Feline diabetes is a severe condition that requires careful management and appropriate nutrition. Moreover, some diabetic cats cannot tolerate certain prescription foods due to allergies or other medical issues.
Luckily, there are plenty of non-prescription options for diabetic cats today that may provide your cat with the same benefits as a prescription diet.
Our number one choice is Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food. This high-protein, grain free formula ensures your cat’s blood sugar levels remain balanced and stable all day long.
This blog post will explore the best non-prescription food choices for diabetic cats and how to select the right one for your pet.
You will better understand which foods are best suited for your diabetic cat and how to get them the nourishment they need. So let’s dive in!
What to Look Out for in Non-Prescription Cat Food for Diabetic Cats
When selecting non-prescription cat food for a diabetic cat, it is essential to look for certain features. Here are some of the key considerations when choosing a high-quality diet:
- Low Carbohydrates: It is essential to choose a diet low in carbohydrates and sugar, as this will help keep blood sugar levels stable. Selecting a cat food with minimal grain content and more protein than carbs will benefit your pet’s health.
- High Protein Content: Diabetic cats require higher amounts of protein in their diets than normal cats; this helps maintain muscle mass and keeps them feeling satiated between meals without raising their blood sugar levels too much. Look for cat food that contains protein, preferably from animal-based sources.
- Healthy Fats: Fats such as omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for diabetic cats because they can help to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Added Vitamins and Minerals: Cats need vitamins and minerals to stay healthy, so make sure the food you select has added vitamins and minerals.
- Moisture Content: Diabetic cats may benefit from food with increased moisture content, which helps keep them hydrated. Canned and wet foods are higher in water than dry kibble, so consider adding some of these options to your pet’s diet.
Our Top Non-Prescription Food for Diabetic Cats
- Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food (Overall Best Food)
- Wysong Epigen 90 Grain-Free Dry Cat Food (Best Grain-Free Food)
- Crave Adult Grain-Free Dry Cat Food (Best Dry Food)
3 Best Non-Prescription Food for Diabetic Cats
Each formula listed below has been carefully selected for their high-quality nutrition, low carbohydrate content, and added vitamins and minerals.
They follow AAFCO nutritional guidelines and have been independently tested to ensure they meet the healthy diet requirements for diabetic cats.
Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 44% Crude Protein, 20% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 472 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whitefish Meal, Chicken Fat, Field Peas, Dried Eggs
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-free, high-protein cat food
Pros
- Low carbohydrate content
- Small kibble size
- The high-protein content keeps your cat’s blood sugar levels low.
- Healthy omega-3 & 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Contains probiotics and prebiotics for improved digestion
- Added taurine for better heart and eye health
Cons
- Pricey compared to other brands.
Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is free of corn, wheat, and soy – common allergens that can interfere with diabetes control. This formula is also high in protein and contains a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids that help to regulate blood sugar.
Additionally, the food has natural prebiotics and probiotics that support a healthy digestive system. Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food provides all the nutrition needed for an active adult cat’s lifestyle with quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Wysong Epigen 90 Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 63% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 445 kcal per cup.
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Organic Chicken, Meat Protein Isolate, Chicken Fat, Gelatin
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Ultra high protein low carb cat food
Pros
- High-quality, FDA-approved ingredients
- Contains natural probiotics to promote digestive health
- Ultra-high protein, low carb food
- Enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to promote overall health
- Quite affordable
Cons
- Your cat may have loose stools if he eats this food too much.
Wysong Epigen is an ultra-high protein, starch-free dry cat food. Kibbles are small and crunchy, which makes it perfect for cats of all sizes.
The high-protein recipe helps support lean muscle mass, a healthy immune system, and optimal energy levels. The added probiotics benefit digestive health, while taurine promotes eye and heart health.
While this food would benefit cats with diabetes, feeding them too much can lead to diarrhea as a side effect.
Crave Adult Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 40% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 379 kcal/cup.
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Split Peas, Chicken Fat
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-free high protein cat food
Pros
- Formulated without corn, wheat, or soy products
- Easy-to-digest food
- High protein content helps maintain a healthy weight and blood sugar levels
- A complete meal for indoor cats
Cons
- Kibble size may be too big for older cats.
Crave Adult Grain-Free Dry Cat Food has been crafted with high-quality ingredients to provide your cat with the necessary nutrients. All recipes are grain-free and contain no corn, wheat, or soy, which can be difficult for cats to digest.
This recipe has added vitamins and minerals for complete nutrition and antioxidants to help support a robust immune system.
Diabetes in Cats
It is estimated that around 0.5 -1% of cats in the United States have diabetes. Cats with diabetes predominantly suffer from Type 2 diabetes, which involves resistance to the effects of insulin produced by the cat’s pancreas.
The accumulation of glucose in the body can cause various health complications.
Signs of Diabetes in Cats
Common signs of diabetes in cats include extreme thirst and urination, weight loss, lethargy, and poor coat condition.
In rare cases, some cats may also suffer from plantigrade stance when a cat stands with its weight on its heels or ankles instead of its paws.
If you notice your cat is showing any of these symptoms, consult a vet for a thorough diagnosis as soon as possible.
Risk Factors for Diabetes in Cats
Risk factors include obesity, age, physical activity, male gender, and certain breeds. Overweight cats are at higher risk than those that do not get enough exercise.
Older cats also tend to be more prone to diabetes than younger ones. Male cats may be more likely than female cats to develop diabetes, and some breeds, such as Burmese and Siamese, are predisposed to the disease.
How to Feed a Diabetic Cat
- Feed your cat at the same times and ensure the meals are portioned according to their daily recommended caloric intake.
- Avoid regular treats, table scraps, and other high-calorie foods, as these can cause sudden blood sugar spikes.
Prescription Diabetic Food Vs. Non-Prescription Diabetic Cat Food
Prescription diabetic foods are specially formulated to provide cats with the necessary nutrients while controlling their blood sugar levels.
However, non-prescription foods high in protein and low in carbohydrates can also benefit cats with diabetes.
Prescription diabetic food is typically more expensive than non-prescription diabetic food. So which is better for your diabetic cat- prescription or non-prescription food?
Ultimately, the decision lies with you and your vet. Your vet can provide guidance on which type of food is best suited to help manage your cat’s diabetes and ensure optimal health over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often do you Feed a Diabetic Cat?
Diabetic cats should be fed a consistent diet at regular meals, usually two to three times per day. For cats on insulin therapy, meals should be timed around insulin injections to ensure optimal absorption of nutrients.
Talk to your vet about what food is best for your cat and how often you should feed them.
How Soon After a Diabetic Cat Vomits Should I try to Feed her?
If your cat is eating too fast, they will probably vomit frequently. To avoid this, feed them smaller meals more often. Contact your veterinarian for advice if vomiting persists.
Can Non-Prescription Diets help with Cat Diabetes?
Yes, non-prescription diets can help manage diabetes in cats. Look for cat foods that have low carbohydrates and high protein. These foods will help keep your cat’s blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
Your vet may also be able to recommend specific food brands or formulas to help your diabetic cat maintain a healthy weight and normal glucose levels.
Can you Feed Cats Wet and Dry Food for Diabetes?
Cats with diabetes can eat both wet and dry food. Consult your vet before making major changes to your cat’s diet plan.
What Dry Cat Food is Good for Diabetic Cats?
When choosing dry food for your diabetic cat, look for a formula with low carbohydrates and high protein levels. There are several brands on the market specifically designed for cats with diabetes.
Avoid processed foods as these often contain sugar and other ingredients that can spike blood sugar levels in diabetic cats.
Final Verdict
Cats with diabetes must be closely monitored and managed through diet, exercise, and medications.
Your feline friend can still live a long and healthy life with diabetes, but it’s essential to provide them with the best diet low in carbohydrates and protein.
Our top pick is Annamaet Grain-Free Dry Cat Food. This high-protein formula is low in carbohydrates, helping to keep your cat’s blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
Ultimately, any diet you choose from the list for your diabetic cat should be discussed with a qualified veterinarian who can provide personalized advice on what will work best for your cat.