Changes: Low-carb diet

Latest revision as of 14:37, 12 October 2015

It was known well before the discovery of insulin^[1] that a low-carb diet would help diabetic humans survive much longer. It's not surprising, then, that low-carb diets are studied in cats and dogs with diabetes.

Both dogs and cats are able to convert protein into energy as well as into muscle. The average of most commercial dry pet foods is between 30-70% carbohydrates. Neither species in the wild would have a diet similar to this; both would consume far less than the 30% low-end estimate^[2].

It is certainly possible to produce canned pet foods without carbohydrates, but today's dry pet foods would be non-existent without them.

It's worth noting that high-protein diets in less active and younger dogs may have health risks. Young dogs who are fed too much protein can develop joint issues in later life.^[3]

In Cats

Most commercial dry foods are not suitable for diabetic cats^[4]^[5]: they contain between 30% and 70% carbohydrates^[6]. Use the link below to calculate yours based on as-fed values requested from the manufacturer^[7] Carbohydrates are essential to the formation of dry pet food, adding structure, texture and form. Dry food could not exist in its current form without carbohydrates, mostly corn and other grains.

Even though there is a dry food for cats called Innova Evo Cat & Kitten^[8] that claims a 7 per cent carbohydrate level, some caregivers have found that it did not produce reduced blood glucose levels as effectively as wet food with a similar carbohydrate rating. In fact a vet had EVO dry food tested and found its carbohydrate level was nearly double what it was claimed.^[9] One of our case studies shows a 150 mg/dL point drop in blood glucose levels by removing EVO from a mixed wet/dry diet. However, dry EVO can serve as a transitional food for dry food addicts--change the cat from their normal dry to dry EVO, then gradually replace the dry EVO by wet EVO or another low carb wet food.

BD Diabetes and Dr. Plotnick, of Manhattan Cat Specialists in New York City, remind us that in the wild, cats eat mice, which nutritionally break down to being 3% carbohydrate, 40% protein, and 50% fat--low-carb^[10]^[11]. He goes on to say that while carbohydrates, in the form of glucose, are necessary to the body's cells for fuel, they are not a dietary must; cats metabolize protein quite well, turning that protein into glucose^[12].

Low-carb and studies

Recent studies (see links below) show that cats with diabetes can be better regulated and even sometimes brought into remission with a low-carbohydrate (sometimes called "Catkins", though more properly Hodgkins^[13]) diet. ( It's hardly surprising for cats, who eat about 5% calories from carbs^[14] in nature. Veterinarians are gradually switching their recommendations to a low-carb diet as well^[15]. The Feline Diabetes Message Board discovered the benefits of this diet along with "Zone" author Dr. Barry Sears and bestselling author Sherry Sontag, back in 1999.^[16]

Thus for some time it was customary to feed diabetic cats, like dogs, with a high-fiber, medium carbohydrate diet, attempting to use the high fiber content to slow down carbohydrate absorption in the feline body. This has not proven successful in cats, though, as shown in more recent studies^[17]. Drs. Greco^[18], Bennett, Pierson^[19], Hodgkins^[20] and Rand^[21] all now exclusively recommend a low-carbohydrate diet for uncomplicated diabetic cats.

Healthy cats have even been shown^[22] to have improved insulin sensitivity and better weight control when eating a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, which may mean less tendency to become diabetic in the first place.

Intervet^[23] brings up an interesting point re: the carbohydrates present in the low-carb diet. Drawing from Dr. Greco's 2001 study as reference^[24], they suggest that the carbohydrates of the low-carb foods chosen should be as low in the glycemic index^[25]^[26]as possible. This is echoed in the "Feeding the Diabetic Patient" presentation from Ohio State University's Endocrinology Symposium in 2006^[27].

Switching to low-carb

For cats, it is not necessary to buy a prescription low-carb diet for uncomplicated diabetes^[28]. (And Purina's "DM", though well-balanced, may have poorer-quality ingredients^[29] than many standard commercial foods!) Instead, look at Janet and Binky's lists^[30]^[31]^[32] of commercial cat food nutrient breakdown in your country, and choose a food you can afford with carbohydrate content between 4 and 10% calories from carbohydrates. Some cats do well with even lower, others find less than 4% too low^[33] and their cats experience paradoxical high blood glucose levels.

Raw food with proper nutritional supplements are often best for both cats and dogs; however, raw foods increase risks of acquiring parasites and other pathologic organisms, some of which are of zoonotic concern. These risks are specifically higher in young children and people who are immunocompromised. Feeding of raw food to pets is recommended against by the Center for Disease Control.

Note: The carbohydrates shown on the label (if they exist at all) will be by weight, not by calorie content. Use the list or the Excel spreadsheet at the link below^[34] to convert to calories from carbohydrates^[35] before comparing.

If switching to a lower-carbohydrate food, do it gradually, while hometesting blood glucose, and lower the insulin dosage appropriately, with your vet's help. A sudden switch can lower insulin needs^[36] dramatically and risks hypoglycemia. This is important enough that Dr. Greco, in an lecture at the District of Columbia Academy of Veterinary Medicine, suggests reducing insulin 25-50% when switching to a high-protein, low-carb diet^[37]. If your cat is on a special diet for pancreatitis, chronic renal failure, or any other condition, consult your vet for the appropriate diet for that condition plus diabetes^[38].

Merrick Pet Foods^[39]^[40] whose dog food won the Glycemic Research Institute three years in a row (shown below) offers this information regarding their canned cat food for cats with diabetes:^[41]

In Dogs

Diabetes in dogs is best treated by feeding a nutritionally sound diet. Good regulation using this method can be achieved either through use of strictly basal insulin or basal/bolus method. This is highly dependent on the individual animal's metabolism.

Owners who want the best for their dogs will take the time and effort to understand carbohydrate metabolism, insulin action, and home glucose testing. It is in this way they can best understand how food and insulin affect their pet.

Understanding carbohydrates

When we talk about carbohydrates, it also helps to know they break down into two categories: simple and complex. An example of a simple carbohydrate is lactose (found in milk); pasta and bread are examples of complex ones. One can go a bit further with this, knowing that both bread and pasta are made from grain--mainly wheat, to include other food items made from them.

The simple ones are rapidly converted to glucose and promptly raise blood glucose levels. The liver takes longer to convert the complex ones into glucose, and so they raise blood glucose levels more gradually. This is important to know when choosing foods for those with diabetes^[42].

There are two other terms for carbohydrate classification besides these are--soluble and insoluble. The terms refer to how easily they are broken down in the digestive tract.

Soluble carbohydrates are grains, such as wheat, rice, barley, oats and corn. When cooked and present in pet foods, digestion is easy and rapid.

Insoluble carbohydrates are those we refer to as fiber, which pass through the intestinal tract without being digested^[43]. Bran,corn and its by-products, soy fiber, and beet pulp are some examples found in pet foods.

It may be in the best interests of the particular dog in question that a diet not so high in fiber be utilized, due to other health considerations^[44] or that the dog refuses to eat commercial foods higher in fiber. In these cases, home preparation of food may be the only solution. Many people prepare meals for their diabetic pets who have no need of additional bolus insulins.

Merrick Pet Foods^[45] produces high-quality dog and cat food. The Glycemic Research Institute, which tests both human and pet foods with an eye on the glycemic index and other properties important to diabetics, has awarded Merrick Best Pet Food of the Year (their third consecutive year of winning) for 3 of their dog food flavors^[46]. The food can be purchased from local retailers^[47] in the US and Canada or from the company's online store with no shipping charges for the contiguous US^[48].

===Special considerations/complications===Some other conditions that sometimes occur with diabetes, including pancreatitis, liver problems, or chronic renal failure^[49], may be incompatible with a low-carb diet. In that case, many animals are forced to use a specially-tuned medium-carb diet with special ingredients/restrictions for their condition. Consult your veterinarian

Baba Booey!

Supplements

Certain dietary supplements can help with diabetic cats and dogs. Antioxidants can help reduce or reverse damage from hyperglycemia. Chromium can help lower blood glucose levels, L-Carnitine plus a calorie-restricted diet can control weight, and Methyl-B12 can help reverse diabetic neuropathy.

References

[1] Discovery of Insulin

[2] Carbohydrates as Energy Sources if Pet Foods--Pet Eduation.com-Drs. Foster & Smith

[3] PetFoodRatings

[4] Dr. Deborah Greco on proper diabetic feline nutrition

[5] Dr. Lisa Pierson on proper feline nutrition and why dry food is unsuitable

[6] Pededucation.com-Carbohydrates in Cat Foods

[7] Feline Diabetes Library Posts

[8] Natura Pet Products Website: Innova EVO Cat and Kitten

[9] [1]

[10] Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet

[11] BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats

[12] Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet

[13] U.S. Patent 6,203,825 treating diabetes in obligate carnivores using a low-carbohydrate diet, Dr. E. Hodgkins, DVM, Esq.

[14] We Are Feeding Cats Too Many Carbohydrates-Dr. Lisa Pierson

[15] Feline Diabetes Management-Diet-North American Veterinary Conference-2006

[16] Story of how the FDMB discovered the benefits of low-carb diet for cats

[17] Comparison of a Low Carbohydrate-Low Fiber Diet and a Moderate Carbohydrate-High Fiber Diet in the Management of Feline Diabetes Mellitus-Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery-2006

[18] Dr. Greco recommends low-carb food for cats, 2004

[19] Dr. Pierson recommends low-carb food for cats

[20] Dr. Hodgkins recommends exclusively low-carbohydrate food for cats

[21] Dr. Rand recommends low-carbohydrate food for diabetic cats

[22] Insulin sensitivity, fat distribution in cats on various diets

[23] Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)References (Page 16)

[24] Comparing High Protein/Low-Carbohydrate to High-Fiber Diet in Feline Diabetes mellitus-2001

[25] Glycemic Index-How It's Measured

[26] Glycemic Index of Foods-Glycemic Index Values

[27] Feeding the Diabetic Patient-Page 34

[28] BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats

[29] Feline Diabetes Message Board--Food Discussion

[30] Canned Cat Food List

[31] Dry Cat Food List

[32] Non-US Cat Food Brands List

[33] Feline Diabetes Library: Low Carb Foods

[34] Janet's Spreadsheet

[35] Discussion of different conversion methods with links, from FDMB

[36] Feline Diabetes & Diet-The High-Carbohydrate Culprit? Dr. Lisa Pierson

[37] DA Academy of Veterinary Medicine-Lecture Notes-Endocrinology-March 2001

[38] Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)

[39] Foods Merrick Pet Foods Website

[40] Glycemic Research Institute-Merrick Dog Food Wins Again-2006-2007

[41] Merrick Pet Foods FAQs-Canned Foods

[42] Log Beach Animal Hospital

[43] Fiber in Pet Foods-Pet Education.com--Drs. Foster & Smoth

[44] Vetsulin-Feeding Schedule

[45] Merrick Pet Foods Website

[46] Glycemic Research Institute: Merrick Pet Food Named Best Pet Food of the Year-2006-2007

[47] Merrick Pet Food: Locate a Retailer Near You

[48] Merrick Pet Food-Online Store

[49] Tanya's Feline CRF Information Centre

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-It was known well before the discovery of insulin<ref>[http://www.discoveryofinsulin.com/Introduction.htm Discovery of Insulin]</ref> that a low-carb diet would help diabetic humans survive much longer.   It's not surprising, then, that low-carb diets are studied in cats and dogs with diabetes.
+It was known well before the discovery of insulin<ref>[http://www.discoveryofinsulin.com/Introduction.htm Discovery of Insulin]</ref> that a low-carb diet would help diabetic humans survive much longer. It's not surprising, then, that low-carb diets are studied in cats and dogs with diabetes.
+Both dogs and cats are able to convert protein into energy as well as into muscle. The average of most commercial dry pet foods is between 30-70% carbohydrates. Neither species in the wild would have a diet similar to this; both would consume far less than the 30% low-end estimate<ref>[http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1399&articleid=2641 Carbohydrates as Energy Sources if Pet Foods--Pet Eduation.com-Drs. Foster & Smith]</ref>.
+It is certainly possible to produce canned pet foods without carbohydrates, but today's dry pet foods would be non-existent without them.
+It's worth noting that high-protein diets in less active and younger dogs may have health risks. Young dogs who are fed too much protein can develop joint issues in later life.<ref>[http://www.petfoodratings.org PetFoodRatings]</ref>
 ==In Cats==
-Most commercial [[dry food]]s are not suitable for diabetic cats<ref>[http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=16452 Dr. Deborah Greco on proper diabetic feline nutrition]</ref><ref>[http://www.catinfo.org/ Dr. Lisa Pearson on proper feline nutrition and why dry food is unsuitable]</ref>: they contain between 30% and 70% [[carbohydrates]]<ref>[http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1399&articleid=2641 Pededucation.com-Carbohydrates in Cat Foods]</ref>. Use the link below to calculate yours based on as-fed values requested from the manufacturer<ref>[http://groups.msn.com/FDLibrary/fdmbposts.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=66&LastModified=4675442618927334470 Feline Diabetes Library Posts]</ref>  They are essential to the formation of dry pet food, adding structure, texture and form. [[Dry food]] could not exist in its current form without carbohydrates. Even though there is a dry food for cats called Innova Evo Cat & Kitten<ref>[http://www.naturapet.com/display.php?d=product-detail&pxsl=%2F%2Fproduct%5B@id%3D%271255%27%5D  Natura Pet Products Website: Innova EVO Cat and Kitten]</ref> that claims a 7 percent carbohydrate level, some caregivers have found that it did not produce reduced blood glucose levels as effectively as wet food with a similar carbohydrate rating. One of [[Case:Maxwell|our case studies]] shows a 150 mg/dL point drop in blood glucose levels by removing EVO from a mixed wet/dry diet.
+Most commercial [[dry food]]s are not suitable for diabetic cats<ref>[http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=16452 Dr. Deborah Greco on proper diabetic feline nutrition]</ref><ref>[http://www.catinfo.org/ Dr. Lisa Pierson on proper feline nutrition and why dry food is unsuitable]</ref>: they contain between 30% and 70% [[carbohydrates]]<ref>[http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1399&articleid=2641 Pededucation.com-Carbohydrates in Cat Foods]</ref>. Use the link below to calculate yours based on as-fed values requested from the manufacturer<ref>[http://groups.msn.com/FDLibrary/fdmbposts.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=66&LastModified=4675442618927334470 Feline Diabetes Library Posts]</ref> Carbohydrates are essential to the formation of dry pet food, adding structure, texture and form. [[Dry food]] could not exist in its current form without carbohydrates, mostly corn and other grains.
+Even though there is a dry food for cats called Innova Evo Cat & Kitten<ref>[http://www.naturapet.com/display.php?d=product-detail&pxsl=%2F%2Fproduct%5B@id%3D%271255%27%5D  Natura Pet Products Website: Innova EVO Cat and Kitten]</ref> that claims a 7 per cent carbohydrate level, some caregivers have found that it did not produce reduced blood glucose levels as effectively as wet food with a similar carbohydrate rating. In fact a vet had EVO dry food tested and found its carbohydrate level was nearly double what it was claimed.<ref>[http://www.yourdiabeticcat.com/diet.html]</ref> One of [[Case:Maxwell|our case studies]] shows a 150 mg/dL point drop in blood glucose levels by removing EVO from a mixed wet/dry diet. However, dry EVO can serve as a transitional food for dry food addicts--change the cat from their normal dry to dry EVO, then gradually replace the dry EVO by wet EVO or another low carb wet food.
-BD Diabetes and Dr. Plotnick, of Manhattan Cat Specialists in New York City, remind us that in the wild, cats eat mice, which nutritionally break down to being 3% carbohydrate, 40% protein, and 50% fat--low-carb<ref>[http://www.manhattancats.com/Articles/Cats_and_Carbohydrates.html Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet]</ref><ref>[http://www.bddiabetes.com/us/main.aspx?cat=1&id=367 BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats]</ref>.  He goes on to say that while carbohydrates, in the form of glucose, are necessary to the body's cells for fuel, they are not a '''dietary''' must; cats metabolize protein quite well, turning that protein into glucose<ref>[http://www.manhattancats.com/Articles/Cats_and_Carbohydrates.html Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet]</ref>.
-==Low-carb and studies==
+BD Diabetes and Dr. Plotnick, of Manhattan Cat Specialists in New York City, remind us that in the wild, cats eat mice, which nutritionally break down to being 3% carbohydrate, 40% protein, and 50% fat--low-carb<ref>[http://www.manhattancats.com/Articles/Cats_and_Carbohydrates.html Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet]</ref><ref>[http://www.bd.com/us/diabetes/main.aspx?cat=7001&id=7367 BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats]</ref>. He goes on to say that while carbohydrates, in the form of glucose, are necessary to the body's cells for fuel, they are not a '''dietary''' must; cats metabolize protein quite well, turning that protein into glucose<ref>[http://www.manhattancats.com/Articles/Cats_and_Carbohydrates.html Manhattancats.com-Diabetes, Obesity & Diet]</ref>.
-Recent studies (see links below) show that cats' diabetes can be better [[regulation|regulated]] and even sometimes brought into [[remission]] with a low-carbohydrate (sometimes called "Catkins", though more properly Hodgkins<ref>[http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=6203825.PN.&OS=PN/6203825&RS=PN/6203825 U.S. Patent 6,203,825 treating diabetes in obligate carnivores using a low-carbohydrate diet, Dr. E. Hodgkins, DVM, Esq.]
-</ref>) diet. (  It's hardly surprising for cats, who eat about 5% calories from carbs<ref> [http://www.catinfo.org/#We_Are_Feeding_Cats_Too_Many_Carbohydrates Are We Feeding Cats Too Many Carbohydrates?-Dr. Lisa Pierson]</ref> in nature.  Veterinarians are gradually switching their recommendations to a low-carb diet as well<ref>[http://www.cliniciansbrief.com/cms/portals/_default/pdfs/other-publications/HIADV06%20Diabetes%20Sep%20fnl.pdf Feline Diabetes Management-Diet-North American Veterinary Conference-2006]</ref>.  The Feline Diabetes Message Board discovered the benefits of this diet along with "Zone" author Dr. Barry Sears and bestselling author Sherry Sontag, back in 1999.<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?19,493494 Story of how the FDMB discovered the benefits of low-carb diet for cats]</ref>
+===Low-carb and studies===
-Intervet<ref>[http://www.intervet.com.au/binaries/82_103335.pdf Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)References (Page 16)]</ref> brings up an interesting point re: the [[carbohydrates]] present in the low-carb diet. Drawing from Dr. Greco's 2001 study as reference<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/DietaryRecs_Greco.htm Comparing High Protein/Low-Carbohydrate to High-Fiber Diet in Feline Diabetes mellitus-2001]</ref>, they suggest that the [[carbohydrates]] of the low-carb foods chosen should be as low in the glycemic index<ref>[http://www.carbs-information.com/glycemic-index-how-measured.htm Glycemic Index-How It's Measured]</ref><ref>[http://www.carbs-information.com/glycemic-index.htm#gi Glycemic Index of Foods-Glycemic Index Values]</ref>as possible.  This is echoed in the "Feeding the Diabetic Patient" presentation from Ohio State University's Endocrinology Symposium in 2006<ref>[http://www.royalcanin.us/documents/OSUProceedings.pdf Feeding the Diabetic Patient-Page 34]</ref>. Both sources recommend low-GI foods like barley and whole grains as carbohydrate sources for cats.
-==Switching to low-carb==
+Recent studies (see links below) show that cats with diabetes can be better [[regulation|regulated]] and even sometimes brought into [[remission]] with a low-carbohydrate (sometimes called "Catkins", though more properly Hodgkins<ref>[http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=6203825.PN.&OS=PN/6203825&RS=PN/6203825 U.S. Patent 6,203,825 treating diabetes in obligate carnivores using a low-carbohydrate diet, Dr. E. Hodgkins, DVM, Esq.]
-For cats, it is not necessary to buy a prescription low-carb diet for uncomplicated diabetes<ref>[http://www.bddiabetes.com/us/main.aspx?cat=1&id=367 BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats]</ref>.  (And Purina's "DM", though well-balanced, may have poorer-quality ingredients<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?8,190483,190518 Feline Diabetes Message Board--Food Discussion]</ref> than many standard commercial foods!)  Instead, look at Janet and Binky's lists<ref> [http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/canfood.html Canned Cat Food List]</ref><ref>[http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/dryfood.html Dry Cat Food List]</ref><ref>[http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/nonusfd.html Non-US Cat Food Brands List]</ref> of commercial cat food nutrient breakdown in your country, and choose a food you can afford with carbohydrate content between 4 and 10% ''calories from carbohydrates''. Lower than 4% seems to be too low<ref>[http://groups.msn.com/FDLibrary/dietnutrition.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=235&LastModified=4675517016380545821 Feline Diabetes Library: Low Carb Foods]</ref> in many people's experience, and can paradoxically cause higher [[blood glucose level]]s. [[Raw food]] with proper nutritional supplements are often best for both cats and dogs.
+</ref>) diet. ( It's hardly surprising for cats, who eat about 5% calories from carbs<ref> [http://www.catinfo.org/#We_Are_Feeding_Cats_Too_Many_Carbohydrates We Are Feeding Cats Too Many Carbohydrates-Dr. Lisa Pierson]</ref> in nature. Veterinarians are gradually switching their recommendations to a low-carb diet as well<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20061101100738/http://www.cliniciansbrief.com/cms/portals/_default/pdfs/other-publications/HIADV06+Diabetes+Sep+fnl.pdf Feline Diabetes Management-Diet-North American Veterinary Conference-2006]</ref>. The Feline Diabetes Message Board discovered the benefits of this diet along with "Zone" author Dr. Barry Sears and bestselling author Sherry Sontag, back in 1999.<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?19,493494 Story of how the FDMB discovered the benefits of low-carb diet for cats]</ref>
-''Note:  The carbohydrates shown on the label (if they exist at all) will be  by weight, not by calorie content.  Use the list or the Excel spreadsheet at the link below<ref>[http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/calories.xls Janet's Spreadsheet]</ref> to convert to ''calories from carbohydrates''<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?8,402827 Discussion of different conversion methods with links, from FDMB]</ref> before comparing.''
+Thus for some time it was customary to feed diabetic cats, like dogs, with a high-fiber, medium carbohydrate diet, attempting to use the high fiber content to slow down carbohydrate absorption in the feline body. This has not proven successful in cats, though, as shown in more recent studies<ref>[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=16275041&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum  Comparison of a Low Carbohydrate-Low Fiber Diet and a Moderate Carbohydrate-High Fiber Diet in the Management of Feline Diabetes Mellitus-Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery-2006]</ref>. Drs. Greco<ref>[http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=16452 Dr. Greco recommends low-carb food for cats, 2004]</ref>, Bennett, Pierson<ref>[http://www.catinfo.org/#We_Are_Feeding_Cats_Too_Many_Carbohydrates Dr. Pierson recommends low-carb food for cats]</ref>, Hodgkins<ref>[http://www.yourdiabeticcat.com/protocol.html Dr. Hodgkins recommends exclusively low-carbohydrate food for cats]</ref> and Rand<ref>[http://www.uq.edu.au/vetschool/centrecah/index.html?page=43599&pid=0 Dr. Rand recommends low-carbohydrate food for diabetic cats]</ref> all now exclusively recommend a low-carbohydrate diet for uncomplicated diabetic cats.
-If switching to a lower-carbohydrate food, do it gradually, while [[hometesting]] blood glucose, and lower the [[regulation|insulin dosage]] appropriately, with your vet's help.  A sudden switch can lower insulin needs<ref>[http://www.catinfo.org/felinediabetes.htm Feline Diabetes & Diet-The High-Carbohydrate Culprit? Dr. Lisa Pierson]</ref> dramatically and risks [[hypoglycemia]]. This is important enough that Dr. Greco, in an lecture at the District of Columbia Academy of Veterinary Medicine, suggests reducing insulin 25-50% when switching to a high-protein, low-carb diet<ref>[http://www.dcavm.org/01mar.htm DA Academy of Veterinary Medicine-Lecture Notes-Endocrinology-March 2001]</ref>. If your cat is on a special diet for [[pancreatitis]], [[chronic renal failure]], or any other condition, consult your vet for the appropriate diet for that condition plus diabetes<ref>[http://www.intervet.com.au/binaries/82_103335.pdf Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)]</ref>.
+Healthy cats have even been shown<ref>[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=16902186&query_hl=2&itool=pubmed_ExternalLink Insulin sensitivity, fat distribution in cats on various diets]</ref> to have improved insulin sensitivity and better weight control when eating a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, which may mean less tendency to become diabetic in the first place.
+Intervet<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20060820132503/http://www.intervet.com.au/binaries/82_103335.pdf Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)References (Page 16)]</ref> brings up an interesting point re: the [[carbohydrates]] present in the low-carb diet. Drawing from Dr. Greco's 2001 study as reference<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/DietaryRecs_Greco.htm Comparing High Protein/Low-Carbohydrate to High-Fiber Diet in Feline Diabetes mellitus-2001]</ref>, they suggest that the [[carbohydrates]] of the low-carb foods chosen should be as low in the glycemic index<ref>[http://www.carbs-information.com/glycemic-index-how-measured.htm Glycemic Index-How It's Measured]</ref><ref>[http://www.carbs-information.com/glycemic-index.htm#gi Glycemic Index of Foods-Glycemic Index Values]</ref>as possible. This is echoed in the "Feeding the Diabetic Patient" presentation from Ohio State University's Endocrinology Symposium in 2006<ref>[http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/petdiabetes/images/8/87/2006symposiumproceedings.pdf Feeding the Diabetic Patient-Page 34]</ref>.
+===Switching to low-carb===
+For cats, it is not necessary to buy a prescription low-carb diet for uncomplicated diabetes<ref>[http://www.bddiabetes.com/us/main.aspx?cat=1&id=367 BD Diabetes-Diet & Exercise for Diabetic Cats]</ref>. (And Purina's "DM", though well-balanced, may have poorer-quality ingredients<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?8,190483,190518 Feline Diabetes Message Board--Food Discussion]</ref> than many standard commercial foods!) Instead, look at Janet and Binky's lists<ref> [http://web.archive.org/20070419161540/www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/canfood.html Canned Cat Food List]</ref><ref>[http://web.archive.org/20060616054707/www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/dryfood.html Dry Cat Food List]</ref><ref>[http://web.archive.org/20060503175520/www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/nonusfd.html Non-US Cat Food Brands List]</ref> of commercial cat food nutrient breakdown in your country, and choose a food you can afford with carbohydrate content between 4 and 10% ''calories from carbohydrates''. Some cats do well with even lower, others find less than 4% too low<ref>[http://groups.msn.com/FDLibrary/dietnutrition.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=235&LastModified=4675517016380545821 Feline Diabetes Library: Low Carb Foods]</ref> and their cats experience paradoxical high [[blood glucose level]]s.
+[[Raw food]] with proper nutritional supplements are often best for both cats and dogs; however, raw foods increase risks of acquiring parasites and other pathologic organisms, some of which are of zoonotic concern. These risks are specifically higher in young children and people who are immunocompromised. Feeding of raw food to pets is recommended against by the Center for Disease Control.
+''Note: The carbohydrates shown on the label (if they exist at all) will be by weight, not by calorie content. Use the list or the Excel spreadsheet at the link below<ref>[http://web.archive.org/20091026190616/www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/calories.xls Janet's Spreadsheet]</ref> to convert to ''calories from carbohydrates''<ref>[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?8,402827 Discussion of different conversion methods with links, from FDMB]</ref> before comparing.''
+If switching to a lower-carbohydrate food, do it gradually, while [[hometesting]] blood glucose, and lower the [[regulation|insulin dosage]] appropriately, with your vet's help. A sudden switch can lower insulin needs<ref>[http://www.catinfo.org/felinediabetes.htm Feline Diabetes & Diet-The High-Carbohydrate Culprit? Dr. Lisa Pierson]</ref> dramatically and risks [[hypoglycemia]]. This is important enough that Dr. Greco, in an lecture at the District of Columbia Academy of Veterinary Medicine, suggests reducing insulin 25-50% when switching to a high-protein, low-carb diet<ref>[http://www.dcavm.org/01mar.htm DA Academy of Veterinary Medicine-Lecture Notes-Endocrinology-March 2001]</ref>. If your cat is on a special diet for [[pancreatitis]], [[chronic renal failure]], or any other condition, consult your vet for the appropriate diet for that condition plus diabetes<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20060820132503/http://www.intervet.com.au/binaries/82_103335.pdf Intervet-Caninsulin-What to Feed the Diabetic Patient (Page 11)]</ref>.
 Merrick Pet Foods<ref> [http://merrickpetcare.com/ Foods Merrick Pet Foods Website]</ref><ref>[http://www.glycemic.com/press_releases.htm Glycemic Research Institute-Merrick Dog Food Wins Again-2006-2007]</ref> whose dog food won the Glycemic Research Institute three years in a row (shown below) offers this information regarding their canned cat food for cats with diabetes:<ref> [http://www.merrickpetcare.com/about_us/faq.php#faq_120 Merrick Pet Foods FAQs-Canned Foods]</ref>
 ==In Dogs==
-Diabetes in dogs is best treated by feeding a nutritionally sound diet.  Good regulation using this method can be achieved either through use of strictly [[basal]] insulin or [[basal]]/[[bolus]] method.  This is highly dependent on the individual animal's metabolism.
+Diabetes in dogs is best treated by feeding a nutritionally sound diet. Good regulation using this method can be achieved either through use of strictly [[basal]] insulin or [[basal]]/[[bolus]] method. This is highly dependent on the individual animal's metabolism.
-Owners who want the best for their dogs will take the time and effort to understand carbohydrate metabolism, insulin action, and home glucose testing.  It is in this way they can best understand how food and insulin affect their pet.
+Owners who want the best for their dogs will take the time and effort to understand carbohydrate metabolism, insulin action, and home glucose testing. It is in this way they can best understand how food and insulin affect their pet.
-==Understanding carbohydrates==
+===Understanding carbohydrates===
-When we talk about [[carbohydrates]], it also helps to know they break down into two categories: simple and complex.  An example of a simple carbohydrate is lactose (found in milk); pasta and bread are examples of complex ones.  One can go a bit further with this, knowing that both bread and pasta are made from grain--mainly wheat, to include other food items made from them.
+When we talk about [[carbohydrates]], it also helps to know they break down into two categories: simple and complex. An example of a simple carbohydrate is lactose (found in milk); pasta and bread are examples of complex ones. One can go a bit further with this, knowing that both bread and pasta are made from grain--mainly wheat, to include other food items made from them.
-The simple ones are rapidly converted to glucose and promptly raise [[blood glucose level]]s.  The liver takes longer to convert the complex ones into glucose, and so they raise blood glucose levels more gradually.  This is important to know when choosing foods for those with diabetes<ref> [http://www.lbah.com/feline/diabetes.htm Log Beach Animal Hospital]</ref>.
+The simple ones are rapidly converted to glucose and promptly raise [[blood glucose level]]s. The liver takes longer to convert the complex ones into glucose, and so they raise blood glucose levels more gradually. This is important to know when choosing foods for those with diabetes<ref> [http://www.lbah.com/feline/diabetes.htm Log Beach Animal Hospital]</ref>.
+There are two other terms for carbohydrate classification besides these are--soluble and insoluble. The terms refer to how easily they are broken down in the digestive tract.
-Merrick Pet Foods<ref>[http://www.merrickpetcare.com/ Merrick Pet Foods Website]</ref> produces high-quality dog and cat food.  The Glycemic Research Institute, which tests both human and pet foods with an eye on the glycemic index and other properties important to diabetics, has awarded Merrick Best Pet Food of the Year (their third consecutive year of winning) for 3 of their dog food flavors<ref>[http://www.glycemic.com/press_releases.htm Glycemic Research Institute: Merrick Pet Food Named Best Pet Food of the Year-2006-2007]</ref>.  The food can be purchased from local retailers<ref> [http://www.merrickpetcare.com/locator/ Merrick Pet Food: Locate a Retailer Near You]</ref> in the US and Canada or from the company's online store with no shipping charges for the contiguous US<ref>[http://www.merrickpetcare.com/store/ Merrick Pet Food-Online Store]</ref>.
+Soluble carbohydrates are grains, such as wheat, rice, barley, oats and corn. When cooked and present in pet foods, digestion is easy and rapid.
-==Special considerations/complications==
+Insoluble carbohydrates are those we refer to as [[fiber]], which pass through the intestinal tract without being digested<ref>[http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1399&articleid=2642 Fiber in Pet Foods-Pet Education.com--Drs. Foster & Smoth]</ref>. Bran,corn and its by-products, soy fiber, and beet pulp are some examples found in pet foods.
-It may be in the best interests of the particular pet in question that a diet not so high in [[fiber]] be utilized, due to other health considerations<ref>[http://www.vetsulin.com/Veterinarian/Schedule.html Vetsulin-Feeding Schedule]</ref> or that the pet refuses to eat commercial pet foods higher in fiber.  In these cases, home preparation of food may be the only solution. Many people prepare meals for their diabetic pets who have no need of additional [[bolus]] insulins.
+It may be in the best interests of the particular dog in question that a diet not so high in [[fiber]] be utilized, due to other health considerations<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20071117211157/http://www.vetsulin.com/Veterinarian/Schedule.html Vetsulin-Feeding Schedule]</ref> or that the dog refuses to eat commercial foods higher in fiber. In these cases, home preparation of food may be the only solution. Many people prepare meals for their diabetic pets who have no need of additional [[bolus]] insulins.
-Some other conditions that sometimes occur with diabetes, including [[pancreatitis]], liver problems, or chronic renal failure<ref>[http://felinecrf.org/ Tanya's Feline  CRF Information Centre]</ref>, may be incompatible with a low-carb diet.  In that case, many animals are forced to use a specially-tuned [[medium-carb diet]] with special ingredients/restrictions for their condition.  Consult your veterinarian.
+Merrick Pet Foods<ref>[http://www.merrickpetcare.com/ Merrick Pet Foods Website]</ref> produces high-quality dog and cat food. The Glycemic Research Institute, which tests both human and pet foods with an eye on the glycemic index and other properties important to diabetics, has awarded Merrick Best Pet Food of the Year (their third consecutive year of winning) for 3 of their dog food flavors<ref>[http://www.glycemic.com/press_releases.htm Glycemic Research Institute: Merrick Pet Food Named Best Pet Food of the Year-2006-2007]</ref>. The food can be purchased from local retailers<ref> [http://www.merrickpetcare.com/locator/ Merrick Pet Food: Locate a Retailer Near You]</ref> in the US and Canada or from the company's online store with no shipping charges for the contiguous US<ref>[http://www.merrickpetcare.com/store/ Merrick Pet Food-Online Store]</ref>.
-==Supplements==
+===Special considerations/complications===Some other conditions that sometimes occur with diabetes, including [[pancreatitis]], liver problems, or chronic [[renal failure]]<ref>[http://felinecrf.org/ Tanya's Feline  CRF Information Centre]</ref>, may be incompatible with a low-carb diet. In that case, many animals are forced to use a specially-tuned [[medium-carb diet]] with special ingredients/restrictions for their condition. Consult your veterinarian
-Certain dietary [[:Category:supplements|supplements]] can help with diabetic cats and dogs.  [[Antioxidants]] can help reduce or reverse damage from [[hyperglycemia]].  [[Chromium]] can help lower [[blood glucose level]]s,  [[L-Carnitine]] plus a calorie-restricted diet can control weight, and [http://laurieulrich.com/jasper/ Methyl-B12] can help reverse diabetic [[neuropathy]].
+Baba Booey!
+==Supplements==
+Certain dietary [[:Category:supplements|supplements]] can help with diabetic cats and dogs. [[Antioxidants]] can help reduce or reverse damage from [[hyperglycemia]]. [[Chromium]] can help lower [[blood glucose level]]s, [[L-Carnitine]] plus a calorie-restricted diet can control weight, and [http://laurieulrich.com/jasper/ Methyl-B12] can help reverse diabetic [[neuropathy]].
 ==Further reading==
-[[Image:Wikicat.jpg|100px]]
+[[Image:Wikicat3.jpg|100px]]
-*[http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/index.html Janet & Binky's page -- contains nutrient content charts and nutrient calculation FAQ's - Recommended!]
+*[[:Category:Feline low-carb cases|Wiki cases--Feline Low-Carb Diet]]
-*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=16562724&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum Diabetes Mellitus in the Cat-Schweizer Archiv fuer Tierheilkunde-2006-Abstract in English]
+*[http://binkyspage.tripod.com/CanFoodNew.html Janet & Binky's page -- contains nutrient content charts and nutrient calculation FAQ's - Recommended!]
+*[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=16562724&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum Diabetes Mellitus in the Cat-Schweizer Archiv fuer Tierheilkunde-2006-Abstract in English]
 *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=16275041&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum Comparison of a Low Carbohydrate-Low Fiber Diet and a Moderate Carbohydrate-High Fiber Diet in the Management of Feline Diabetes Mellitus-Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery-2006]
-*[http://www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/dosesrvy.html The FDMB Diet and Dosage survey, n=69]
+*[http://web.archive.org/20050222043630/www.geocities.com/jmpeerson/dosesrvy.html The FDMB Diet and Dosage survey, n=69]
 *The "catkins" diet at [http://www.catnutrition.org/vetletter.html CatNutrition.org] and [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=16452 MedicalNewsToday] and [http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/learn/about/press/Catkins.asp Morris Animal Foundation]
 *[http://www.felinefuture.com/nutrition/bpo_ch4.php A rare cat food company that promotes species-appropriate food]
 *[http://leda.law.harvard.edu/leda/data/784/Patrick06.html Recent Harvard Study on poor regulation of pet food safety and suitability]
 *[http://www.maxshouse.com/feline_nutrition.htm Max's House Feline Nutrition site]
-*[http://www.catinfo.org/zorans_article.pdf The Carnivore Connection to Nutrition in Cats by Dr. Debra Zoran]
+*[http://web.archive.org/web/20040609152425/http://www.catinfo.org/zorans_article.pdf The Carnivore Connection to Nutrition in Cats by Dr. Debra Zoran]
 *[http://www.catnutrition.org/diabetes.htm Diabetes and Diet in felines by Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins]
 *[http://www.nutrition.org/cgi/content/full/134/8/2072S Causes of feline/canine diabetes by J.S. Rand et al, Queensland U]
-*[http://catinfo.org/ The basics of feline nutrition by Dr. Lisa Pearson]
+*[http://catinfo.org/ The basics of feline nutrition by Dr. Lisa Pierson]
 *[http://www.felinediabetes.com/diabetic-cat-diets.htm Cat diet information resources]
 *[http://www.felinediabetes.com/DietaryRecs_Greco.htm Diet recommendations for DM by Dr. Deborah Greco]
-*[http://vettechs.blogspot.com/2006/02/feline-diabetes-is-nutrition-key-to.html Why cats don't need carbohydrates]
+*[http://web.archive.org/20060305210843/vettechs.blogspot.com/2006/02/feline-diabetes-is-nutrition-key-to.html Why cats don't need carbohydrates]
 *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16275041&query_hl=15 Low carb-low fiber diet better than a moderate carb-high fiber diet by N. Bennett et al, Colorado State University]
 *[http://groups.msn.com/FDLibrary/dietnutrition.msnw?action=get_message&mview=0&ID_Message=235&LastModified=4675517016380545821 Low but not ''too'' low by the FDMB wise ones]
 *[http://gorbzilla.com/diet_tips.htm 10 Good Reasons NOT to change that diet Just Yet!]
 *[http://www.felinediabetes.com/phorum5/read.php?8,264017 Testimonial -- switching to canned food has made all the difference]
+*[http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/petdiabetes/images/7/71/Abstracts2006_acvim.pdf Delayed Gastric Emptying, Prolonged Postprandial Hyperglycemia and High Carbohydrate Diets in Cats. ACVIM 2006-Page 22, Abstract #61]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org/dog-ear-infection Dog ear infection]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org/pancreatitis-in-dogs Pancreatitis in dogs]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org Ivermectin for dogs]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org/how-long-are-dogs-pregnant-before-they-giving-birth How long are dogs pregnant ]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org/why-do-dogs-eat-grass Why do dogs eat grass ]
+*[http://ivermectinfordogs.org/save-5-off-with-purina-dog-chow-coupons Purina dog chow coupons ]
+[[Image:Wikicat3.jpg|100px]][[Image:Wikidog3.jpg|100px]]
-[[Image:Wikicat.jpg|100px]][[Image:Wikidog.jpg|100px]]
 *[http://www.mercola.com/2005/mar/2/pet_food_labels.htm Formula] for calculating the amount of carbohydrates in pet food.
@@ Line 78: / Line 108: @@
 *[http://www.merrickpetcare.com/store/ Merrick Pet Foods--Dogs & Cats--Online Store--Free Shipping to Contiguous US]
 *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=15833567&query_hl=3&itool=pubmed_DocSum Nutrition for Aging Cats and Dogs and the Importance of Body Condition Veterinary Clinics of North America Small Animal Practice 2005]
-*[http://www.royalcanin.us/documents/OSUProceedings.pdf OSU Endocrinology Symposium-2006-Feeding the Diabetic Patient-Page 33]
+*[http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/petdiabetes/images/8/87/2006symposiumproceedings.pdf OSU Endocrinology Symposium-2006-Feeding the Diabetic Patient-Page 33]
+*[http://www.a1dogtraining.com/veterinary_services.htm Listing of Excellent Screened Vets who routinely treat diabetic pets in the Long Island NY area ]
+*[http://dogfoodselector.com/diabetic-dog/ What Should I Feed My Diabetic Dog?]
-[[Category:Diet]][[Category:Treatments]][[Category:Introduction]]
 ==References==
 <references/>
+[[Category:Diet]]
+[[Category:Treatments]]
+[[Category:Introduction]]