With a 900 per cent increase in cases of diabetes among pets in the last five years, it seems a good time to evaluate what we’re feeding our pets. Follow our guide’s alternative options to keep your pet in tip top condition. There has been a 1,161 per cent increase of diabetes cases in cats since 2011, with dogs seeing an 850 per cent rise. This significant increase is a result of owners feeding their pets human food and high-calorie treats, which links with the reality that our pets are becoming ‘humanised’ and increasingly ‘pampered’.

In the UK, it is estimated that half of all dogs and cats are overweight, which is one of the main reasons diabetes in pets is on the up.

Andrew Bucher, co-founder and Chief Veterinary Officer at MedicAnimal, commented: “Our pets are without a doubt valued members of the family and as such they are becoming humanised. It is important to keep treats as treats and not regular snacks to prevent obesity and knock on health effects. Many pet treats are high in calories, fat and sugar, which can be bad for them if not regulated.”

Top healthy treats for your pets:

  1.     Bailey Bites Skinnies! Handmade with natural ingredients, Skinnies contain a delicious combination of chicken and herbs
  2.     Carrots – healthy skin and coat as well as improved vitality for very few calories. The crunchiness acts like a chew to keep your dog occupied while cleaning their teeth
  3.     Lactose-free milk for cats – it is a common myth that milk is good for cats. It isn’t great for their waistlines and can cause upset tummies. If you do wish to give your cat milk, make sure its lactose-free (lactose is the sugar in milk)
  4.     Apples – similarly to carrots, dogs love the crunchy texture and sweet taste. They contain plenty of calcium and vitamins, but remember to remove the core and pips as they contain cyanogenic glycosides
  5.     Trixie Roller Pop – a handy roll-on bottle with tasty liquid for your cat. This treat is not only long-lasting but is low in calories too
  6.     Raw bones – next time you pop to the butchers, ask for any raw bones. Chewing on the right kind of bone is great for dogs’ teeth, removing plaque and any build up which prevents gum disease. They also contain large amounts of calcium and phosphorus. Though don’t feed dogs cooked bones as they can splinter causing potential harm to your pup’s digestive system
  7.     Catnip – catnip will keep your cat happy while livening up your windowsill. If you have the outdoor space you could even go as far as to create your own kitty garden!

(8)    Ice cubes – despite rumours, ice cubes are perfectly safe, cheap and easy to use to both cool down and hydrate your dog or cat. The other bonus is that they seem to love it!!