Keep getting error blood readings on Relion ( Walmart) monitor

[Mikey’sDad]

My cat , Mikey has been Lantus dependent fOrr 6 years and his recent physical and blood work show he is doing well.

Lately, I cannot get a blood reading. When I prick him using the Walmart brand pen instrument I keep getting a blood is too thick” error. I have used a lancet alone and the same thing occurs .
Today I need strips ,and will buy a new instrument Relion- Walmart’s. I get his numbers 4times a day so the dispenser gets used often. I got a new one about 6months ago
So frustrated . I hate pricking him 4 times to get a reading
Thanks,
Tom
PS I have been using the same ear for 6 years which could be an issue? Thoughts? Mikey has been insulin dependent for 6 years now and is doing well

 

[Tim & Pookey]

Hey Tom, is it the ER4 error? I think that can also mean not enough blood. Could that be? Good idea about a new meter.

 

[TommyMommy]

Yes, I get Er 4 all the time, not enough blood. I also alternate ears when he gives me a chance. I massage his head with a warm washcloth and coo at him and work those ears to get the blood coming out better (bigger drop) before I push the thing into the relion. I also just nic the outer edge of the ear (not at the vein) because they have less nerves there, you can tell when he doesn't even feel it.

 

[Mikey’sDad]

Hey Tom, is it the ER4 error? I think that can also mean not enough blood. Could that be? Good idea about a new meter.

I think it is enough blood as it doesn’t always bead up. Yep. The ER4 error. I am going thru so many damn strips

 

[Mikey’sDad]

Yes, I get Er 4 all the time, not enough blood. I also alternate ears when he gives me a chance. I massage his head with a warm washcloth and coo at him and work those ears to get the blood coming out better (bigger drop) before I push the thing into the relion. I also just nic the outer edge of the ear (not at the vein) because they have less nerves there, you can tell when he doesn't even feel it.

Good to know I am not the only one. But he has been fine for 6 years. Perhaps his right ear needs a rest

 

[Dyana]

Good to know I am not the only one. But he has been fine for 6 years. Perhaps his right ear needs a rest

I get the ER4 a lot too. It's when there is not enough blood. At least these Relion strips are inexpensive. Ten years ago, I used to use the One Touch and they were about $1 each back then.
Jackson is mostly used to his right ear being poked, but occasionally I have to give it a rest for a week or two and use his left ear. He hates either one, but it's got to be done.

 

[Mikey’sDad]

I get the ER4 a lot too. It's when there is not enough blood. At least these Relion strips are inexpensive. Ten years ago, I used to use the One Touch and they were about $1 each back then.
Jackson is mostly used to his right ear being poked, but occasionally I have to give it a rest for a week or two and use his left ear. He hates either one, but it's got to be done.

I feel so bad for him because it takes 3 pokes to get a reading that is not ER4. I test him 4 times a day so that is a lot of pokes . Gonna try his other ear today