Testing BG at home

[~Tricia]

I’m not sure if this is the right place to post this question, so I apologize if not.

I purchased a Relion Premier Classic meter and 26 gauge thin lancelets. I am on the struggle bus right now. I have watched many videos and read lots of hints. I can’t seem to get my poor kitty to bleed enough. His blood work is good and he’s hydrated but he won’t give it up. I’ve tried warming his ear. I’ve used a touch of Vaseline on his lobe. He’s Main coon and has so much black fur on the inside of the outer lining, it makes it difficult. I’m trying to practice this because I purchased Cabergoline and don’t want to start it until I know I can check his BG easily.
ANY help would be greatly appreciated!!! My kitty hates me now

 

[Larry and Kitties]

Make sure you backup the ear where you use the lancet. If not firmly backed up the lanced will tend to push the ear away vice penetrating the ear. I backup up with a cottn cosmetic pad under my finger. I then use the pad to absrb excess blood and to apply pressure to the site to avoid bruising. Also, start with the deepest setting if you use the lancet pen. Do not be afraid toe go all the way through the ear when starting testing.

 

[~Tricia]

Make sure you backup the ear where you use the lancet. If not firmly backed up the lanced will tend to push the ear away vice penetrating the ear. I backup up with a cottn cosmetic pad under my finger. I then use the pad to absrb excess blood and to apply pressure to the site to avoid bruising. Also, start with the deepest setting if you use the lancet pen. Do not be afraid toe go all the way through the ear when starting testing.

I didn’t buy a pen but maybe I should? I hold his ear flat against a cotton pad for stability. Should I hold the lancet straight up and down or at an angle? I haven’t went through his ear yet

 

[Ale & Bobo & Minnie (GA)]

You want the lancet with the bevel side up. I usually point it up at an angle. Have you practiced on your finger so you can feel the pressure needed?

 

[~Tricia]

You want the lancet with the bevel side up. I usually point it up at an angle. Have you practiced on your finger so you can feel the pressure needed?

Thanks and yeas I have practiced on myself. I’ll have a look at the needle. I it’s a 26 gauge thin. The package didn’t mention a bevel nor did I notice. Thanks!

 

[Amy & Herman]

They recommend warming the ear first, but I find a good head massage including the ears really helps get the blood flowing. It’s one of the only areas of Herman’s body I’m actually allowed to pet lol.

 

[Ale & Bobo & Minnie (GA)]

If you look at the tip of the lancet, you’ll see the bevel. That way the sharpest edge goes in first.