31 gauge needles

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jeniblue

Member Since 2012
I am wondering if anyone knows if longer (1/2") 31 gauge needles are available?

I was having trouble giving my kitty his shot. I am not sure why he suddenly decided he didn't want it. The first few weeks I was giving him his shot and he didn't even seem to notice. Now he cries a bit and avoids me when I come with the needle. Even with treats!

Someone suggested I try a smaller gauge needle. I was using a 29 gauge 1/2" length. I have been trying the 31 gauge needle this week and it seems much easier. But, it is a shorter needle (5/16"), and I am having a little difficulty seeing if it is going under his skin all the way.

I'm guessing that they do not make the 31 gauge needle in a longer size because it may bend or break. Does anyone have information on that?
 
It certainly could be the needle, but sometimes cats fight the shot if the insulin is taking them low and making them feel crummy. Do you test at home? If not, can we teach you how?
 
No, there isn't. 31 guage is so thin that if the needle were longer than 5/16 inch it would bend as you insert it into the skin causing discomfort and possibly even breaking off :shock: You can fully insert a 5/16 inch needle right into the tented skin flap with no worry about hitting anything. Some people shave some of the fur so they can better see the needle going in. There are insulin syringes with 1/2 inch long 30 gauge needles. You can give those a try. Inserting the needle bevel side up minimizes discomfort as well.
 
I don't know the answer to your question, but maybe splitting the difference with a 30g needle might help? I started using 31g needles a few weeks ago, but I have noticed EQ shows discomfort that he never showed with 30g needles. Walmart's brand needles come in 30g, if you are near a location (or in the US). Good luck!
 
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