Diabetes in pets is a growing problem for pet owners. Dogs, cats and other pets age at a much faster rate than people. Typically for every human year, your dog or cat ages between 6 to 8 years. As your pets age their nutritional needs change. All pet’s require suitable food to provide an overall balanced diet. Foods containing sugar, salt and excessive fat are much more harmful to pets, and feeding pets snacks and food meant for human consumption is extremely bad for pet health and can lead to diseases like diabetes and even cholesterol.

Most quality ‘complete’ pet foods are manufactured to provide a balanced diet with enough protein, fibre, fats, vitamins, and minerals required for a healthy diet. Occasional pet treats are fine as long as they are produced as treats for pets (NOT human snacks, sweets or candy). As your pets ages, switching to a mature animal feed is recommended (especially dogs and cats), mature complex food can ensure your pets get extra essential nutrients but with reduced fats.

Diabetes is common in pets that are overweight. If your pet/s are over weight, constantly thirsty or drinking, there is a good chance they have developed diabetes. A urine test or blood test by your vet can provide confirmation. The best way to prevent diabetes is to ensure your pets are at a healthy weight and have a healthy diet. It is possible, if caught early to reverse diabetes or manage it with diet, exercise and food. However in many cases where it is not possible your pets will require medication to manage their diabetes, this is usually in the form of tablets however in some cases pets will require insulin injections.