Dogs and cats can develop diabetes, just like people. When they do, the treat bowl suddenly becomes a lot more complicated.
The short answer is that some diabetic pets can still enjoy a treat. What matters is the ingredient list, the portion, and your veterinarian's guidance. Here is what we want every dog and cat parent to know.
What diabetes means for a dog or cat
Diabetes happens when a pet's body cannot make or use insulin well. Insulin moves sugar from the blood into the body's cells, so when it is not working properly, blood sugar can stay too high.
The condition looks a little different in each species. Many diabetic dogs need insulin and a steady daily routine. Diabetes is more common in older and overweight cats, and some cats do better with diet changes and close veterinary care. Either way, every pet is different, and the plan should come from your vet.
Warning signs worth a vet visit
These signs do not always mean diabetes, but they are a good reason to call your veterinarian:
- Drinking much more water than usual
- Needing to go out or use the litter box more often
- Increased hunger
- Weight loss you cannot explain
- Low energy
- Cloudy eyes, especially in dogs
Catching a problem early gives your vet more options, so do not wait and see.
What to look for in a treat
Treats with added sugar, syrups, starches, or long lists of fillers are worth avoiding for a diabetic pet, and your vet can tell you what fits your pet's plan. A short ingredient list makes that job much easier.
That is one reason we make single-ingredient dog and cat treats. Each one is freeze-dried or dehydrated, with nothing added. Our line includes Chicken Bites, Salmon Bites, Beef Heart, Beef Liver, Turkey Jerky, and Chicken Hearts, and most are made for both dogs and cats. You can read more about why we keep it simple in our posts on single-ingredient dog treats and cat treats.
One honest note: single ingredient does not automatically mean low fat, low calorie, or low carb. Chicken breast, salmon, and organ meats all have different nutrition profiles. That is exactly why your vet should help pick the right one for your pet.
Tips for treating a diabetic pet
- Ask your vet which treats fit your pet's diet before you buy anything.
- Keep portions small, and count treats toward your pet's daily calories.
- Read the label for ingredients, and check calories, fat, and protein when they are listed.
- Keep feeding and medication times the same, as your vet directs.
- Introduce any new treat slowly, and tell your vet if anything changes.
Every pet deserves a little something special
We never want to promise what is right for every pet, and we do not claim our treats treat or manage any condition. We simply want to give dog and cat parents a clear, honest option made with one ingredient.
If your dog or cat has diabetes, talk with your veterinarian about whether one of our treats could fit. Then take a look at what we make, one ingredient at a time.
