In the contemporary, rapidly evolving environment, our pets frequently partake in more than merely occupying our homes; they also engage in our way of life. With the increasing prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among our animal companions, it is evident that maintaining a balanced diet is not merely a luxury but an essential requirement.

Is diabetes genetic or epigenetic?

Diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are often considered to have a genetic basis. However, diabetes is exceedingly uncommon or nearly nonexistent in dogs and cats that consume freshly prepared, grain-free diets composed of meat, bones, organs, and vegetables. According to Pet Nutritionist Anjali Kalachand, diet is undoubtedly one of the epigenetic factors influencing the occurrence of diabetes.

Diet and lifestyle tips for healthier pets

• It is essential to provide a diet that is fresh and composed of ingredients suitable for each species. Dogs are classified as omnivores, or facultative carnivores, while cats are obligate carnivores. Consequently, the primary component of their diet should consist of meat protein. In reality, they do not require starchy carbohydrates in their meals; while these may be advantageous in specific situations, they should not be included in excessive quantities.

• Often, we feed treats to our pets without reading the labels – avoid treats with wheat, gluten, starchy carbs, preservatives, colouring and high sodium content. Stick to clean treats that are preservative-free. Moving a dog or cat who has diabetes to a fresh species-appropriate diet may not reverse diabetes completely but could help reduce the insulin dosage.
• The other epigenetic factor is obesity, which can be managed by feeding your pet the right diet, one that's free from starchy carbs and fillers, while ensuring the proper caloric intake. If you're unsure how much to feed your pet, check out A Better Life’s Calorie Calculator for guidance.
• Help maintain blood sugar levels and keep weight in check with a regular exercise schedule and playtime. For cats, you can encourage movement with cat trees to climb, and scratching poles and climbing structures encourage movement as they would in their natural habitat.
• Regular blood tests are important in order to monitor this so as to ensure that diabetes or hypertension are caught early
• Hypertension is often secondary to other conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism. Managing the primary conditions can prevent the onset of hypertension.
• And finally, chronic stress can also cause hypertension – so try to keep your dog's environment as calm as possible. Again, engage in activities that help relaxation, like exercise, sniffing, and other interactive puzzle games.

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