How long does it take to recover from a fur shot?

[FluffBunny]

Gomez got a fur shot 2 days ago. His BG was high, but at least it didn't go black that day. However, since then, his numbers have remained high and I am concerned about whether or not his insulin is still good (using this vial for 2 months) and whether or not I am actually getting the insulin into him. In other words, all the standard worries. The good news is, he has been testing negative for ketones - both at home today and at the vet on Saturday.

I want to increase his dose to 2.5, but I am afraid to change anything until I am convinced he is back to his normal cycle. Can anyone tell me how long a fur shot is likely to impact his curve?

Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences with this.

 

[Sandy and Black Kitty]

Any history of ketones?

Which method are you following -- SLGS or TR? In either case it's advisable to wait at least 6 cycles before making a decision on dose changes, unless the numbers call for a reduction.

It looks like he was starting to clear the bounce from green on 10/4 s AM cycle when the fur shot happened. It was the 4th cycle after the green.
When a fur shot happens the cycle count starts over. You are currently cycle 5 since the fur shot.

Regarding your insulin, is it clear or foggy? Any little particles visible floating in the insulin? if any of these apply then the insulin is indeed toast.
You might consider having the vet shave the area you shoot - it may help to not have fur in the way.

 

[FluffBunny]

Thanks for your reply. My insulin looks clear and there are no particles in it that I can see. I have a new pen that I can start to use. Maybe I'll try that tomorrow. I did have the vet shave him Saturday. I don't know why I am so uncertain about the insulin going in. When I gave him the fur shot, I knew what I did because his fur felt wet. I haven't experienced that since. I just tested him again and he has gone up since his shot. This is so frustrating. He was starting to improve with his numbers when I had to go away for 2 days. I boarded him at the Pet ER, but he wouldn't eat so they had to skip some shots. Then I started to get him back on track when I gave him the fur shot. I want to cry.

 

[Joanne&TinySole]

I want to cry.

We've all been there. I still consider myself to be new and learning as fast as I can.
Please try not to be so hard on yourself.
This is new, uncharted, scary territory.
Clearly you are a conscientious person, or you wouldn't be trying so hard to help Gomez.
Keep breathing and hang in there.
I may be close to being correct when I say that missed shots of any kind will take about 12-hour six cycles (3 days) before you are back on track.
Don't quote me on that! Some of the experienced cat and dad beans can give you a more clear answer than I'm able to, but I think I'm close.

The same thing happened to me with Tiny Sole when I had scheduled vacation time and shots weren't given as needed, etc.
Eventually she got on track, then I got off track because one of my other cats is sick, so I'm playing catch-up too.
I send you patience and forgiveness and a whole lot of love.

 

[Sandy and Black Kitty]

Then I started to get him back on track when I gave him the fur shot. I want to cry.

Oh if I had a dollar for each of my furshots...I’ve even given back to back (2 consecutive) furshots. My specialty was shooting through the tent...

I see by the ss that Gomez had a nice yelloay amps and as of +4 he is blue

It’s all good.

 

[Sue and Luci]

I am concerned about whether or not his insulin is still good (using this vial for 2 months)

As long as your vial of Lantus has been refrigerated at all times it should last for months and months. My Lantus was purchased on Jan 6 of this year - we're almost at the end - Luci was under 50 again today - I don't think the Lantus is bad - just give your Gomez a little more time to get used to getting it again - it takes time for the depot to rebuild. His high numbers just require more time mama..more time...Someone will send you patience pants if you need them...I have to wear mine all the time...and have worn them out...best to you - trust that time and the right amount of insulin and food will get him there...he's actually looking better already IMHO...those blues are nice to see

 

[Molly and Sammy]

I bought a tiny battery-operated shaver on Amazon to clear the "shot spot" my vet had created when Sammy first went on insulin. His fur had grown back over it, and since he's a ginger cat the skin can be hard to see. Since then, no fur shots. I'm sure more will occur due to a wiggly cat, but at least now I can see my target! Good luck...