Question
Is a raw diet OK for a diabetic dog?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
Raw food doesn't replace insulin or the rest of his treatment. If you're thinking about it, ask your vet to check the exact food first. They'll want to know if it's complete, whether you can feed it the same way every day, and whether it suits his other health problems. Food and insulin are planned together, so wait for their answer.
What to know at home
One dog's better readings after going raw don't prove the food did it. What matters is whether the food is complete, whether you can feed it the same way every day, and whether it suits your dog's health overall. Cutting carbs won't cure diabetes, whatever you read online.
What to write down
- Full product details or proposed recipe
- Whether it is a complete food
- Current food, appetite and other diagnoses
What to ask next
Before you change anything, ask your vet or a vet nutritionist whether the food is complete and how to handle raw meat safely at home. Keep to the current plan until your vet gives you a new one, because food and insulin are planned together.
Sources
- Can diabetes be managed without insulin, with pills, diet or natural remedies?Why diet can't replace insulin
- Can I cook for my diabetic dog?Getting a home recipe checked by a nutritionist
- Feeding a diabetic dog: food and routineWhat any food for him needs to do
- Should I keep my diabetic dog on the same food?Keeping meals the same
- Is grain-free or low-carb food better for a diabetic dog?Why cutting carbs isn't the main thing
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
Is my dog's food recalled?
Check the maker's website and official recall notices before you act on a rumour.
Q&A
Does my diabetic dog have to eat a prescription food?
Not always. Most vets say a steady, balanced food can work, but your vet makes the call.
Q&A
Should I keep my diabetic dog on the same food?
If he's steady, most vets say stick with it. Another illness can still mean a change.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.