New here and need some advice please

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Msmpower

Msmpower

Member Since 2021
I’m new here, and so grateful for this forum. I’m not sure yet how to start a convo with the masses. Hope this works.
I’ve just tested my 12 year old cat and his blood glucose is 17.0 mmol/L = 306.31 mg/dL.
He was on 2 units of insulin previously but went into remission. I noticed recently he was looking like his diabetes has returned so did testing at home with blood testing Alpha Trex2 monitor. It only reads in mmol/L so the above conversion is what I found that was closest. There is lots of information here, and I’ve found some on blood glucose being too low, but hoping someone can give me feedback on his numbers now? Do I need to start him back on insulin?
COVID has devastated me financially right now and it kills me that I can’t afford going to the vet. Any and all help is appreciated.
 
Welcome to FDMB.

Posting here in Health is the way you get started. This is the main entry point for the board and the place where new members introduce themselves and their kitties.

You may want to include what insulin you're using. Members will likely suggest that you consider switching to a human meter -- the strips for the Alpha Track are very expensive compared to the strips for a human meter. If you're not in the US, it will also help to have that information so we can make appropriate suggestions.

I'm tagging @Chris & China (GA). She is connected with Diabetic Cats in Need (DCIN) and the organization may be able to help you to defray some expenses.

Please do not start your cat back at 2.0u. You did the conversion correctly. We'll help you get a spreadsheet set up that will automatically convert world numbers into the mg/L format we use in the US. 306 is not normal blood glucose range but you want to start at lower than 2.0u dose. Not knowing what insulin you're using makes any recommendation challenging. It will also help to know what you're feeding your cat.

There is some basic information you can provide us with, notably a signature and a spreadsheet. This is a link to a post on helping us to help you. It will give you all of what you need to set up your signature and spreadsheet. I'm also tagging @Bandit's Mom who can help you with the spreadsheet if you need an assist.

If DCIN can help with costs, a vet visit would be a good idea. Any source of infection or inflammation may be the reason your cat fell out of remission. Something like tartar buildup/gingivitis on a cat's teeth is a prime cause for a cat's not holding remission.
 
The Alpha Trax 2, I received as a gift after someone knew I was in need. The strips are crazy expensive but I just found ones that work with it and we’re $20 for 30 on Amazon. They are called PetSure. I just bought two boxes yesterday. Not as good a deal as what your suggesting but for now it will do.
Coincidentally, I have always fed both my cats Fancy Feast Classic pates, and in researching best options found that yes, they are good. Thanks for confirming that too.
My cats name is Buddha and I have Lantus insulin, which was prescribed by the Vet when he was diagnosed 5 years ago.
He also has a large growth on his hind right leg by his bottom. Not sure if that has anything to do with what’s going on right now, but he’s exactly like he was when I was able to get him diagnosed previously. It kills me not being able to have him treated right now.
Im not sure what a signature is or spreadsheet but I’ll see if I can find out more information on FAQ.
I am in Vancouver Canada so not sure if I would be able to get support? I’ve tried to find something here but have come up blank.
I can’t thank you all enough for all the help and advice. Was feeling pretty upset earlier. Appreciate you all so much.
 
We are probably the biggest English speaking feline diabetes support group on the web and our membership is international. One of our moderators, @Wendy&Neko is in BC and can provide you with lots of information about Canadian resources.

As for the signature and spreadsheet:
  • The signature is some basic information about your cat. If you look at the bottom of my post above, there is information about me and my kitty. If you look at some of the other threads on the board, you'll see a more typical signature (your name, cat's name, date of diagnosis, insulin, diet, meter, etc.). It helps us to not keep asking you the same questions repeatedly.
  • The spreadsheet -- Gabby's is in my signature -- is a template we use to keep track of a cat's progress. You link the spreadsheet to your signature so we can follow your cat's progress and make suggestions regarding dose or other issues. We are very numbers oriented and won't make dose recommendations without a spreadsheet. Without those data, we could make dangerous recommendations and we are all about keeping your cat safe.
 
Again, thank you Sienna.

I just read your signature…teared up. I’m so sorry for your loss of you lil one/s. I will do my best to get my signature done ASAP. Definitely will pale in comparison, I’m sure.

I completely understand not giving recommendations without accurate information. I will look at the chart and see what I need to do. I’ve never done a curve or consistent testing before. I’ve only now got the kit and am trying to learn as much as I can. Honestly, I have zero idea, and appreciate all the help.
 
All of this process is more than a little overwhelming at first -- and then we're making "recommendations" to add to mix. It really does get easier and much of the process becomes a routine for both you and your kitty! We're here to help make all of this second nature.

Gabby taught me a great deal about diabetes and about being a caregiver. They were invaluable lessons.
 
Sienne and Gabby (GA) said:
All of this process is more than a little overwhelming at first -- and then we're making "recommendations" to add to mix. It really does get easier and much of the process becomes a routine for both you and your kitty! We're here to help make all of this second nature.

Gabby taught me a great deal about diabetes and about being a caregiver. They were invaluable lessons.
Click to expand...
I definitely feel overwhelmed and thank you for sharing that you understand.
 
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