I'm really hoping for some advice here. My sweet lab, Daisy, was just diagnosed with diabetes, and I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. The vet suggested a prescription diet, but honestly, it's a bit out of our budget right now. I've been researching non-prescription dry food options that might work for her, but there are so many out there, it's hard to know what's best. I want to make sure it's something that can help manage her blood sugar without breaking the bank. Have any of you been in a similar situation? What brands or ingredients should I be looking out for? Any help or recommendations would be hugely appreciated. Thanks so much in advance!
Hello there!
Managing your dog's diabetes can feel overwhelming at times, but you’re doing the right thing by looking into food options that work well for your furry friend. Generally, diabetic dogs do better on a diet that's high in fiber and protein, but low in fat and simple carbohydrates. This helps keep your pup's blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
When selecting non-prescription dry food, look for options that list meat as the first ingredient. Also, consider ones that advertise or have a reputation for being low-glycemic or designed for weight management, as these can help minimize blood sugar spikes.
At home, try to maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Feeding your dog the same amount of food at the same times each day helps regulate their insulin. You can also offer small, healthy treats like green beans or a few pieces of cooked chicken (without skin or seasoning) if you want to spice up their diet a bit.
Keep an eye out for warning signs like increased thirst, frequent urination, significant weight loss, or lethargy, as these could suggest their diabetes isn't as controlled as it should be.
For more tailored advice, why not book a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet? We’d be more than happy to help fine-tune a plan that keeps your dog feeling their best.
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