Diabetic Dog Food
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Having a sick dog at home can be heartbreaking for any family. However, there are certain dog diseases that can be detected early, one of these is diabetes. When diabetes in dogs is detected early, it can be treated and managed effectively, just like in humans!
Diabetes management involves a healthy diet and lifestyle. Diabetic dog food can go some way towards keeping your dog healthy with minimal medical intervention.
Diabetes in dogs is not uncommon, and is due to the fact that the insulin in the dog's body is not metabolized properly. Sometimes, the beta cells in the pancreas that are responsible for insulin production are not working properly. Metabolic problems can cause an elevation in the blood sugar in the body leading to diabetic symptoms.
Similar to humans, canine diabetes comes in two types - type 1 and type 2. The majority of canine diabetes is type 2. Type 1 is where there very little of almost no insulin production. Type 2 diabetes is when the canine body is resistant to insulin.
The most important thing to do in a dog with diabetes is to control the blood glucose level. Insulin injections are given to the dog under the supervision of a veterinarian. The major lifestyle change that you have to make is with regards the diet. Predominantly this will be to give the dog diabetic food. You should be aware that commercial dog foods are often high in carbohydrates and sugar.
Diabetic dog food is specially prepared for dogs with diabetes. You actually have two choices if you want to give a diabetic diet to your dog. One is natural food formulated for the dog and the other option is commercial diabetic dog food.
Naturally prepared food for canine diabetes should contain the following:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables, but no grapes or raisins. Fruits and vegetables have natural sugars that can be good for diabetic dogs.
- Low fat meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish. These contain very little fat.
- Put in some grains such as oats, brown rice and millet. These are great for diabetic dogs and can help control insulin levels.
- Vitamin E can help in lowering the body's requirement for insulin.
There are commercially prepared diabetic dog foods that you can feed your dogs, but generally the choice is not huge. Vets normally prefer to recommend commercial dog foods that are made from natural ingredients.
The good thing about diabetic dog food is that you no longer have to give supplements to your dog. As they consume the dog food, fibre and antioxidants are increased. This is not achieved with traditional dog food.
If you are going to feed your dog with traditional dog food, you will still have to include supplements and insulin. Whilst expensive, specialist dog food for diabetic dogs can actually save time and money in the long run.
Feeding your dog with diabetic dog food is a great option if you Dog is an unfortunate sufferer. In order to protect your pet it is important that you consult with your vet before making any decisions.