Blood testing kits, what kind?

[Duck’s owner]

Hi, I’m new here. My cat Duck just got diagnosed with diabetes. We live 2.5 hours away from the vet, they want me to do a blood curve after 15 days of starting his 2u, 2 times a day of insulin because I can’t drive there on day 15. What are some good blood testing kits for cats? If I can’t find a cat one in my small town, is it ok to use a human one from the pharmacy? If so, can anyone please suggest a decent one? Thanks!!! Also, I live in Canada thanks!

 

[Chris and Checkers]

Human ones are less expensive and easier to get the strips as you can go to any pharmacy. There is a slight difference in readings between a pet and human reader. But not enough to be a problem most of us here use a human one.

I live in Canada too. You can usually get a free meter when you buy 100 strips. I have found the best price at Walmart but haven't tried Costco. I use the Contour Next One. But I heard the Freestyle Lite requires less blood. Strips are quite expensive especially if you test often, but the pet meter strips are a lot more. You can ask the pharmacist for recommendations.

Also for information on testing check out this link.

https://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/hometesting-links-and-tips.287/

 

[Duck’s owner]

Thanks so much for the reply. This is all so overwhelming, expensive and inconvenient. We told our cat yesterday “why do you have to be so nice?”
I actually contacted the vet clinic today and they have one handy to ship to us. Probably waaaay more expensive than I need to pay but we are running out of time to get our hands on one.
Appreciate you taking your time to reply!

 

[Duck’s owner]

Human ones are less expensive and easier to get the strips as you can go to any pharmacy. There is a slight difference in readings between a pet and human reader. But not enough to be a problem most of us here use a human one.

I live in Canada too. You can usually get a free meter when you buy 100 strips. I have found the best price at Walmart but haven't tried Costco. I use the Contour Next One. But I heard the Freestyle Lite requires less blood. Strips are quite expensive especially if you test often, but the pet meter strips are a lot more. You can ask the pharmacist for recommendations.

Also for information on testing check out this link.

https://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/hometesting-links-and-tips.287/

Thanks so much! I accidentally replied to you in a new comment!

 

[Chris and Checkers]

Thanks so much! I accidentally replied to you in a new comment!

No problem.

Members here are happy to help with any questions you have. Diabetes can be very overwhelming at first.