If you have a cat with diabetes you likely know their diet is special and is quite controlled now. But can diabetic cats have treats? Some people may advise against giving treats to a diabetic cat, as it can raise their blood sugar levels if the treat has any sugars and carbohydrates. Depending on your cat’s condition, proceed with caution. Consult your vet first and foremost. We’re just here to give ideas about some good options.
If you’d like to read more about cat diabetes check out main article Best Dry Food for Diabetic Cats in 2024
Which Treats Not to Feed a Diabetic Cat?
Kibble. Carbs. Grains. Kibble has carbs and grains. Avoid crunchy treats. Rice, potatoes, peas, sweet potatoes are all filler carbs even if the cat food is trying to sell you an idea of a healthier option. If it has any of the listed ingredients – best to stay clear. Grain-free does NOT mean carb-free. Your diabetic cat needs the food of its ancestors, as natural as humanly possible. Wet food of good quality would be the best option for a diabetic cat.
What Are the Safe Cat Treats for Diabetic Cats?
When it comes to treats that are safe even for diabetic cats, make sure to choose something that doesn’t spike their blood sugar level. There are several safe options for your diabetic cat when it comes to treats:
- Freeze-dried treats
- Grain-free treats
- Homemade meat treats
- Prescription diabetic cat treats
- Dried fish or shrimp
Aim to choose as natural a snack as possible. Freeze-dried treats are a good option because they are essentially dried meat. As long as it doesn’t have additives harmful for diabetic cats, it may be an okay option. You would have to consult with your vet however, as any extra treats may not be good for the cats who already struggle with weight.
If you are considering making your own treats or switching your cat to raw food, check out our article on Best Raw Food for Diabetic Cats 2024.
Can Diabetic Cats Have Treats?
As long as the food is carb-free and sugar free, a diabetic cat can have treats in moderation. Be mindful of the timing when you give your cat a treat, to avoid spiking their sugar levels. Avoid giving your cat treats that are creamy or very oily. Avoid crunchy treats, these tend to be full of carbs. A good treat is something of pure meat, without carbs and added sugars.
Best Cat Treats for Diabetic Cats
You may need to use your best judgement when it comes to choosing treats. Find out from your vet exactly what’s safe for your cat, how often, and fish for that information on the back of the label. Your cat’s health is on the line.
Real Nature Wilderness brand by Maxizoo, has freeze dried chicken hearts and shrimp cat snacks.
Miamor Sensible Chicken Snack is a freeze dried chicken cubes option.
DeliBest Cat Snack offers a semi moist snack without added sugars, grains, or artificial aromatics.
Pets Purest Sprats is a 100% natural dried sprats snack that is high in Omega 3. Suitable for diabetic cats due to high levels of protein and zero carbs.
Can Diabetic Cats Have Tuna?
A tuna treat in water is fine, but oily canned tuna may not be the best. It can have too many calories. Canned tuna can only be an occasional treat, not much at a time and no more than 2-3 times a week. Large fish like tuna contain mercury which can buildup in your cat’s system.
Can Too Many Cat Treats Cause Diabetes?
Diabetes is a complex condition which is not caused by smaller snacks alone. If your cat eats too much on a regular basis, that can lead to obesity, which in turn can lead to developing type II feline diabetes. Cats can easily overeat on kibble if they are free fed. Which is why it is important to control their portions and generally feed them wet food instead.
Factors like their daily activity levels, exercise, body weight, genetics, and the amount of carbs consumed can affect this. Cats are not designed to live off of carbohydrates alone (which is most kibble) and over the course of several years they may develop insulin resistance. And that can lead to diabetes unfortunately.
Can I Give Eggs to My Diabetic Cat?
In tiny amounts, cooked eggs are a good source of protein. Make sure to boil the egg without any spices, salt or butter. Always consult your vet however, as eggs should not be given on a daily basis in excess. Different cats have different needs. If you are interested in homemade meals for diabetic cats, check out this cat cookbook which has a ton of recipes tailored specifically for diabetic cats.
Feline Gastronomic Handbook for Diabetic Cats
Conclusion
While you should still be cautious about giving your diabetic cat treats, some treats are a much healthier option. Freeze-dried snacks, cooked/boiled egg, dry small fish like sprats and shrimp, home-made meat treats are all good options. The unsuitable snacks are the crunchy snacks. They often have filler grains and carbs. Avoid snacks with sugar and questionable content. And always always always consult with your vet. They would be able to provide the best advice on your cat’s needs.