Great first follow-up vet visit for Joshi

[LaraB]

Yesterday, our sugarcat, Joshi, had her first follow-up visit to the vet to test her glucose. Four hours post-injection, her numbers are now down to 215 - she tested at 480 when we first brought her in. So, great news! In fact, she's gained back a pound in the interim. Right now now she's on twice daily 2-unit shots of Vetsulin, so we'll continue with that for now. (I am reading various threads about Vetsulin not being a good choice, so I'm arming myself with info about other insulin choices should we need to switch).

I'm still working up the courage to do glucose testing at home. I do really want to do this, but just wanted to get used to giving her injections first before poking my poor girl some more. I did take the first step by testing the meter out on myself (side note - my blood sugar was fine. ) I've been watching you tube videos on technique to work up my confidence. I'll get there soon.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Hi Lara, great to hear that Joshi is doing so well! Her numbers might even be a little lower, "vet stress" tends to raise a kitty's BG.

The sooner you can get started with home testing, the better. It's really important to know what your cat's BG level is, before you give insulin, to keep her safe. I know testing at home seems daunting, but it really isn't as difficult as it may appear. It frequently just comes down to a matter of confidence - approach it with confidence, knowing you can do this, and it will soon become second nature to you and Joshi! Once you get over the initial hurdle it will get progressively easier. I worried a lot about hurting my baby's ears, but they have very few nerve endings in that part of the ear, and most of the time he doesn't feel it at all. You can apply a very thin layer of Neosporin ointment with pain relief, too. Occasionally I'll poke a spot that makes Squallie draw back (and he lets me know with soul-withering looks, lol!) but that happens so infrequently that he doesn't seem bothered in the long run. I have an alarm set on my phone for test times and he comes running to me now when he hears it; he knows testing is followed by special treats and a meal!

Here are some links to more information on home testing:

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

Keep us posted, and sing out if you need help!

 

[SpecklesandMe]

Glad Joshi is doing better. I know home testing can be intimidating but remember that you are doing it for the best interest of your kitty. Hang in there! ;-)