9/28 - Lantus - Flash - No test number yet...

Flash's human

Flash's human

Member Since 2019
After getting the correct ReliOn strips to go w/the ReliOn glucometer, I was able to test myself after eating dinner, so I'm 150 which appears to be normal so I know they work. However, my cat was very resistant to pricking his ear and considering how weak he appears, he still has the quite the fight in him. The meter gave me an E13 reading despite me pricking his ear 3 times in 1 spot which according to the booklet means not enough blood came out to get a reading. I will of course try again tomorrow since this has to happen, but he was traumatized enough today, and his poor ear looked so terrible even after a cotton swab, poor guy.
 
I will say watching these getting blood from cat videos does show ReliOn tends to require more blood for a reading compared to others.
 
Hmm yes some BG meters require more than others. I’m not familiar with relion since I’m in Canada and they aren’t available here. I was wondering what gauge lancet you’re using? (Sorry if you’ve answered this 100x) starting out it’s nice to use a larger gauge like 28gauge, it will allow more success getting blood. After Flash grows more capillaries and bleeds more easily for you you can switch to a smaller gauge. Like 31.

Do I remember you saying 26/28?

With the traumatization, trust me it will get better. Flash will get used to it. Try and stay as relaxed as possible when gathering a test, cats pick up on our energy. Keep it up with the positive reinforcement and I’m sure Flash will start seeing his blood sacrifices as a positive thing!

Also keep on keeping that ear warm before you poke!

Hoping things get better soon for you and your testing!
 
I'm so glad you've posted a new thread...I was watching the old one but it was just getting too big...

Yes, getting the correct meter and matching strips is an absolute requirement - otherwise they just won't work - I did several meter comparisons last year and found that the OneDrop (it's a subscription service) requires the smallest drop of blood. I tried several from Walmart and the Prime required the largest drop. They were discontinuing the one I was using (Relion Confirm) so I was forced to change...at any rate, you may want to try some different meters+strips to see if there's another one that you like better.

I'm sure someone has already mentioned the rice filled sock - -I use a baby sock with a few tablespoons of raw rice - which I warm in the microwave for 20 seconds or just enough to warm it where it feels nice on your wrist...hold that under his ear to support the ear, warm it up to allow blood to flow and prevent you from sticking your finger...hope this will help!

I hope someone will help you get your spreadsheet set up - it would be good to see any tests that you have done....
 
Was very happy to see your post this morning!

It's not easy at the beginning but it will get better! One important thing after poking his little ear is to put some "Neosporin Complete Pain Relief and AB" cream; just a little after each poke will help his ear not to be too painful!
 
It used to be horrifying for us to test.
After just one month, we got into a routine and now he lays down for me and purrs every time he sees the meter because before a test he gets tons of massages, and after he gets treats! So now he waits patiently :) It will happen I promise!

Also, you'll get better at poking, you don't have to go deep, but aim at the sweet spot on the outer ear, lower side of the corner (I used to poke inside the ear until someone here told me where the spot was).
 
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