Ways To Prevent Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes mellitus is extremely common in housecats. Taking care of a cat with diabetes is very costly and time-consuming, so it’s best to prevent the disease before it develops.

While its causes are unknown, there are many ways to prevent feline diabetes and give your cat a healthier life.

Check the carbs in your cat food

Before feeding your cat, look at the nutrition facts and make sure it isn’t too high in carbohydrates. Look out for ingredients like wheat, soy, and corn, because they have all been associated with feline diabetes. Dry kibble is usually healthier than wet cat food, so try to stick to an all-kibble diet, or maybe mix the two together.

Look for quality ingredients, not “by-products”

Feeding your cat quality meat will have a much better effect on its health than inferior meats. Beef, lamb, chicken, and fish are all part of a healthy feline diet. However, don’t give your cat too much human food! It’s ok to slide some leftover grilled salmon or shrimp into your cat’s bowl, but avoid giving it fried or breaded foods.

Keep your cat hydrated

You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. What you can do, however, is make sure your cat has a steady supply of water throughout the day. Keep a couple of water bowls around the house so that your cat is reminded to drink as it passes them.

Don’t give your cat sugar!

Human foods in general, unless pure meat or vegetables, are harmful to cats. Sugary and processed foods can cause cats to become overweight, which is a risk factor for diabetes, just like in humans.

Feed your cat twice a day

Usually, one can of cat food can make two solid meals for a cat and is plenty to get it through the day. If your cat lives mostly outdoors and gets plenty of exercise, it may be alright to feed it a bit more.

Encourage play time

If your cat is sedentary, try pulling a string for it to chase or even take it for a walk like you would a dog. Exercise not only improves the production of insulin, but it can also keep your cat’s weight down, which helps it avoid diabetes.

Your cat may be exhibiting symptoms of feline diabetes if it urinates more frequently and drinks or eats more than usual. If you are worried that your cat has diabetes, take it to the vet to get proper insulin therapy and oral medications, which help keep the disease in check.