Diabetes, especially, ravages a pet’s quality of life (and yours). Pets, like people, can have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Type 1, which is more common in dogs, occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. In type 2—more common in cats—cells don’t respond properly to insulin. Either condition is tricky to manage. You’ll need to monitor your pet’s blood glucose levels and possibly give daily insulin injections. That doesn’t have to happen, however. Type 2 diabetes is often preventable for pets, just as for people, and the precautionary advice is the same: No overfeeding, and cut back on treats. See the vet if your pet is extra thirsty, urinates more often than usual, or has sweet-smelling breath. (Learn more about beating your pet’s diabetes danger here.) Guilt often causes pet obesity, says Ernie Ward, DVM, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and a veterinarian in Calabash, NC. “People show their love by doling out too much food and treats,” he says. “I see too many clients struggling to give insulin injections to their diabetic pets.” Here are Dr. Ward’s suggestions for keeping your pet trim and healthy. Count Kitty’s kibble. Just 10 extra pieces of kibble a day will pack a pound a year onto your cat. Use a measuring cup at mealtime. Champion the can. Canned food is great for cats. Compared with kibble, it has more protein and fewer carbohydrates, and it helps you control kitty’s calories. Stick with simple treats. When training your pet, use only tiny treats made with a single ingredient, such as sweet potato, blueberry, or salmon. Ask your vet four questions. “What should I feed my pet? What amount? How much exercise does my pet need? What types are best?” Ban “Hi, Poochie, I’m home” treats. Stop giving treats because you feel guilty about being away all day. Enjoy a play session instead—it’s calorie-free, and the activity benefits both of you (especially when it’s one of these 10 Fun Ways To Lose Weight With Your Pet.)
