Diabetes in dogs and cats is a manageable condition, but it requires consistency, patience, and the right daily support. Blood sugar imbalances don’t happen overnight, and long-term stability depends heavily on proper nutrition, routine monitoring, and reducing unnecessary stress on the body. A thoughtful approach that includes species-appropriate diet, stable feeding routines, and targeted holistic support can make a meaningful difference. When caught early and managed correctly, many pets go on to live full, comfortable lives with a good quality of life.
Do not feed kibble. Kibble is high in carbohydrates and it converts to sugar. See our pet food recommendations below.
We recommend you get an in-home blood glucose monitor for dogs and cats.
Diabetes mellitus is a condition where a pet’s body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly, which causes blood sugar levels to rise. It’s most often seen in middle-aged to senior pets and, while it does require lifelong attention, many pets go on to live happy, comfortable lives with the right support.
There are two main types of diabetes seen in pets. Type 1, which is more common in dogs, happens when the pancreas produces little to no insulin, making insulin therapy necessary. Type 2, which is more common in cats, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. This form is often linked to diet, weight, and lifestyle factors.
Some common signs pet parents may notice include increased thirst and urination, a strong appetite paired with weight loss, low energy or weakness, cloudy eyes in dogs, an unkempt or greasy coat in cats, and recurring urinary tract infections. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian.
Diagnosis usually involves blood work and a urinalysis, and sometimes additional testing, such as fructosamine levels, to assess longer-term blood sugar control. Catching diabetes early and monitoring it consistently can make a big difference in long-term outcomes.
Conventional treatment depends on the species. Dogs typically need insulin injections for life, while cats may need insulin at first and, in some cases, can go into remission with proper diet and care. For both dogs and cats, regular blood glucose monitoring is an important part of staying on track.
In addition to conventional care, many families choose to incorporate holistic and supportive strategies. Diet plays a major role, especially for cats, who tend to do best on low-carbohydrate, high-protein meals. Avoiding highly processed kibble and sugary treats can help support steadier blood sugar levels. Gently cooked or raw, properly balanced diets may also be helpful, and some pets benefit from small amounts of fiber, such as pumpkin or ground chia seeds, if they tolerate them well.
Maintaining a healthy weight is especially important, as excess weight is a major risk factor for diabetes, particularly in cats. Portion control and regular, appropriate activity can go a long way in supporting metabolic health.
Some pet parents explore herbal and natural support with the guidance of a holistic veterinarian. Ingredients such as berberine or Gymnema sylvestre (Pet Wellbeing Blood Sugar Gold) may help support insulin sensitivity, while cinnamon is sometimes used in very small, carefully measured amounts to support blood sugar balance. Milk thistle is often included to support liver health, which plays an important role in glucose regulation.
Targeted supplements may also be helpful for some pets. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or algae can help reduce inflammation, while digestive enzymes and probiotics support gut health, which is closely tied to metabolic function. Chromium picolinate is sometimes used to help regulate blood sugar, but it should only be given under veterinary guidance.
Reducing stress is another often overlooked piece of the puzzle, especially for cats. Stress can raise blood sugar, so creating a calm, predictable environment and offering mental enrichment can be very beneficial.
Routine and consistency are critical for diabetic pets. Feeding and medications should be given at the same times each day, and many pet parents find at-home glucose monitoring with pet-specific meters helpful. Regular veterinary checkups and lab work help ensure the plan is working and allow for adjustments when needed.
In some cases, cats diagnosed early may achieve remission with the right combination of diet, weight management, and insulin therapy. Dogs usually remain insulin-dependent, but with consistent care and monitoring, they can enjoy long, good-quality lives.
Diabetes insipidus can sound scary when you first hear the diagnosis, but the good news is that with the right care and support, many dogs can live very comfortable, happy lives. If you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, you’re not alone, and you’re doing the right thing by learning and asking questions.
Diabetes insipidus is different from diabetes mellitus. It isn’t related to blood sugar. Instead, it affects the body’s ability to regulate water properly, which is why dogs with this condition drink excessively and produce very large amounts of very dilute urine. Because of this constant water loss, the body is always working harder to stay hydrated and balanced.
This condition is not considered curable, but it is very manageable. Most dogs do well with medication prescribed by their veterinarian, and natural, holistic support can play a big role in helping the rest of the body stay strong and resilient.
One of the most important pieces of support is hydration through food. Adding moisture to every meal helps the body absorb water more efficiently instead of relying solely on constant drinking. Gently cooked food, raw food, bone broth, or even warm water mixed into meals can make a big difference and help prevent dehydration.
Supporting the kidneys is also key. Because the kidneys are constantly processing large volumes of fluid, gentle kidney and liver support can be beneficial. Herbs such as nettle leaf, milk thistle, and dandelion leaf are often used to help nourish and support these organs. These are not meant to replace medication, but rather to support overall function. Always start slowly and observe how your dog responds.
Hormonal balance and stress support are often overlooked but very important. Diabetes insipidus involves hormone regulation, so keeping the nervous system calm and supported can help the body cope better. A calm environment, predictable routines, and avoiding unnecessary stress can all have a positive impact. Some dogs may benefit from gentle adrenal or adaptogenic support like chaga mushrooms, introduced carefully and with guidance.
Electrolyte balance is another area to pay attention to. Because dogs with diabetes insipidus lose so much water, they can also lose important minerals. Occasionally adding a clean, pet-safe electrolyte supplement without sugar or artificial ingredients can help support balance, especially during warmer weather or periods of increased thirst.
Consistency matters more than many people realize. Dogs with diabetes insipidus tend to do best with stable routines. Feeding times, medication schedules, potty breaks, and daily activity should be as consistent as possible. Predictability helps the body regulate itself more effectively.
The goal with diabetes insipidus is not just managing symptoms, but supporting the whole dog. Medication helps control water balance, while natural support focuses on hydration, organ health, and overall wellness. When these pieces work together, many dogs thrive.
Obesity, blood sugar and insulin dysregulation, vascular complications, and liver disease are targeted by Reveal. Organic mushrooms, sprouts and herbs help regulate blood sugar, insulin, and lipids; improve gut, metabolic and immune function; detoxify and aid cellular defense against oxidative stress - the root of chronic disease.
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Ketogenic diets have been found to “starve” many cancers of their primary food source, sugar. Research shows that a properly formulated ketogenic diet can improve responses to many holistic and conventional treatments, including chemotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
*this diet also helps with seizures, brain injury, or metabolic diseases
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Medicus Metabolic Health Diets for cats are therapeutic meals designed to support cats with obesity and metabolic conditions, including diabetes.
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Turmeric’s primary active constituents are called curcuminoids which are made up to 2,000% more bio-available when combined with Ginger or Black Pepper (we didn’t think many dogs or cats would like Black Pepper so we used Ginger).
This blend has been shown to support liver health, increase fat metabolism (thus helping with weight management, gallbladder buildup, and fatty lipomas), decrease inflammation (via Cox2 pathways), thin blood (this assisting with clots but also making it unsafe for use prior to surgery) and potentially moderate insulin and glucose levels (making it beneficial for diabetic conditions).
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Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Diabetes in Pets — Causes and Diagnosis.”
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Preventing and Treating Diabetes in Dogs and Cats.”
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Diabetes Awareness Month.”
“Dr. Jones’ Cat’s Diabetes Journey: 3 Home Remedies That Really Work!”
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Helping Diabetes through Pet Foods with Dr. Morgan — Webinar 11.”
If you have a question on this topic that wasn’t answered here, we invite you to ask it in our Facebook group.
For diabetes mellitis this is what we would do:
Only needed for diabetes mellitis:
Supplement Recommendations for Diabetes Insipidus:
Supplements for Diabetes Mellitus:
The best diet for a diabetic dog is one that supports stable blood sugar levels. Most dogs benefit from moderate to high-quality animal protein, controlled fat (especially if pancreatitis is a concern), and consistent fiber from whole food sources. Avoid ultra-processed kibble that is high in starches like corn, wheat, rice, or potatoes. Fresh, minimally processed diets with clearly identified animal proteins are typically easier to regulate alongside insulin therapy.
Cats are obligate carnivores and naturally require a high-protein, very low-carbohydrate diet. Many diabetic cats improve significantly when transitioned from dry kibble to a moisture-rich, low-carb fresh or gently cooked diet. Reducing carbohydrates may help improve insulin sensitivity, and in some cases, cats can go into remission when diet and weight are properly managed under veterinary supervision.
Prescription diabetic diets can help some pets because they are formulated to control calories and fiber. However, they are often still highly processed and may contain starches and synthetic additives. Many pets can be successfully managed on balanced, fresh, species-appropriate diets that support metabolic health. Diet changes should always be made carefully and coordinated with insulin dosing and blood glucose monitoring.
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