Purina Diabetic Diet

Diabetes, a condition in which the body cannot produce or absorb insulin, can affect household pets as well as humans. Without insulin, the body cannot break down simple sugars (such as carbohydrates) for energy. Diabetes is most commonly treated by dosing the body with insulin, though dietary changes can either augment or replace insulin treatment. The pet care company Purina sells food catered to dietary concerns of cats and dogs with diabetes.

  1. For Cats

    • Purina's food for diabetic cats is called "Purina Veterinary Diets DM" (DM standing for Dietetic Management). The product consists of both wet and dry food. According to its website, the foods are high in dietary protein and low in dietary carbohydrates, meaning that cats can absorb energy from the food without having to process too many simple sugars. The high amount of protein also provides the large amounts of amino acids essential to a cat's diet. Purina DM is available only with a prescription from a veterinarian.

    For Dogs

    • Purina's dietary management product for dogs is called "Purina Veterinary Diets DCO" (also known as the "Dual Fiber Complex" diet). DCO is a dry dog food that, according to the Purina website, provides "a high level of complex carbohydrates," increased fiber, and a moderate amount of fat and calories. Unlike cats, dogs do not require a high amount of dietary protein. Instead, the complex carbohydrates provide the diabetic dog with energy. Complex carbohydrates delay the absorption of glucose, meaning your dog will have less intense fluctuation in blood-sugar levels. This product is available only with a prescription from a veterinarian.