1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
SEARCH
Diet and Nutrition for Diabetic Cats
My cat has diabetes - what should I feed it?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their natural diet consists primarily of animal proteins and fats, with minimal carbohydrates. This physiological characteristic significantly influences how diabetic cats should be fed. Unlike humans and some other animals, cats have limited carbohydrate metabolism, making them particularly sensitive to dietary sugars and starches. Proper diet management can improve insulin sensitivity, stabilise blood glucose levels, and reduce the risk of diabetic complications.
Nutritional components for diabetic cats
High protein: A high-protein diet is fundamental in managing cat diabetes. Protein helps maintain muscle mass and provides sustained energy without spiking blood glucose levels. Studies suggest that feeding diabetic cats a diet with at least 40-50% protein on a dry matter basis can help manage blood sugar levels more effectively.
Low carbohydrate: Cats with diabetes benefit from a diet low in carbohydrates, typically less than 10% on a dry matter basis. Carbohydrates are rapidly converted to glucose in the bloodstream, which can cause significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels in diabetic cats. A low-carbohydrate diet minimises these fluctuations, making blood glucose easier to manage.
Moderate fats: While fats are an essential energy source, especially in carnivorous diets, the fat content should be moderate to avoid excessive calorie intake, which can lead to obesity. Balancing healthy fats and calorie control is vital for managing body weight and preventing further metabolic issues.
Fibre: Soluble and insoluble fibres can help regulate glucose absorption and improve gastrointestinal health in diabetic cats. Diets for diabetic cats that include moderate levels of fibre can aid in controlling postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar spikes. However, not all diabetic cats benefit from a high-fibre diet, and a veterinarian should assess individual needs.
Calorie control: Caloric intake should be closely monitored, especially for those who are overweight or obese. Weight loss in obese cats can improve insulin sensitivity and overall glycemic control. Portion control and feeding frequency should be tailored to maintain optimal body weight and prevent fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Feeding strategies for diabetic cats
Consistency: Regular feeding schedules are advised, particularly for insulin therapy patients. Consistent meal timing helps synchronise insulin administration with nutrient absorption, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Most diabetic cats are fed two to three times daily, aligned with their insulin regimen.
Prescription diets: Veterinarians may recommend prescription diets formulated specifically for diabetic cats. These diets are carefully balanced to provide high protein, low carbohydrate, and appropriate fibre levels. Consulting with your veterinarian is advised.
Wet food vs. dry food: Wet food is often preferred over dry food because it generally contains fewer carbohydrates and more moisture. Increased moisture intake is beneficial for urinary tract health, which can be compromised in diabetic cats. Dry foods formulated for diabetic cats can still be used but should be chosen carefully to ensure low carbohydrate content.
Home-prepared diets: Some cat owners opt for home-prepared diets to control the specific ingredients and nutrient content of their diabetic cat’s food. However, these diets must be carefully formulated under veterinary supervision to ensure they meet all of the cat’s nutritional needs and do not inadvertently cause nutritional deficiencies.
Monitoring and adjustments: Ongoing monitoring of blood glucose levels, body weight, and overall health is essential in managing diabetes in cats. Adjustments to the diet may be necessary based on the cat’s response to treatment, changes in body weight, or alterations in insulin sensitivity.
Diet and nutrition are integral components of managing diabetes in cats. A high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, consistent meal timing, and careful calorie control can help stabilise blood glucose levels and improve a cat’s overall quality of life. Whether using prescription diets, wet food, or carefully prepared home diets, the key is to work closely with a veterinarian to tailor a dietary plan that meets the specific needs of a diabetic cat. Through proper diet management and regular monitoring, diabetic cats can achieve better health outcomes and lead more comfortable, stable lives.
“Consistent feeding schedules help support insulin therapy.”
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a diabetic cat eat?
Diabetic cats typically benefit from a high-protein diet that reflects their natural carnivorous physiology. This type of diet provides energy while helping minimise spikes in blood glucose levels.
Why is protein important in a diabetic cat’s diet?
Protein helps maintain muscle mass and provides energy without rapidly increasing blood sugar levels. Many diabetic cat diets aim for around 40–50% protein on a dry matter basis.
Does fibre play a role in diabetic cat nutrition?
Moderate fibre levels may help control blood sugar spikes after meals in some cats. However, dietary needs can vary, so a veterinarian should guide diet selection.
How often should diabetic cats be fed?
Most diabetic cats are fed two or three meals per day. Meal timing is often coordinated with insulin administration to help maintain stable glucose levels.
Can weight management help diabetic cats?
Yes. Weight loss in overweight cats can improve insulin sensitivity and help stabilise blood glucose levels.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeaways
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their natural diet is primarily animal protein and fat with minimal carbohydrates.
A high-protein diet can help maintain muscle mass and stabilise blood glucose levels in diabetic cats.
Consistent feeding schedules are important, especially when insulin therapy is used.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
on 
Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed