Nutrition and the diabetic pet

Patients are classified as having either Type I, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, or Type II, noninsulindependent diabetes mellitus. In Type I - the most common form of diabetes in dogs - the beta cells of the pancreas are unable to produce or secrete insulin. To achieve glycémie control, the animal must receive exogenous insulin. Type II diabetes occurs when there is a relative deficiency of insulin. The pancreatic beta cells are still able to produce insulin, but peripheral tissues are insensitive to its effects. Type II diabetes is seen more commonly in cats than in dogs and is often associated with obesity. Diabetes mellitus treatment in cats requires initial insulin therapy, along with dietary management and weight loss. Some cats are able to achieve remission of their diabetes signs and can discontinue insulin therapy. Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for developing diabetes mellitus in cats. Although the same correlation has not been proven in dogs, it is undoubtedly more difficult to maintain overweight diabetic dogs' and cats' blood glucose concentrations within a healthy range. So, in addition to gaining good glycémie control with insulin therapy and dietary management, a comprehensive weight loss program should be instituted. Because cats develop noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, some cats may achieve remission of their diabetes signs with weight loss. In some cases, the same high-fiber diet used to control diabetes can also be used as part of a safe weight loss program. Close monitoring by the veterinarian is required, because as the patient loses weight, its need for exogenous insulin will also decrease. If the insulin dose is not properly adjusted, the patient will become hypoglycemic. In some cases, failure to recognize this change in an animal's insulin requirements can result in death.