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Pets Health

Best Pet Insulin & Diabetes Medications

Updated March 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
ProZinc Insulin for Dogs & Cats
ProZinc
Insulin for Dogs & Cats
Works Well & Saves Money

A reliable alternative to Humulin that works similarly but is more affordable. A great option for pet owners who want an effective insulin as well as to save a bit of money treating their pets.

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Works Well & Saves Money
Bottom Line

A reliable alternative to Humulin that works similarly but is more affordable. A great option for pet owners who want an effective insulin as well as to save a bit of money treating their pets.

Pros

Protamine zinc insulin that is similar to human insulin but costs less. Can be used in dogs and cats. Cat owners rave about how well it works for their pets. Ships fast and efficiently with cold-packing to keep it fresh. Works well for most pets.

Cons

Just like with any insulin, hypoglycemia is possible if proper diet and veterinarian recommendations are not followed. Rare reports of insulin vials not being completely full upon arrival.

Best Bang for the Buck
Animal Necessity DiaVetin Natural Diabetic Dog & Cat Supplement
Animal Necessity
DiaVetin Natural Diabetic Dog & Cat Supplement
Supplements Insulin

While it won't control insulin-dependent diabetes by itself, this supplement contains ingredients that may make keeping your pets blood sugar a bit easier and more effective.

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Supplements Insulin
Bottom Line

While it won't control insulin-dependent diabetes by itself, this supplement contains ingredients that may make keeping your pets blood sugar a bit easier and more effective.

Pros

Formulated by vets with enzymes, vitamins, and nutrients to lower blood sugar naturally. May result in diabetes control with lower insulin dosages in some pets with monitoring by a vet. Can also be helpful for pets that don't quite need insulin. Suitable for dogs and cats. No prescription required.

Cons

Won't replace insulin in insulin-dependent pets. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels and diet is a must. Won't work for all pets.

Glipizide (Generic) Tablets
Glipizide (Generic)
Tablets
Feline Oral Medication

If your cat has type II diabetes that can be managed without insulin, Glipizide is an effective medication in pill-form that works well for most felines, with the exception of those that develop severe side effects.

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Feline Oral Medication
Bottom Line

If your cat has type II diabetes that can be managed without insulin, Glipizide is an effective medication in pill-form that works well for most felines, with the exception of those that develop severe side effects.

Pros

This prescription medication helps lower blood sugar levels in pets with type II diabetes and in cats that aren't insulin dependent. Comes in small pills that are easy to administer to most cats. Available in two strengths.

Cons

You must monitor your cat's blood sugar levels closely, as this medication may cause them to drop too low. Can also cause upset stomach and loss of appetite. Not for dogs.

Humulin N Insulin
Humulin
N Insulin
Trusted Brand

Humulin has a reputation for being effective at managing both feline and canine diabetes, but there are other, less expensive options available on today's market.

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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line

Humulin has a reputation for being effective at managing both feline and canine diabetes, but there are other, less expensive options available on today's market.

Pros

Human insulin that's been a tried and trusted option for pets for decades. Highly effective for most dogs and cats. Trusted by vets and pet owners for the results it delivers. Arrives well-packaged with cold packs, and ships quickly.

Cons

Can result in insulin resistance in pets with hard-to-control blood sugar levels. Side effects common to insulin use such as lethargy and coma can occur if not monitored closely. Priciest option.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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First Reviewed
November 08, 2021
57
Models
considered
28
Hours
researched
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Jennifer Manfrin
Written by Jennifer Manfrin

Updated March 2024

It’s frightening to get the diagnosis from your veterinarian that your pet has diabetes, but it usually doesn’t mean you can’t have many more years of enjoyment with your best friend. Just like diabetic humans rely on insulin, these life-saving medications are available for cats and dogs. The type of insulin and dosage that your diabetic pet will need will be determined by your vet, and can keep her from experiencing complications and further problems when given accordingly. In addition, medication in pill form is suitable for some cats that don't require insulin. There are also some natural supplements available for diabetic cats and dogs, but typically must be used in conjunction with prescribed insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.  

Our Top Picks
ProZinc
Best of the Best
ProZinc
Insulin for Dogs & Cats
Bottom Line
A reliable alternative to Humulin that works similarly but is more affordable. A great option for pet owners who want an effective insulin as well as to save a bit of money treating their pets.
Shop Now
Animal Necessity
Best Bang for the Buck
Animal Necessity
DiaVetin Natural Diabetic Dog & Cat Supplement
Bottom Line
While it won't control insulin-dependent diabetes by itself, this supplement contains ingredients that may make keeping your pets blood sugar a bit easier and more effective.
Shop Now
Glipizide (Generic)
Top Pick
Glipizide (Generic)
Tablets
Bottom Line
If your cat has type II diabetes that can be managed without insulin, Glipizide is an effective medication in pill-form that works well for most felines, with the exception of those that develop severe side effects.
Shop Now
Humulin
Top Pick
Humulin
N Insulin
Bottom Line
Humulin has a reputation for being effective at managing both feline and canine diabetes, but there are other, less expensive options available on today's market.
Shop Now
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