Home Remedies for Cat Diabetes

Feline diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a condition in which a cat's pancreas does not produce the correct amount of insulin. Cats need insulin to convert fat, protein and sugar into energy. Diabetes can cause sugar to build up in the cat's urine, which makes the cat drink excessive amounts of water and urinate frequently. Other symptoms include bladder infections and kidney infections. Vets treat feline diabetes with insulin injections and oral medications, but you can help manage your cat's diabetes with a few home remedies.

  1. Diet

    • Diabetic cats benefit from at least two small meals a day rather than free-feeding, in which food is out all day. According to the Cat Health Guide, a diabetic cat should eat a high-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet to remain healthy. Alternatively, a diabetic cat can eat a diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. The type of food you feed a diabetic cat matters, and getting a vet's opinion on the best food for your diabetic cat is a good idea.

    Supplements

    • According to veterinarian Jean Hofve, certain herbal and nutritional supplements can help manage feline diabetes. These supplements include magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, milk thistle, chromium, vitamin B6 and vanadium. Check with your vet before starting your cat on any of these supplements to see which ones would be best for your cat.

    Healthy Lifestyle

    • Obesity can cause diabetes in cats. By ensuring that your cat leads a healthy lifestyle and remains in good physical shape, you can help prevent diabetic shock. Feeding a nutritious food is important, as is exercise. If your cat is lazy and does not get enough exercise, you can try luring it with a toy or attaching a leash and walking it if it will allow you to do so.