First Home Test Attempt Was A Disaster

[Cherish4]

Yes, that is a very good sign indeed. Celebrate all successes!

While you're not testing blood is there any chance you might be able to try to test his pee? It's not the same as a blood glucose test but in the absence of that can still give very useful info.

Eliz

If I can get some glucose strips cheaply then yes maybe (would have to order online as not available locally). Having spent money on ketone sticks, a meter, extra lancets, extra strips etc.. money is a bit tight right now but I could see what Amazon has got.

 

[Cherish4]

I was given syringe needles at the start too. I switched eventually to the lancet but I only put it in the trigger device as a holder. I free hand the pokes.

I could ask my vet about syringes but at the end of the day, whatever I use will only work if I can get him to cooperate!

 

[Cherish4]

Hi @Cherish4,

We were in your shoes until a couple of weeks ago and I know how frustrated you must feel I kept reading threads on FDMB about testing, watched countless videos on how to do it and yet we still failed We tried holding him, while he sleeps, while brushing him and nothing.

When we went to the vet, we asked if he could possibly show us and he was happy to. But instead of using the lancing device or a lancet, he used a syringe needle and did it with a very quick move. He gave us few syringe needles until we manage to buy more and sent us home. And that really worked for us. I was holding Perlutz in my arms, while gently pressing my head against him so he doesn't move but also because it calms him, I would talk to him and my bf would quickly prick his ear and we've been successful from the first attempt. The syringe needle and also seeing it done right in front of our eyes, on our cat, worked for us.

We've done it like this for few days but then we got confident and we are now using the lancing device. It's easier with the lancing device, especially for me (I'm squeamish for blood, needles and injections ). It's also a pain in the bum to buy syringe needles in UK, we've been given some interesting looks and got a LOT of questions on what they are for to the point I wanted to shout in the pharmacy that I don't use drugs! PS: we never managed to buy them, we got some more from the vet.

I don't know if the syringe needle is something others have tried or not, and I don't know if it's a method to be used on your own, we've always done it in 2. But I would definitely take the meter to the vet and asked him/her to show you.

Good luck, you can do it!

Thanks for sharing your experience with me, it is helpful to hear other perspectives. I'm not sure that syringes are going to be any better in my case, especially as I will be doing most of the testing alone. I can certainly try to get my vet to show me how to test, although she didn't seem keen on the idea that I was using a human rather than a pet meter. But I will ask if necessary.

 

[Diana&Tom]

Try not to despair, Lauren. These things do take time. Give yourself credit for everything you have learned so far about FD and see testing as just the next little hurdle to jump over when you can...

 

[Cherish4]

Try not to despair, Lauren. These things do take time. Give yourself credit for everything you have learned so far about FD and see testing as just the next little hurdle to jump over when you can...

I'm trying to. As you've probably worked out by now, I am not a person who finds it easy to be positive about situations. I never used to be like this but unfortunately circumstances have changed things and my anxiety often gets the better of me.

This place is helping a lot though I can tell you that. It makes me feel less alone in dealing with it, knowing that you're all here if I need advice or support. I have tried to engage with my brother over things but he just says to do what I believe is best. I think he still feels that I should have given Little B up when we got the diagnosis, so he's deliberately pulled away from it all.

Anyway, I intend to attempt testing again tomorrow so we'll see it goes.

 

[Diana&Tom]

Yes I do think your anxiety is holding you back, but you wouldn't be the only one. Many people here have faced and are still facing trying circumstances - health, money, work, domestic situations - and it is a real challenge to overcome negative feelings and start to make thngs better. This probably isn't the place to start waffling on about "everything happens for a reason" but I think that strength to improve our lot often comes from the need to do right not by ourselves but for someone else... in this case, our feline family. All of us here think the world of our kitties and there's nothng we wouldn't do to keep them safe and healthy. You read cases here of people spending their life savings on expensive medical treatments, for example. So I think you will conquer the testing issue, motivated by your bond with Little B. Success will give you confidence in yourself and you will start to feel more positive generally - and quite possibly, if you stick around as an ongoing member of this community, you can empathise and cheer on others going through the same early experiences as you are now.

Sorry for the lengthy para - hopefully you'll get the gist of what I mean. I'm glad you found us and that it's helpful if you need support. There are other forums here that you might like to look at too if you have time - Community, for example, where people all over the world share stories and experiences, some cat-related, some not. It's a great place to "meet" other members of FDMB and although you may never meet most of them in person, firm friendships can be struck up.

Good luck with today's test attempt! Be sure to have some little treats handy for both of you so that win or lose, you have something nice afterwards!

 

[Cherish4]

5th and 6th attempts yesterday were also failures. Shortly about to attempt a 7th go.

Just had a phone call from the vet about his fructosamine test, his numbers are high but not dangerously so. However they are recommending that he starts on insulin over the next week. I've got to find out how much the local RSPCA can help first.

This means of course that I've got to get the testing under control in the next few days now, I haven't got a choice.

I'm going to have a boat load of questions regarding insulin which I'm assuming I'd post in the relevant forum (I think they want to start him on caninsulin)?

Not going to lie, feeling really anxious again now. I knew it was going to be a long shot that he wouldn't need it but it's just with all the trouble I'm having with testing and now there's going to be injecting on top of that... feels really scary (I find the possibility that I could potentially make him really ill if I don't get the insulin right downright terrifying).

 

[Diana&Tom]

I think maybe with the testing it's a case of practise makes perfect - and trying to cultivate a "can do" attitude. I know that's easier said than done but that might be key to all this. Try not to use the word "failure" but instead, "didn't quite manage it this time but we'll keep trying" - or something.

What is it exactly about testing that you think is making it a problem? - we know he doesn't like having his ears touched, but if you can overcome that - try giving him a treat or two while you're doing it - what is it? Remember the key things - hold a small piece of folded warmed tissue (or something not too bulky) at the back of the ear and hold firmly with your left thumb and forefinger, then use the lancet in your right hand and prick quickly once or twice at the sweet spot. That should produce a bead of blood and if you can, massage the area gently to get a little more if needed (not sure about your meter but some need a bigger sample of blood than others). Then get your reading and give treats!

You will probably start on Caninsulin, yes, although if you have any choice in the matter and the vet is prepared to discuss it with you, there are other options. Tell the vet that you've been doing lots of reading on FD and ask questions.

Yes, you probably will have questions when you start on insulin and yes, it might be better to post on the relevant forum when you start to get testing data and have dosing questions, but until then I'd say stay put here where you'll get more generalised answers.

So it looks like it's all about the testing. It's true that some owners treating their pets for FD (not on this board) never test at all and just take their cat to the vet every few weeks for a curve. Maybe they've never heard of testing blood at home and the vet has never mentioned it. That's one way to proceed - but I think you know from what you've read here that actually it's pretty important to test if you want to keep your cat safe. So you're going to have to find a way that suits you one way or another... I think once you have one test under your belt it will give you a big boost so it's just breaking that barrier somehow...

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

5th and 6th attempts yesterday were also failures. Shortly about to attempt a 7th go.

Please don't see these as 'failures', Lauren. You may not have got a blood test but each of these attempts is an important step in the right direction.

FWIW, I'm having to work quite hard on my new foster cat, Bonbon, to get her to accept being tested. A number of times throughout the day I'm just touching or massaging one of her ears, just for a second or two, and then giving her a piece of her favourite treat. I let her smell the treats first (or rustle the bag so she can hear it), so she knows that a treat will be forthcoming...
She also loves to be brushed, so I'm brushing her and scratching her under the chin, and also sneaking in a few little ear massages, just briefly, among everything else that's going on.
If there are particular treats that Little B likes, or he likes to be groomed, both of these are opportunities to gently acclimatise him to having his ears touched, and to begin to get him to learn that it's no big deal. Or if he likes to snuggle up on your lap you can just begin to touch his ears a little while you're stroking him, very casually and just for a moment. It can be a slow process, so do be kind and patient with yourself, Lauren.

As Diana says above, many caregivers don't test their cats at all. But you are trying to test, and that is a wonderful thing to try to do. And anything you can achieve will be a 'bonus'.

As Diana also says it's most likely your vet will want to start you on Caninsulin, but more and more vets are following the RVC's recommendation and are prescribing Prozinc, which tends to work better in cats. Prozinc costs more per vial than Caninsulin does, but it may have a longer shelf life, so, if Little B is on a low dose that may end up not costing any more than the Caninsulin does.
I see from your profile that you've volunteered with Cats Protection. Is there any chance they will help you with costs? Or, have the RSPCA given any clear indication that they may help?

Eliz

 

[Cherish4]

What is it exactly about testing that you think is making it a problem? - we know he doesn't like having his ears touched, but if you can overcome that - try giving him a treat or two while you're doing it - what is it? Remember the key things - hold a small piece of folded warmed tissue (or something not too bulky) at the back of the ear and hold firmly with your left thumb and forefinger, then use the lancet in your right hand and prick quickly once or twice at the sweet spot. That should produce a bead of blood and if you can, massage the area gently to get a little more if needed (not sure about your meter but some need a bigger sample of blood than others). Then get your reading and give treats!

It's the whole thing that makes it difficult. I just can't warm his ear, prick it with the Lancet, get the blood (my meter only needs a small amount) and then stop the bleeding without him getting upset and pulling away or running away. He's just not getting over the whole ear touching thing, even though I've been trying to gently touch them every time I fuss him and giving him a treat afterwards. But because I can't warm them, I can't get any blood to appear even if I've managed to use the lancet without him getting away. I have tried fuss, I have tried treats, I have tried everything bar my brother holding him for me and that's not going to be possible all the time anyway.

You will probably start on Caninsulin, yes, although if you have any choice in the matter and the vet is prepared to discuss it with you, there are other options. Tell the vet that you've been doing lots of reading on FD and ask questions.

I will discuss other options but if the local RSPCA are going to pay for it, that may dictate which one he'll be able to have.

Yes, you probably will have questions when you start on insulin and yes, it might be better to post on the relevant forum when you start to get testing data and have dosing questions, but until then I'd say stay put here where you'll get more generalised answers.

Okay thanks. I do have a bunch of general questions about the whole process, so I'll probably try and start another thread to get some answers. I suspect that the vets may push for having him in when he starts insulin, so if I can show I've got the necessary knowledge then hopefully they'll be alright about me doing things at home.

 

[Cherish4]

FWIW, I'm having to work quite hard on my new foster cat, Bonbon, to get her to accept being tested. A number of times throughout the day I'm just touching or massaging one of her ears, just for a second or two, and then giving her a piece of her favourite treat. I let her smell the treats first (or rustle the bag so she can hear it), so she knows that a treat will be forthcoming...

I've tried this with Little B but he's not buying it. He still hates his ears being messed with.

She also loves to be brushed, so I'm brushing her and scratching her under the chin, and also sneaking in a few little ear massages, just briefly, among everything else that's going on.
If there are particular treats that Little B likes, or he likes to be groomed, both of these are opportunities to gently acclimatise him to having his ears touched, and to begin to get him to learn that it's no big deal. Or if he likes to snuggle up on your lap you can just begin to touch his ears a little while you're stroking him, very casually and just for a moment. It can be a slow process, so do be kind and patient with yourself, Lauren.

I do have to brush his fur from time to time but he doesn't really like it. He's not a lap cat either, nor does he like being picked up.

As Diana also says it's most likely your vet will want to start you on Caninsulin, but more and more vets are following the RVC's recommendation and are prescribing Prozinc, which tends to work better in cats. Prozinc costs more per vial than Caninsulin does, but it may have a longer shelf life, so, if Little B is on a low dose that may end up not costing any more than the Caninsulin does.

I will certainly bring up other options but if the local RSPCA end up agreeing to pay for it, I may not have much choice in which one to use.

I see from your profile that you've volunteered with Cats Protection. Is there any chance they will help you with costs? Or, have the RSPCA given any clear indication that they may help?

Eliz

Cats Protection don't help with ongoing veterinary costs. They help with neutering or the initial costs during adoption but that's it. I don't yet know if the RSPCA are going to be able to help with the insulin and syringes. They are only a small local branch and have already paid for some of his tests, so it will depend on how much financial resources they have.

 

[Cherish4]

I got a reading!

I tried putting him on the kitchen counter again and he struggled and got upset as hell, even though I gave him treats but I managed to get some blood and with my brother's help, I got some on the strip and hey presto, reading (21.2 mmol). He's currently hiding in the garden now and won't let me touch him but I'm hoping he'll calm down shortly.

Still finding it hard to see him get so stressed and I don't honestly think he's ever going to like it but as long as he doesn't end up resenting me or running away, I guess I will just have to learn to come to terms with it.

But I got a reading.

 

[Diana&Tom]

Hurray! So now you know it can be done, albeit with a struggle. The 21.2 is high and definitely warrants insulin, although it may be slightly elevated by stress. Give bim lots of fussing when he comes in and don't even attempt another one today, there's no point. But yes, this is something that both he and you are going to have to get used to and you will have to practise more so it becomes easier when you are actually giving insulin and need to check bg in order to shoot... it may be hard but try to counteract any negative with a positive and accept that it's for his benefit.

I think a glass of wine is in order!

 

[Cherish4]

Hurray! So now you know it can be done, albeit with a struggle. The 21.2 is high and definitely warrants insulin, although it may be slightly elevated by stress.

Yes I think stress has raised it slightly but I suspect it's not too far off his true level.

Give bim lots of fussing when he comes in and don't even attempt another one today, there's no point.

No don't worry I won't! He's actually due his flea treatment later so I think that'll be quite enough for one day!

But yes, this is something that both he and you are going to have to get used to and you will have to practise more so it becomes easier when you are actually giving insulin and need to check bg in order to shoot... it may be hard but try to counteract any negative with a positive and accept that it's for his benefit.

I will thanks. My aim is to try one again tomorrow and then two on Monday etc... He did pop back in to have a few more treats before disappearing again so at least he didn't run away for ages or anything.

I think a glass of wine is in order!

Indeed!

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

I got a reading!

Woohoo!

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

Lauren, there are some cats who really, really don't like their ears touched (although it's very early days with Little B as yet and he may come round).
Does Little B tolerate his paws being touched...? There are some folks who test the paws instead of the ears...

 

[Erin & Scott]

Fabulous! You did great! Maybe he’ll never get to where he likes it, but as long as he gets to where he’ll tolerate it, you’re in good shape. Congratulations on a job well done!

 

[Cherish4]

Lauren, there are some cats who really, really don't like their ears touched (although it's very early days with Little B as yet and he may come round).
Does Little B tolerate his paws being touched...? There are some folks who test the paws instead of the ears...

No, he doesn't like me touching his pads either unfortunately.

 

[Cherish4]

Fabulous! You did great! Maybe he’ll never get to where he likes it, but as long as he gets to where he’ll tolerate it, you’re in good shape. Congratulations on a job well done!

Thanks so much!

 

[Cherish4]

So I managed to get a reading again tonight. However he was even more upset and stressed than yesterday about it and struggled like crazy to get away from me. Naturally this meant that his reading (23.3 mmol) was higher than the previous one, so I've no idea what his actual BG level is. It didn't help that it took 3 pokes to get any blood. I still can't warm his ear properly beforehand, the best I can manage is warming the cotton pad I use whilst poking.

He ran outside again afterwards. I did manage to persuade him to come back in and have some treats and fuss but he's visibly traumatized over it. I've decided therefore that it's best to give him a break tomorrow and then I will try again Tuesday. Unfortunately I suspect his reaction will be the same.

I am genuinely concerned about this now. He's due to start insulin in the next few days and if he carries on being this stressed, how is he going to react when he has to be injected as well? How will I even know whether he should be given insulin if I can't get a true reading due to his stress?

 

[Diana&Tom]

Some cats do take a while to get used to tests and injections but most eventually come round...you need to find the magic way that works for your cat. Not sure if there's much to be gained by taking a day off from testing so maybe try a different method today - I think it's @Kris & Teasel who has described her own way here before, perhaps you would repeat it here please Kris?

I know this seems a mountain to climb but you do need to persevere as with bg in the 20s he really should be on insulin asap and yes, you should be testing before every shot as minimum. Do you have any friends at Cats Protection who you could ask to come to your house and help you get the knack - some people who haven't tested before but are very experienced handling cats might find it easier and less stressful, so you might be able to learn by seeing that it can be done. And maybe look at the videos on testing again. And/or, talk to the vet when you next go (to pick up insulin?) and explain the situation to them... their job is to support you in the treatment of your cat, after all. Maybe they have a friendly vet nurse who might pop round to help?

 

[Cherish4]

Some cats do take a while to get used to tests and injections but most eventually come round...you need to find the magic way that works for your cat.

Just wish I knew what that was. I hate seeing him so upset.

I know this seems a mountain to climb but you do need to persevere as with bg in the 20s he really should be on insulin asap and yes, you should be testing before every shot as minimum.

We're due at the vets on Wednesday to get his insulin. I'm having to wait a few days whilst I find out if the RSPCA can pay for it.

Do you have any friends at Cats Protection who you could ask to come to your house and help you get the knack - some people who haven't tested before but are very experienced handling cats might find it easier and less stressful, so you might be able to learn by seeing that it can be done.

Not really no. It's actually one of their charity shops that I volunteer at, nothing to do directly with cats. There is a lady who volunteers on a different day whom I think may have a cat so I could try to get her opinion. I do actually have experience of handling cats though, as we've had them all my life. It's just that whenever any of them needed medicine etc... it would be my mum and I that would do it together and I don't have that now so...

And/or, talk to the vet when you next go (to pick up insulin?) and explain the situation to them... their job is to support you in the treatment of your cat, after all. Maybe they have a friendly vet nurse who might pop round to help?

I will certainly ask the vet for some advice on it when we're there on Wednesday but I don't think they do things like sending vet nurses round.

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

I am genuinely concerned about this now. He's due to start insulin in the next few days and if he carries on being this stressed, how is he going to react when he has to be injected as well? How will I even know whether he should be given insulin if I can't get a true reading due to his stress?

Lauren, the cats often don't even notice the insulin shots, especially if they've got their face in a bowl of food. It's really a matter of gently grabbing and pulling up a bit of loose skin on the scruff of the neck, and injecting into that. It's done in a matter of seconds. You're not injecting into muscle or anything 'sensitive'. (Mama cats carry their kittens around by the scruff of the neck, and it doesn't hurt them at all.)

Regarding the testing, you could try what I'm doing with my foster kitty at the moment, and that is a bit of 'de-sensitization' and 'counter-conditioning' (there's a good little video about this below.).
Throughout the day I'm just holding Bonbon's ear for a moment or two, or giving the ear a little massage, and then quickly giving her a piece of her favourite treat. Then I do it once or twice more, and then walk away, or maybe I'll also give her a little grooming session. I don't touch her ear long enough for her to get stressed, I'm just trying to get her to become desensitized to having her ears touched, because the treat is the more important thing in the picture as far as she's concerned. I'm also clicking the lancing device near her and giving her a piece of treat. I want her to learn to associate the sound of the lancing device with something pleasurable. It's not necessarily a 'quick fix', but sometimes it actually can be just that. Some cats can learn very fast...

This little video is actually about getting a cat used to injections. But the same principles apply with hometesting.

 

[Cherish4]

Lauren, the cats often don't even notice the insulin shots, especially if they've got their face in a bowl of food. It's really a matter of gently grabbing and pulling up a bit of loose skin on the scruff of the neck, and injecting into that. It's done in a matter of seconds. You're not injecting into muscle or anything 'sensitive'. (Mama cats carry their kittens around by the scruff of the neck, and it doesn't hurt them at all.)

I would say that I find this reassuring but Little B is continuously demonstrating that he's not going to follow the rules easily at all!

Regarding the testing, you could try what I'm doing with my foster kitty at the moment, and that is a bit of 'de-sensitization' and 'counter-conditioning' (there's a good little video about this below.).
Throughout the day I'm just holding Bonbon's ear for a moment or two, or giving the ear a little massage, and then quickly giving her a piece of her favourite treat. Then I do it once or twice more, and then walk away, or maybe I'll also give her a little grooming session. I don't touch her ear long enough for her to get stressed, I'm just trying to get her to become desensitized to having her ears touched, because the treat is the more important thing in the picture as far as she's concerned. I'm also clicking the lancing device near her and giving her a piece of treat. I want her to learn to associate the sound of the lancing device with something pleasurable. It's not necessarily a 'quick fix', but sometimes it actually can be just that. Some cats can learn very fast...

This little video is actually about getting a cat used to injections. But the same principles apply with hometesting.

I have been trying the de-sensitization thing with his ears for the last few days but it's not making any difference. I'm not using the lancing device properly either as I'm finding it too difficult, I'm just using it to give me an extra bit to hold whilst I poke free hand. I could try putting it near him and then giving him a treat I suppose, like in the video. That video will certainly be helpful when I start trying to give him insulin in a few days time. so thanks for sharing it.

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

I could try putting it near him and then giving him a treat I suppose, like in the video. That video will certainly be helpful when I start trying to give him insulin in a few days time. so thanks for sharing it.

This is a great time to try to de-sensitize him, Lauren, because there isn't the pressure to 'have' to get a test. You can relax, and take things slowly and gently. But just keep trying. Many small efforts in the same direction. Even a few seconds here and there throughout the day, touching one of his ears, giving a little piece of a treat, and then a cuddle. The more relaxed you are about it, the more relaxed your cat is likely to be. Cats really do pick up on our moods so it is important to try to approach it all in as calm a fashion as possible. ...Your cat knows and loves and trusts you. You really can do this. Just be patient with yourself.

 

[Cherish4]

This is a great time to try to de-sensitize him, Lauren, because there isn't the pressure to 'have' to get a test. You can relax, and take things slowly and gently. But just keep trying. Many small efforts in the same direction. Even a few seconds here and there throughout the day, touching one of his ears, giving a little piece of a treat, and then a cuddle. The more relaxed you are about it, the more relaxed your cat is likely to be. Cats really do pick up on our moods so it is important to try to approach it all in as calm a fashion as possible. ...Your cat knows and loves and trusts you. You really can do this. Just be patient with yourself.

Decided to start giving this a go today after being unable to get a reading again yesterday. Have been touching his ears, fussing him around them and then giving a treat. His response has been mostly okay but a bit wary. Have also been placing the lancet in holder plus cotton pad on his feeding mat whenever he comes in and then giving him a treat with them there, before taking it all away again. Encouragingly, he didn't run away when he saw them and actually sniffed them a few times as well so hopefully he'll start to associate them with the treats. Will do this a few more times tonight before bed.

 

[Cherish4]

Been doing the desensitisation technique for the last 5 days but sadly it's not working. It started off really well, I gradually got to the stage where I could touch his ears and give him a treat, I got him to be okay with having the Lancet next to him and I even got to the point where I was able to gently touch his ears with the Lancet itself (not the needle obviously). Yesterday however did not go well, I tried to progress to holding the lancet and cotton pad against his ear as though I was going to poke without actually doing so and he did not like it. Then I tried to test this morning using everything I'd learnt and he freaked out, took off and didn't come back for 2 hours. I haven't got a single reading this week because I've wanted to use this technique and I'm not sure what to try next. I could walk it back a bit and try slowly again but I'm running out of time. His insulin has unfortunately been delayed for a few days due to unforeseen circumstances and the vet isn't keen to start him on it at the weekend in case anything went wrong as they won't be available, so it'll be Monday now when he starts. Therefore I have three days to figure something out.

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

Therefore I have three days to figure something out.

Well, at least you have a little more time to keep trying before the insulin arrives.

I'm not sure what to try next.

Lauren, what treats are you using to reward him with. Is it something he really, really likes?

How exactly are you trying to test him? Can you walk us through it?
Are you using the same routine each time?


And does he tolerate his paws being touched? There are some folks who find paw testing easier.

 

[Diana&Tom]

What about trying catnip?

 

[Cherish4]

What about trying catnip?

He will sniff at catnip but he doesn't go crazy for it like one of my others, Merlin, does.

 

[Cherish4]

Well, at least you have a little more time to keep trying before the insulin arrives.

True and he's doing okay at the moment so he's not in immediate danger but obviously it'll be better when he's on it.

This is him at the moment by the way, out in the garden and loving the sunshine:

Lauren, what treats are you using to reward him with. Is it something he really, really likes?

I'm using the wilko chicken breast treats that I bought last week and he loves them.

How exactly are you trying to test him? Can you walk us through it?
Are you using the same routine each time?

So I gently pick him up and put him on the kitchen counter. I give him some fuss and a treat, then I try to warm his ear up if I can but usually I can't so I just put a little vaseline on the edge of his ear, give him some more fuss and another treat. I try and talk to him in a light, soothing tone as well and then hold him with one arm whilst using the other to hold the cotton pad against his ear and poke with the Lancet. Usually have to do this two or three times, give him more fuss, more treats, massage the area to get a blood droplet, grab the meter to collect the blood, more fuss/treats, stem the blood with cotton pad, more fuss and treats, then let him go. All this whilst he is stressing out, making upset noises and struggling to get away.

And does he tolerate his paws being touched? There are some folks who find paw testing easier

Again, he doesn't mind if I briefly touch his pads but he'll pull them away if I mess too much.

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

This is him at the moment by the way, out in the garden and loving the sunshine:

Lovely photo, Lauren. ...He doesn't look 'too' traumatised there, bless him!

I'm using the wilko chicken breast treats that I bought last week and he loves them.

So I gently pick him up and put him on the kitchen counter. I give him some fuss and a treat, then I try to warm his ear up if I can but usually I can't so I just put a little vaseline on the edge of his ear, give him some more fuss and another treat. I try and talk to him in a light, soothing tone as well and then hold him with one arm whilst using the other to hold the cotton pad against his ear and poke with the Lancet. Usually have to do this two or three times, give him more fuss, more treats, massage the area to get a blood droplet, grab the meter to collect the blood, more fuss/treats, stem the blood with cotton pad, more fuss and treats, then let him go. All this whilst he is stressing out, making upset noises and struggling to get away.

The Vaseline on the ear probably doesn't need to be done every time you test. I found that once a day was/is usually sufficient. And that can be done entirely separately to doing the test itself. So, when I say 'hi' to the cats first thing in the morning, I may put a tiny smear of Vaseline on my thumb and then just casually wipe that over the edge of the ear that I'm planning to test, while giving the cat a little cuddle. It's also a chance to quickly see whether the ear is warm or cool.

It sounds like you are getting into a good routine. And if Little B is eating the treats once you've popped him on the kitchen counter he can't be too stressed at that point...

I wonder if he is reacting to being restrained; some cats really don't like to be held much...
With my old diabetic boy and the new foster kitty I'm crumbling treats and then testing them while they're actually eating the treat crumbs. And I wonder if this might work for you also?
So, first off I give the cat a bit of a brushing and a bit of fuss, incorporating a bit of ear massage. Then I put some of the pre-crumbled treats in front of the cat and while s/he is eating those I try to quickly take hold of an ear and prick the outer edge. Then I let go and see if I've got a blood droplet forming, and maybe scratch the cat's head or under the chin. If no blood droplet forming I repeat the process. Or if it looks like there's some blood but not quite enough I put down a few more treat crumbs and massage immediately below where I've pricked to 'milk' out a little more blood. If there's blood, I put down more treat crumbs and quickly hold the test strip against the blood droplet. This is the longest part of the process and does take a few seconds. While the meter is counting down I put down the remaining treat crumbs and press the test site between finger and thumb or with a piece of folded tissue.

The new foster kitty is still getting used to the testing, and at this point isn't exactly thrilled with it and tries to walk away backwards when I hold her ear. So I just make sure there's a cushion behind her (I test on an armchair) so she's got nowhere to go. And (touch wood/anti-jinx) she seems to be beginning to get more used to the process. (....If testing on a worktop or desk then it might be possible to block the cat from moving with your body, depending how you are standing in relation to him.)
I also had our first 'success' with the foster kitty in that a couple of days ago when I got the test kit out she actually hopped onto the armchair where I test her... So, she seems to be beginning to associate the sound of the test kit with treats. And this is exactly what we want to happen. She still doesn't like the actual test and having her ear held, but she really does like those treats. This is why it can be so helpful during the day to offer a piece of treat and either massage or hold the ear, or click the lancing device. It builds the association in a positive way. It can feel like we're not achieving anything at all at first, but suddenly, if we're lucky, the cat 'gets it'.

The first couple of weeks of trying to test can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. That's just how it is. Not all cats (or humans) take to testing like 'ducks to water'. But with persistence it almost always does get better. Many, many people report that a month or two into the process all is well, and the cat is now just fine with testing. This happens SO often. And I really hope you will soon be able to look back on this time and see how things have moved on.
Meanwhile do remind yourself, frequently, 'why' you are learning to test. A little motivation can help when situations start to feel a bit challenging:
It will help you to manage Little B's diabetes.
It will help you keep him safe from hypo.
It will save you money (less tests needed at the vet).
And it will increase his chance of going into remission.

Do keep trying, Lauren; and I'm sure that with persistence, patience, and a bit of 'can do' attitude you will get there.

 

[Cherish4]

Lovely photo, Lauren. ...He doesn't look 'too' traumatised there, bless him!

No, you'd never know he'd been so upset! I think it's cause he knew I wasn't going to try again so he could relax.

The Vaseline on the ear probably doesn't need to be done every time you test. I found that once a day was/is usually sufficient. And that can be done entirely separately to doing the test itself. So, when I say 'hi' to the cats first thing in the morning, I may put a tiny smear of Vaseline on my thumb and then just casually wipe that over the edge of the ear that I'm planning to test, while giving the cat a little cuddle. It's also a chance to quickly see whether the ear is warm or cool.

Okay well that's good to know, thanks for the tip.

I wonder if he is reacting to being restrained; some cats really don't like to be held much...

Yes I think it is being restrained that upsets him the most, whether that's his ear or his body. As we don't know his history, we've no idea if he maybe had a traumatic experience of being held or restraint at some point in his life. The thing is I've tried it the way you do already with not holding him and doing it when he's eating the treats but as soon as I take hold of his ear, he stops eating and pulls away. So I have no choice but to restrain him.

This is why it can be so helpful during the day to offer a piece of treat and either massage or hold the ear, or click the lancing device. It builds the association in a positive way. It can feel like we're not achieving anything at all at first, but suddenly, if we're lucky, the cat 'gets it'.

Like I said, I've been doing this all week and it's making no difference.

The first couple of weeks of trying to test can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. That's just how it is. Not all cats (or humans) take to testing like 'ducks to water'. But with persistence it almost always does get better. Many, many people report that a month or two into the process all is well, and the cat is now just fine with testing. This happens SO often. And I really hope you will soon be able to look back on this time and see how things have moved on.

I appreciate you saying this I really do but I honestly can't see it happening with him at the moment.

Meanwhile do remind yourself, frequently, 'why' you are learning to test. A little motivation can help when situations start to feel a bit challenging:
It will help you to manage Little B's diabetes.
It will help you keep him safe from hypo.
It will save you money (less tests needed at the vet).
And it will increase his chance of going into remission.

Do keep trying, Lauren; and I'm sure that with persistence, patience, and a bit of 'can do' attitude you will get there.

I do remind myself daily of why I have to do it but all that does is make me feel worse when I can't do it. I'm dreading next week when I have to do both testing and injections. I'm worrying about whether he'll be okay when I'm at work, I'm worrying about the potential for his levels to drop too low when he's out... All of it. I'm not finding things are getting easier at all and it's been a month now since his diagnosis.

 

[Elizabeth and Bertie]

I do remind myself daily of why I have to do it but all that does is make me feel worse when I can't do it.

OK... Well, if it really does turn out that you're not going to be able to test regularly, perhaps you will still be able to get some occasional tests as and when you can, or if you suspect something is amiss. And perhaps he'll come round in time.
Most diabetic cats on the planet are not hometested. Many people don't even try to test, but you have tried and are continuing to try. And that is wonderful. So please be kind to yourself.

Eliz

 

[Diana&Tom]

It's true, most diabetic cats are not home-tested and their owners live in blissful ignorance of anything much to do with FD other than remembering to give the two daily shots. Not everyone by a long chalk finds this board, but those that do, and read conscientiously about treating FD, usually feel they want to home-test to keep their cat safe. So as Elizabeth says, even if you can't test regularly, you'd probably be aware if something was amiss and you'd be prepared with the knowledge and equipment to take action if necessary. To be honest, if you start on a low dose of 1u, and bg is still in the 20s, you shouldn't have much to worry about in the immediate term. It's when bg starts coming down (hopefully) and the 1u doesn't have quite as much work to do that you might want to be monitoring on a regular basis... so you probably do still have some wiggle room to get to grips with testing, one way or another.

Having said this, there are many people here who wouldn't give insulin at all, even a token dose, without getting a bg reading first. I certainly wouldn't want to give the impression that it's fine not to test, but maybe if you allow yourself a few more days and feel less pressurised, it will get easier. Try to stop the dreading and worrying and turn your thoughts into a more positive frame of mind. Think how much better you'll feel if you can do this. As we've said before, our cats do pick up on our moods so if you're hesitant and nervous, it's no real surprise that your cat may be too. Adopt a more relaxed approach and it may well pay off!

 

[Diana&Tom]

Hi Lauren, how are you getting on? Are you giving insulin yet?

 

[Cherish4]

Hi Lauren, how are you getting on? Are you giving insulin yet?

Sorry for the delay in replying, I've not been too well and there's been a lot going on the last few days.

Little B is FINALLY due to go up to the vets tomorrow so that we can get the insulin. It's been a delay of two weeks as communication between the RSPCA and the vets has been very slow and the RSPCA only made a decision about funding at the weekend. They've said that they can cover costs for the next three months and then if he still needs insulin after that I will have to find some other means of paying for it. Luckily he's been fine, eating well, active, no excessive thirst, no ketones etc...in fact you'd never know that he had anything wrong at all.

Regarding home testing...not much improvement there I'm afraid. I've decided (after chatting to a friend) that trying to aim for 4 tests a day, given his personality and temperament, is probably unrealistic, at least to begin with. So my aim is to just try doing the pre-shot tests so that at least I know it's safe to give him the insulin and then hopefully as time goes on I can do more. Obviously if he shows signs of being unwell or hypo symptoms, then I would do extra tests but otherwise I will just monitor for now. I will probably also get some glucose urine strips so that at least I can get a general idea of how he's doing. It's not ideal I know but it's better than doing nothing.