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Question:

Diabetic Dog Will Eat Everything but Prescription Food

I’m really in need of some advice and support. My furry buddy, Max, was recently diagnosed with diabetes and my vet prescribed a special diet to help manage his condition. However, it’s been a nightmare trying to get him to eat it. Max has always been a bit of a chowhound, usually diving headfirst into his bowl, but now he'll sniff this new food and just walk away, no matter how hungry he should be. Strangely enough, he seems more than willing to devour anything else he can get his paws on. I’ve tried everything from adding a bit of chicken broth to mixing in some of his old treats just to make it more enticing, but no luck. I’m really worried and feeling guilty because I know how important this diet is for his health. Has anyone else gone through something similar with their dog? Any tips or tricks would be incredibly appreciated!

Answer:

Hi there! It sounds like you’re having a bit of a challenge with your pup’s eating habits. Dogs with diabetes can sometimes be a little stubborn about dietary changes, especially when it involves prescription food. There could be a few reasons your dog is refusing to eat it. It might be a simple matter of taste and texture, which dogs can be surprisingly picky about. Another cause could be that the prescription food makes your dog feel less satisfied if it’s lower in calories or fat content.



To help encourage your dog to eat its prescription food, you could try a gradual switch by mixing it with their regular food and slowly increasing the ratio of the new food. Warming it slightly can also make it more appealing. Feeding your dog at scheduled times rather than leaving food out all day can also improve appetite for the prescription diet.



Keep a close eye on signs like increased thirst, excessive urination, lethargy, vomiting, or any sudden weight loss, as these can indicate that your dog’s diabetes isn’t well controlled and needs immediate attention.



If your dog continues to skip meals, it’s crucial to address this, as consistent food intake is important for managing diabetes. I encourage you to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet so we can talk more about this and find the best solution for your furry friend!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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