Can I Feed My Diabetic Dog Between Meals?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Treats between meals are OK, but not necessary

; it may be best to just stick with meals and no treats. Avoid snacks that list syrup, molasses, fructose, dextrose, or maltose on the ingredients label. Homemade dehydrated meats, carrots, snap peas, and even canned pumpkin are good options.

Why is my diabetic dog always hungry?

This is because

the dog isn't efficiently converting nutrients from its food

. Increased appetite. The dog can be very hungry all the time because the body's cells aren't getting all the glucose they need, even though the dog is eating a normal amount.

How often should diabetic dogs eat?

The best way to feed a diabetic dog is

twice a day

. You should have received a diet recommendation for your dog. If you have not received one, please ask for one. The second step in treatment is to use a drug to control (lower) blood glucose levels.

When should I feed my diabetic dog?

As a general rule, feed half of your dog's total daily food right before or with each injection. The first meal (half of the daily ration) is given

just before the morning insulin injection

. This allows you to see that the dog is feeling well and eating normally before the insulin is given.

Can I feed my diabetic dog 3 times a day?


Most dogs do best on a regular schedule of 2-3 meals a day

. As a general rule, injections should be given every 12 hours. Talk to your vet about getting your dog on the right schedule.

Can I give my dog insulin an hour after eating?

A diabetic pet needs to eat before you administer insulin.

For best results, inject insulin within one hour after feeding

to prevent blood sugar spikes. Many pet owners like to administer insulin while their pet eats to take advantage of that distraction, but, if you do that, ensure your pet eats all her food.

Are eggs good for diabetic dogs?


Yes, eggs are good for a diabetic dog

because they are a good protein source and won't cause a rise in blood sugar levels. A healthy, nutritious and balanced diet is one of the keys to overall health.

How much food should a diabetic dog eat per day?

They're often 2 to 3 calories each and widely available . All in all, try to keep the total number of calories from treats to less than 5 percent. For a 50-pound diabetic dog eating about 1,000 calories total per day, that means treats should total

no more than 50 calories per day

.

Can I give my dog insulin once a day?


Dogs with mellitus typically require two daily insulin injections

as well as a dietary change. Although a dog can go a day or so without insulin and not have a crisis, this should not be a regular occurrence; treatment should be looked upon as part of the dog's daily routine.

Can you overfeed a diabetic dog?


Avoid Overfeeding Them

Speaking of food, one of the best ways to support your dog with diabetes is to stop overfeeding them if they're carrying extra weight. The reason why is because it is far easier for your dog to manage their diabetes if they are a healthy weight.

What happens if I feed my diabetic dog too much food?

Mild hyperglycemia (high glucose) is always better than hypoglycemia (low glucose), so it's extremely important for your diabetic dog to eat. Too much food can elevate glucose to higher levels than are safe, causing what we already discussed –

more peeing – more drinking – dehydration

.

How does a dog act when blood sugar is high?

High blood Sugar causes

increased thirst and urination

. See a veterinarian promptly if your dogs shows these symptoms. Vet bills can sneak up on you.

Can I give my dog insulin 2 hours late?

An hour modification is just fine. Typically you don't want to vary more than that, but sometimes life happens and longer duration occur.

As long as your dog is eating, you are okay to give the insulin an hour late.

Is chicken good for diabetic dogs?

What to Feed a Diabetic Dog. Include high-quality protein from lean meats and fish in your dog's diet.

Lamb, beef, chicken, turkey, and many types of fish are all good protein sources

. You can also add eggs to your pet's diet and some dairy products, like low-fat cottage cheese.

What is the lifespan of a dog with diabetes?

The median survival for dogs with diabetes is

two years

, and there are many who live much longer than that, provided that they receive proper treatment and are regularly assessed by the vet. Thus, dogs with diabetes generally live a full, happy life that is free of symptoms when given the proper treatment.

How much water should I let my diabetic dog drink?

Most need about

an ounce of fluids per pound of body weight per day

, so a 10-pound dog needs a bit over a cup of clean water daily.

How long should you wait between insulin shots?

After insulin is injected it has onset of 10-30 minutes, peaks about one to two hours later and then begins to drop. Even after its peak, insulin stays active in your system for about two hours. Be patient. Try and wait

three to four hours

before you re-correct a high glucose, very likely it will come down.

Where is the best place to inject insulin in a dog?

Insulin injections should be given

just under the skin

. Many dogs tolerate the injections well when given about one to two inches from the middle of the back, near the shoulder blade or hip bone. Be sure to alternate the location each time you give an injection to avoid soreness.

How long does it take for insulin to lower blood sugar in dogs?

Do not give insulin to a pet that is showing signs of low blood sugar levels (see side effects below). This medication should take effect within

1 to 2 hours

; however, effects may not be noted outwardly and therefore laboratory tests will need to be done to evaluate this medication's effectiveness.

What diabetic dogs should not eat?

Avoid giving

any treats or table scraps that contain sugar or sweeteners such as corn syrup, as well as high glycemic foods that quickly boost blood sugar, such as white rice and bread

.

Is cheese OK for a diabetic?

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Cheese is safe in moderation for people with diabetes

. People with diabetes can safely eat cheese as part of a balanced, healthful diet. As with other foods, moderation is key, and so a diet that includes too much cheese would be harmful to people with or without diabetes.

What human food can diabetic dogs eat?

  • Winter Squash. …
  • Alpha Sprouts. …
  • Carrots. …
  • Parsley. …
  • Cauliflower and Broccoli. …
  • Green Beans. …
  • Salad Greens. …
  • Pea Pods.

What are the symptoms of too much insulin in dogs?

  • Very quiet and inappetent.
  • Hunger.
  • Restlessness.
  • Shivering.
  • Ataxia.
  • Disorientation.
  • Convulsions and coma.
Carlos Perez
Author
Carlos Perez
Carlos Perez is an education expert and teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth. He holds a degree in education and has taught in both public and private schools, as well as in community-based organizations. Carlos is passionate about empowering young people and helping them reach their full potential through education and mentorship.