macaw with diabetes

[gatornic]

i have a macaw who is about 52 years old. he was just diagnosed with diabetes.
the vet told us to keep him on a high protein diet. he's not getting insulin shots.
should glipizide be given?
is it safe for older macaws?

[mmr]

Bird right up my alley, as I am a diabetic. If your vet didn't recomend the glipizide, then I wouldn't give it without consulting. Being a diabetic I will tell you that Pastas are now a no no along with fruit and some veggies to stay away from also. Here is a list of veggies that are high in sugar

Acorn Squash
Artichoke

Baked Beans

Beets

Brussel Sprouts

Butternut Squash

Carrots

Corn

Leeks

Parsnips

Peas
Potatoes

Rutabaga

White Rice

Yams -

Myself having this as a human I also know that the same pretty much applies to animals. This is a very serious problem and needs to be closely watched by your avian vet at all times. Please consult with your vet at all times regarding any questions! Here is also a good link to peek at:

Diabetes in Birds

[Monica]

Also, if the macaw is eating pellets, then he should probably be switched over to an organic pellet if he's not on one already... Some of the cheaper pellet companies use sugar in their pellets.

[papayamama]

Im diabetic also. I agree stick with what your vet told you. Fruit has a lot of sugar in them aswell as some pellets. Ask your vet what brand of pellets is best for him if you already haven't. MMR is right pastas are very high in carbs which raises my blood sugar to the roof. I would stay away from breads as well. I can't imagine having a bird with diabetes. It's hard enough taking care of myself. I wish you the best of luck.