Aging is a natural process common to all living beings. Cats are no exception to this. And with increasing age, like in human beings, cats too develop many illnesses. Type 2 diabetes is one such condition that affects several cats in the country. Diabetes mellitus can certainly be managed and the quality of life of your pet cat improved. A modified diet, insulin injections, and oral medication, all under the advice and watchful eye of a qualified veterinarian, is the right treatment approach to treat diabetes in cats. Here are a few sensible dietary tips you can follow as you take care of your senior cat with diabetes.

Watch What You Feed
As cats grow older, they might not enjoy the same foods, or in the same quantities, they are used to eating. For example, a young cat with razor-sharp teeth might enjoy dry kibble or strong raw meat. Apart from keeping their stomachs full, these foods keep them occupied and expend their energy adequately. As cats age, however, their teeth might not be as strong, and their energy levels too might dwindle. Diabetic cats might lose muscle mass and even become weak. Hence softer textures of food, and in lesser quantities might be more appropriate for them. Wet food made especially for kittens or canned food might be good choices.

Keep Track of Weight Gain or Loss
Sudden weight gain and obesity, or a significant weight loss in your older cat, are both conditions that demand your attention. An underlying health condition could cause these changes, so consulting a veterinarian and obtaining a diagnosis on your cat’s health is vital.

If your diabetic cat is obese, then foods having fewer carbohydrates and fats, and more proteins and fiber might be recommended by the doctor. This changed diet will help lose weight naturally and safely, while at the same time providing the essential calories and nutrition required by your cat.

In case your diabetic cat is losing weight, ensure he has access to healthy food and water throughout the day, or feed him wholesome, nutritious food more times every day.

Identify Co-morbid Illnesses
If your older cat has other health issues apart from diabetes mellitus, like renal disease, his diet and medication must be compatible to suit this condition too. A protein-rich diet that is low in phosphorus is ideal for geriatric cats with diabetes mellitus and concurrent renal disease. This is one of the most essential diet tips for cats with diabetes mellitus.

Try a Protein-rich Diet
Carbohydrates are energy giving. But when these are not broken down into glucose and used by the body in the absence of an effective insulin hormone, blood-sugar levels may shoot up significantly. And for diabetic cats, this is precisely the situation you must try to avoid. Cats are naturally meat-eaters. Hence, a protein-rich diet is ideal for them. Try providing your diabetic cat fresh meat of animals like chicken, duck, turkey, lamb, quail, rabbit or venison.

Provide Hypo-allergenic Food
Diabetic cats have a fragile immune system. So giving them natural, hypoallergenic grain-free foods that do not contain a whole list of preservatives or artificial fillers would be ideal.

Consistent Treatment
Following feed times and restriction diets strictly are important. This will help stabilize blood sugar levels and is a crucial diet tip for cats with diabetes mellitus.