ReliOn meters are widely used by caregivers on the Feline Diabetes Message Board (FDMB) because they are affordable, simple, and generally reliable. One topic that repeatedly causes confusion is control solution, whether it is required, when to use it, and how important it really is in real-world home testing. This article explains what ReliOn control solution is along with key points gathered directly from ReliOn’s own instructions.
What ReliOn Control Solution Is
Control solution is a liquid containing a known amount of glucose. It is used to verify that the meter and test strips are functioning correctly as a system, not to calibrate or “adjust” the meter. When the solution is tested on a strip, the reading should fall within the acceptable range printed on the test strip vial. If it does, the meter and strips are considered to be working properly.
Control solution checks system function only. It does not prove exact accuracy, and it does not calibrate the meter. ReliOn also specifies that the control solution is designed for use only with compatible ReliOn meters and matching test strips.
Is Control Solution Required?
Many ReliOn users become confused because some materials suggest the meter must be calibrated with control solution, particularly when opening a new vial of strips. In practice, modern ReliOn meters are factory calibrated, routine calibration is not typically required, and many caregivers do not use control solution regularly. Some older materials appeared to imply calibration, which contributed to confusion.
ReliOn’s guidance is that control solution should be used when verifying the system or troubleshooting, not as a required step before everyday testing.
When Control Solution Is Useful
Even though it is not required for routine testing, control solution has clear and legitimate uses. It is most helpful when something about the readings or equipment seems questionable. ReliOn recommends using control solution in the following situations:
- When opening a new vial of test strips
- When results do not match the cat’s clinical condition
- When the meter or test strips may not be working properly
- After the meter has been dropped, damaged, or exposed to moisture
- If test strips may have been exposed to heat, humidity, or improper storage
- When verifying a system that has not been used for an extended period
In all cases, the purpose is the same, to confirm the meter and strips are functioning normally before assuming the glucose result itself is incorrect.
What Caregivers Typically Do
Across FDMB discussions, many caregivers do not use control solution routinely. Instead, they focus on glucose trends over time, repeat-testing unusual numbers, and comparing readings with the cat’s real-world condition such as appetite, behavior, and possible hypoglycemia symptoms. In practice, control solution is usually treated as a troubleshooting tool rather than a regular step. This reflects how home testing is performed day to day, which often differs from strict instruction-manual usage.
How to Use ReliOn Control Solution
Using control solution is similar to performing a normal glucose test, except the liquid is used instead of blood. A test strip is inserted into the meter and the control solution bottle is gently shaken. ReliOn recommends discarding the first drop, placing a small drop on a clean, non-absorbent surface, and bringing the strip to the drop rather than touching the bottle tip directly to the strip to avoid contamination. The meter reading is then compared to the acceptable range printed on the test strip vial. If the result falls within that range, the meter and strips are considered to be functioning properly. The goal is not a specific number, but confirmation that the result falls within the expected range.
The solution should be stored tightly closed at room temperature, never used past its expiration date, and handled carefully since it can stain fabric. If results fall outside the acceptable range, ReliOn advises repeating the test and checking for possible causes such as expired strips, improper storage, contaminated solution tip, or meter damage.
How to Get Free ReliOn Control Solution
ReliOn provides control solution directly to users and it can often be requested online at no cost depending on current supply programs. Some users are able to request additional bottles periodically, often around every ten weeks.
https://supplies.relionbgm.com/
Conclusion
ReliOn control solution is a verification tool, not a routine requirement. It confirms that the meter and test strips are functioning together correctly, but it does not calibrate the meter and does not guarantee perfect accuracy. Most caregivers only use it when troubleshooting questionable readings, suspected strip issues, or possible meter problems. In everyday home testing, consistent glucose patterns and the cat’s clinical condition remain more meaningful than occasional control testing.
