How to choose the best food for diabetic dogs
Choosing a feed for diabetic dogs is based on choosing a food that allows them to maintain blood glucose at an adequate levelDiabetes affects dogs with an insulin deficiency, which leads to hyperglycemia. This means elevated blood glucose levels can cause serious health problems ranging from loss of appetite and vomiting to epileptic seizures, the development of cataracts, and extreme weakness. The best way to prevent all these symptoms and keep your pet from getting sick is to control the diabetic dog's diet and choose a food specifically designed for their condition.
In this article we want to talk to you about What the best food for diabetic dogs should be like, what components it should contain, and other things to keep in mind to prevent the disease from getting worse. Keep reading this article for more information!
Diabetic dog food: the ingredients
Diabetes in dogs, just like in people, can be of two types. These are type 1 diabetes—or diabetes mellitus, when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin—and type 2 diabetes—when the body isn't able to use insulin properly. In dogs, The most common is type 1 diabetes And, although all breeds are prone to contracting it, there are some that are more likely, such as the Golden Retriever, the German Shepherd, the Poodle, or the Beagle, among others.
Diabetic dog food, therefore, must contain specific ingredients and carefully controlled proportions to minimize blood glucose fluctuations. It is generally recommended that they contain high concentrations of fiber and slow-absorbing carbohydratesAlthough there are other issues to consider, we'll look at this in a specific way.
Diabetes in dogs: High-quality protein
Food for diabetic dogs, and dogs in general, should contain high-quality proteins. These are the foundation of a dog's diet, as well as a cat's. In either case, it is preferable for the proteins to be of animal origin; these are better suited to the dog's body and easier to assimilate. Premium, or top-quality, foods also typically do not contain grains; they are known as grain freeThese contain very limited amounts of carbohydrates, and the fats they contain are suitable for formulating a natural diet—preventing overweight. However, care must be taken to ensure that the amount of the latter is not too high, especially when the dog is obese.
Diabetes in dogs: Sugars
Of course, diabetic dog food must lack sugars in its composition or have a minimal amount. Keep in mind that diabetes is directly related to the synthesis of glucose (sugars), and that sugar cannot be assimilated by the pancreas, resulting in a buildup in the blood and urine. This means it doesn't reach the cells as energy, resulting in a listless dog with a high risk of illness. Make sure the amount of sugar in the dog's food is minimal.
Diabetes in dogs: Fiber
Fibers are essential in diets for diabetic dogs because they help slow down glucose increasesThey act as a buffer, preventing sudden increases in calorie intake, as they reduce the rate at which carbohydrates are broken down, thus delaying the release of glucose into the bloodstream. Therefore, you should opt for foods with high fiber content. Keep in mind that low-cost foods often use large amounts of grains, such as wheat and corn, and contain little fiber. However, remember that fiber in a dog's diet can cause weight loss and decreased appetite, as well as diarrhea or constipation. Therefore, it's best to make the change gradually.
Diabetes in dogs: Cereals
Most grains are generally dispensable in a dog's diet. However, if diabetic dog food includes them, make sure—at least—that they are rice or oats —Other grains are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and can suddenly raise blood glucose levels. These contain a high amount of fiber, so they will be well-balanced with the amount of carbohydrates your pet can eat.
Diabetes in dogs: Carbohydrates and fats
As we said at the beginning of this section, the carbohydrates that a dog with diabetes ingests They must be slowly absorbedThis way, they don't accumulate in your furry friend's body and don't suddenly raise blood glucose levels. Avoid, in any case, foods like potatoes, wheat, corn, or soy. When it comes to fats, keep in mind that they store energy and are converted into sugars when reserves are low. Therefore, be careful with the amount of fat and opt for foods that are low in fat.
Diabetes in Dogs: Vitamins
The most suitable vitamins for dogs with diabetes are the E, C and B6These help reduce blood glucose buildup. Special dog food for diabetics often includes these vitamins.
Other things to consider when buying diabetic dog food
The diet for diabetic dogs or food for diabetic dogs must consider, in any case, the specific needs and health of each petTo do this, you need to consider your dog's weight and the severity of the condition. Based on this, you'll choose one dog food or another. The best dog food for diabetic dogs, apart from what's described above, should prevent hyperglycemia —such as feeds that have high concentrations of fiber and slow-absorbing carbohydrates. However, if the dog also has obesity problems, then you should opt for a food that helps you regain your ideal weightIn this case, the veterinarian will determine the appropriate amount of calories the pet should consume per day and will also prepare the insulin injection schedule that must be strictly followed.
To improve the health of a pet with diabetes, exercise is essential. Exercise is vital for dogs to burn energy and reduce the risk of hyperglycemia. Exercise also improves insulin absorption due to increased blood flow throughout the body.
