New Member 12/15/24 - Could Use Advice

[PQTaggart]

Hi, I'm Megan and my cat is Jake. He's (at least) 15 years old and was diagnosed in August 2024. I've been lurking on the site since then, and the information has been wonderful! We have a good routine, Jake's gained back his lost weight and is doing pretty well - thank you all for sharing your knowledge!

My vet isn't very knowledgeable about diabetes, and a "specialist" she consulted didn't agree with at-home testing, so that didn't go well. I've been able to figure a lot out, but we're still having issues with insulin type and doses. We're on 3 units of PZI currently, but can't seem to get his numbers down and stable. The vet thinks 3 units is the maximum for Jake and doesn't want to switch to Lantus.

I have two spreadsheets - the FreeStyle Lite was used August - November, and we started monitoring with AlphaTrak3 in mid-October. I'd love any advice you can give us, thank you!

 

[Tim & Pookey]

Welcome Megan and Jake! You’re in the right place - the folks here are super knowledgeable (as you probably already know). They will help get you situated.

One suggestion… you could consolidate the spreadsheets and use a row as a divider to help simplify things.

 

[PQTaggart]

Done! Added a colored row to separate the meters. Thanks!

 

[SmallestSparrow]

Hi, I'm Megan and my cat is Jake. He's (at least) 15 years old and was diagnosed in August 2024. I've been lurking on the site since then, and the information has been wonderful! We have a good routine, Jake's gained back his lost weight and is doing pretty well - thank you all for sharing your knowledge!

My vet isn't very knowledgeable about diabetes, and a "specialist" she consulted didn't agree with at-home testing, so that didn't go well. I've been able to figure a lot out, but we're still having issues with insulin type and doses. We're on 3 units of PZI currently, but can't seem to get his numbers down and stable. The vet thinks 3 units is the maximum for Jake and doesn't want to switch to Lantus.

I have two spreadsheets - the FreeStyle Lite was used August - November, and we started monitoring with AlphaTrak3 in mid-October. I'd love any advice you can give us, thank you!

Hi and welcome. Im glad Jake has regained weight and doing better. I’m new so can’t speak to many of your concerns but I’ve got a question—it looks like you were testing with both meters for an overlap period, is that correct? I ask because they’re off even more than I’d expect a human and pet meter to be…not that I know much about diabetes but I’ve become sort of a meter nerd. Jake isn’t anemic is he? Do you have the HCT alert turned on in your Alpha Trak? It comes set off as the default but is easy to turn on and I can tell you how if you want. I ask about anemia because it would throw off the readings between human and pet meters more than they already are.

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

Hi Megan and Jake and welcome to the forum. You are well set up with the spreadsheet and the signature, thank you.

Was there a reason why you swapped from the freestyle lite to the alpha track meter? The freestyle lite is much cheaper to use than the alpha track meters and is just as good. And our dosing methods are based on the human meters.

A few observations:
I think you might have had more success if you had increased in 0.25 unit doses. That way you don’t go past the best dose.
And if you could get at least one test in every cycle, during that cycle, including the pm cycles, that will tell us how well the dose is working for Jake. All the preshot tells us is if it is safe to give the dose. The lowest point in the cycle tells us if the dose is dropping too low, not low enough or just right. So for weeks most of your data is only the preshot, which are very important, but doesn’t tell us how well the dose is working for Jake.

This is what I would do:

• Start to consistently get those all important tests in during the cycle. Anywhere between +4 and + +7 will give us an idea where Jake is heading. And if the BG number is quite a bit lower it would be worth while getting another test in an hour or 2 later.
• Are you feeding Jake a good meal before each insulin dose and then giving him 2 or 3 snacks of low carb food during the first half of each cycle? This is much better for him than just the 2 main meals. A snack is a teaspoon or two of normal low carb food.
• Read the information about Prozinc and ProZinc dosing method.
  
• If you are using the alpha track meter or the freestyle lite meter you need to reduce the dose if it drops under 90 while you are following SLGS
• I would not increase the dose until we have some of those all important mid cycle BG tests
• I will tag @Suzanne & Darcy as she uses prozinc and she can guide you on the best dosing method for you and what dose to be using.

 

[Diane Tyler's Mom GA]

@PQTaggart
Can you please add the date Jake was diagnosed in your signature also

 

[PQTaggart]

Hi and welcome. Im glad Jake has regained weight and doing better. I’m new so can’t speak to many of your concerns but I’ve got a question—it looks like you were testing with both meters for an overlap period, is that correct? I ask because they’re off even more than I’d expect a human and pet meter to be…not that I know much about diabetes but I’ve become sort of a meter nerd. Jake isn’t anemic is he? Do you have the HCT alert turned on in your Alpha Trak? It comes set off as the default but is easy to turn on and I can tell you how if you want. I ask about anemia because it would throw off the readings between human and pet meters more than they already are.

Yes, there was an overlap since I had leftover strips. The vet tests didn't show anemia, but I'll test hct with the AlphaTrak3 this evening and let you know. Thanks!

 

[PQTaggart]

@PQTaggart
Can you please add the date Jake was diagnosed in your signature also

Done!

 

[SmallestSparrow]

Yes, there was an overlap since I had leftover strips. The vet tests didn't show anemia, but I'll test hct with the AlphaTrak3 this evening and let you know. Thanks!

Good. The reason the AT has that alert is bc anemia can make a meter read falsely high. I asked why they set it to “off” as the default and they were afraid of overwhelming pet parents

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

I don't have any idea why a "specialist" would suggest that blood glucose testing at home is not indicated. This is a link to the diabetes treatment guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Assn. On page 10, they endorse home testing especially in cats since cats will often experience stress hyperglycemia (high blood glucose numbers) when at the vet's office. Not to be too terribly cynical, but vets make money by having you bring your cat in to their clinic to be tested. You're going to save money and get more accurate data by testing at home.

I'd also suggest getting a minimum of 4 test per day. You need to get your AMPS and PMPS which you're routinely doing. It's also important to get at least one additional test during the AM and PM cycles. Without tests closer to the nadir, you have no idea if Jake needs a dose reduction. Testing closer to the low point in the cycle will give you an idea of how Jake's numbers play out during each cycle.

 

[PQTaggart]

Hi Megan and Jake and welcome to the forum. You are well set up with the spreadsheet and the signature, thank you.

Was there a reason why you swapped from the freestyle lite to the alpha track meter? The freestyle lite is much cheaper to use than the alpha track meters and is just as good. And our dosing methods are based on the human meters.

A few observations:
I think you might have had more success if you had increased in 0.25 unit doses. That way you don’t go past the best dose.
And if you could get at least one test in every cycle, during that cycle, including the pm cycles, that will tell us how well the dose is working for Jake. All the preshot tells us is if it is safe to give the dose. The lowest point in the cycle tells us if the dose is dropping too low, not low enough or just right. So for weeks most of your data is only the preshot, which are very important, but doesn’t tell us how well the dose is working for Jake.

This is what I would do:

• Start to consistently get those all important tests in during the cycle. Anywhere between +4 and + +7 will give us an idea where Jake is heading. And if the BG number is quite a bit lower it would be worth while getting another test in an hour or 2 later.
• Are you feeding Jake a good meal before each insulin dose and then giving him 2 or 3 snacks of low carb food during the first half of each cycle? This is much better for him than just the 2 main meals. A snack is a teaspoon or two of normal low carb food.
• Read the information about Prozinc and ProZinc dosing method.
  
• If you are using the alpha track meter or the freestyle lite meter you need to reduce the dose if it drops under 90 while you are following SLGS
• I would not increase the dose until we have some of those all important mid cycle BG tests
• I will tag @Suzanne & Darcy as she uses prozinc and she can guide you on the best dosing method for you and what dose to be using.

I switched on the advice of my vet, when the Freestyle Lite was showing different results than a CVS meter they loaned me for a short time (to compare) and was also not agreeing with what they got in the vet's office. I did controls on every meter I've used and they come up fine - no idea why they read so differently, we often take the samples from the same large drop of blood. I'm good to stay on AT3 or switch back to the FL, whatever is best. Unfortunately, the vet had us go up by 0.5 (this was before I found the forum).

- I have a lot of trouble getting additional tests (+4, +7, etc.) due to my work schedule (I start work at AM+1, and get home at AM+9, and go to bed around PM+2/+3). I've done a few curves on the weekends, and I'll try my best to get as many tests during the week as possible (maybe 3-4?) and do full curves on the weekends.
- Jake gets a good meal right after I check his glucose (pre-shot). He grazes on the leftovers and a small amount of low carb food until about 2 hours before the pre-shot test. I try not to feed him that close to shot time.
- I've read about the PZI and dosing, but I'm not sure what to do now, when we are already at 3 units and not getting less. My vet (though I question her judgement now) says that 3 units is the max for Jake. Do we go back to the beginning? I guess once we have more data, it'll be easier to figure out where to go.
- Got it!
- We won't increase the dose until then.
- Thanks for reaching out to them!

 

[PQTaggart]

I don't have any idea why a "specialist" would suggest that blood glucose testing at home is not indicated. This is a link to the diabetes treatment guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Assn. On page 10, they endorse home testing especially in cats since cats will often experience stress hyperglycemia (high blood glucose numbers) when at the vet's office. Not to be too terribly cynical, but vets make money by having you bring your cat in to their clinic to be tested. You're going to save money and get more accurate data by testing at home.

I'd also suggest getting a minimum of 4 test per day. You need to get your AMPS and PMPS which you're routinely doing. It's also important to get at least one additional test during the AM and PM cycles. Without tests closer to the nadir, you have no idea if Jake needs a dose reduction. Testing closer to the low point in the cycle will give you an idea of how Jake's numbers play out during each cycle.

Yeah, my vet called me really upset because the "specialist" basically screamed at her over the phone about how bad home testing is and how awful it is that I put my cat through the stress of testing multiple times per day. Jake not only sits on my lap purring and kneading during tests and shots, but will wake me up when it's close to shot time so he can get his food. Obviously neither of us listened to the "specialist" after that.

I will do my darndest to get more data - my work hours aren't very good for mid-cycle testing. Maybe I can get up during the night and test, if I can't do the AM cycle.

 

[PQTaggart]

Good. The reason the AT has that alert is bc anemia can make a meter read falsely high. I asked why they set it to “off” as the default and they were afraid of overwhelming pet parents

That is honestly the dumbest reason to default to OFF! We are already overwhelmed, adding one more helpful number won't break us, especially since it's part of the same test. I had no idea the meter could check for HCT - the ON instructions are in a small section buried in the manual. I don't see how they expect pet parents to know, so thank you for helping me out!

 

[SmallestSparrow]

That is honestly the dumbest reason to default to OFF! We are already overwhelmed, adding one more helpful number won't break us, especially since it's part of the same test. I had no idea the meter could check for HCT - the ON instructions are in a small section buried in the manual. I don't see how they expect pet parents to know, so thank you for helping me out!

It won’t give you an HCT number but will come on if the HCT is low enough to make a reading false. I felt the same way but could see that some folks get freaked out and overwhelmed so might not know what HCT meant. But it seems odd to make it then turn it off and not advertise it. I told them that. Yeah the C button turns on the “extra” notification settings like HCT and KET?
I suspect a beta test group didn’t like it

 

[Diane Tyler's Mom GA]

@PQTaggart
If you don't have the U-40 syringes with the half unit markings you can get them from Amazon
VetRx U-40 Pet Insulin Syringes, Comfortable and Accurate Dosing of Insulin for Pets, Compatible with Any U-40 Strength Insulin, Size: 3/10cc, 29G x ½’’, with Half Unit Markings, 100 ct Box
Amazon's
Choice
Overall Pick

 

[Diane Tyler's Mom GA]

 

[SmallestSparrow]

One final note on meters—some are sensitive to how long the blood drop sits. I actually don’t know if the AT is and plan to ask tech support next time I call them (they’re great btw)—but looking at a human meter’s specs the other day it noted that leaving a drop sit could cause it to dehydrate slightly which could affect test results.

 

[PQTaggart]

@PQTaggart
If you don't have the U-40 syringes with the half unit markings you can get them from Amazon
VetRx U-40 Pet Insulin Syringes, Comfortable and Accurate Dosing of Insulin for Pets, Compatible with Any U-40 Strength Insulin, Size: 3/10cc, 29G x ½’’, with Half Unit Markings, 100 ct Box
Amazon's
Choice
Overall Pick

Thank you so much!!! I was going to ask where to get syringes with smaller unit markings!

 

[PQTaggart]

One final note on meters—some are sensitive to how long the blood drop sits. I actually don’t know if the AT is and plan to ask tech support next time I call them (they’re great btw)—but looking at a human meter’s specs the other day it noted that leaving a drop sit could cause it to dehydrate slightly which could affect test results.

I was usually pretty fast switching meters (pre-loaded the strips), but this brings up something I've wondered about: will what you use to clean/disinfect the area (I use paws, Jake doesn't do well when I go after his ears) affect the readings if you make sure to wipe the paw dry before drawing blood? Although the numbers don't seem to heavily reflect the various solutions I've used, do you think that could impact his readings? If anyone here also uses paws, what do you use to clean them?

 

[SmallestSparrow]

I was usually pretty fast switching meters (pre-loaded the strips), but this brings up something I've wondered about: will what you use to clean/disinfect the area (I use paws, Jake doesn't do well when I go after his ears) affect the readings if you make sure to wipe the paw dry before drawing blood? Although the numbers don't seem to heavily reflect the various solutions I've used, do you think that could impact his readings? If anyone here also uses paws, what do you use to clean them?

I think I was told use plain water and that’s what i use but I use ears. Maybe after you use whatever then follow with a water wipe? Bc I’m sure many chemicals could alter the expected reaction in the strip

 

[PQTaggart]

I think I was told use plain water and that’s what i use but I use ears. Maybe after you use whatever then follow with a water wipe? Bc I’m sure many chemicals could alter the expected reaction in the strip

That's a great idea! We'll be able to see if the cleaners are impacting the numbers or not.

 

[SmallestSparrow]

Tech support said contamination is also why they say touch the top of the blood drop not the skin, they feel the blood that welled up is less likely to be contaminated. Sounds reasonable but idk if really true

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

I have a lot of trouble getting additional tests (+4, +7, etc.) due to my work schedule (I start work at AM+1, and get home at AM+9, and go to bed around PM+2/+3). I've done a few curves on the weekends, and I'll try my best to get as many tests during the week as possible (maybe 3-4?) and do full curves on the weekends.

Getting a + 9 is also OK. It won’t give us the nadir but is still good data. And a +3 before you go to bed is good. So if you can do those two during the working week and then get the tests closer to the nadir at weekends.

Jake gets a good meal right after I check his glucose (pre-shot). He grazes on the leftovers and a small amount of low carb food until about 2 hours before the pre-shot test. I try not to feed him that close to shot time.

Have you thought about an automatic timed feeder for during the week when you are at work. A lot of us use them and they are fantastic.

I've read about the PZI and dosing, but I'm not sure what to do now, when we are already at 3 units and not getting less. My vet (though I question her judgement now) says that 3 units is the max for Jake. Do we go back to the beginning? I guess once we have more data, it'll be easier to figure out where to go.

I would continue with the 3 units until @Suzanne & Darcy comes along with advice.
Your vet is not correct. A cat needs as much insulin as he needs to bring the BGs down to normal range. Some cats need a lot of insulin and some cats only need a tiny bit. Every cat is different. Definitely do not go back to the beginning again. That is never a good idea and can cause other issues. We are always guided in dosing by the BG numbers and follow one of the dosing methods.

 

[PQTaggart]

Getting a + 9 is also OK. It won’t give us the nadir but is still good data. And a +3 before you go to bed is good. So if you can do those two during the working week and then get the tests closer to the nadir at weekends.

Have you thought about an automatic timed feeder for during the week when you are at work. A lot of us use them and they are fantastic.

I would continue with the 3 units until @Suzanne & Darcy comes along with advice.
Your vet is not correct. A cat needs as much insulin as he needs to bring the BGs down to normal range. Some cats need a lot of insulin and some cats only need a tiny bit. Every cat is different. Definitely do not go back to the beginning again. That is never a good idea and can cause other issues. We are always guided in dosing by the BG numbers and follow one of the dosing methods.

I'll definitely start taking more readings, didn't realize +3/+9 could be useful too!

My parents have a feeder I can use! They used to use it for their kitty, before I began pet sitting for them.

Thank you for this info! My vet is still new to the diabetes process and skittish, which isn't good combined with a pet parent who's also new to this. She has good intentions at least, and fortunately made sure I was home testing. She's been trying to review papers, compare notes with other vets, etc. but as I've found out, the learning curve is steep! I was so worried that we'd maxed out the dose and am so glad that's not the case! We'll stay here at 3 units (but drawing more accurately with the new syringes that have the 1/2u marks). I'll keep updating the spreadsheet and see where his numbers go.

By the way, thank you all for helping me care for this silly little creature that I would (and kind of have) turned my life upside down for!

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

By the way, thank you all for helping me care for this silly little creature that I would (and kind of have) turned my life upside down for!

We are all in the same boat there. We all live our kitties.

My vet is still new to the diabetes process and skittish, which isn't good combined with a pet parent who's also new to this. She has good intentions at least, and fortunately made sure I was home testing. She's been trying to review papers, compare notes with other vets, etc. but as I've found out, the learning curve is steep!

I would give her any papers or articles we have here if you think your vet will read them. They don’t get much training at uni for feline diabetes so the more we can help with that the better forFD kitties in the future.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

I'll definitely start taking more readings, didn't realize +3/+9 could be useful too!

My parents have a feeder I can use! They used to use it for their kitty, before I began pet sitting for them.

Thank you for this info! My vet is still new to the diabetes process and skittish, which isn't good combined with a pet parent who's also new to this. She has good intentions at least, and fortunately made sure I was home testing. She's been trying to review papers, compare notes with other vets, etc. but as I've found out, the learning curve is steep! I was so worried that we'd maxed out the dose and am so glad that's not the case! We'll stay here at 3 units (but drawing more accurately with the new syringes that have the 1/2u marks). I'll keep updating the spreadsheet and see where his numbers go.

By the way, thank you all for helping me care for this silly little creature that I would (and kind of have) turned my life upside down for!

My cat needed well over 40 units at one point! But don’t worry, that is not typical— and he had acromegaly which made him extremely insulin resistant. I will take a look at your spreadsheet data, but I will definitely need some testing data to help me to give you good guidance.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Do not increase the dose beyond 3 units at this point. Try to get any of those tests you mentioned and definitely get a good curve in on the weekend. Also, you mentioned waking up at night to get a test. If you could wake up to do a +6 it would be helpful. On a different night a +4 would be great. If you vary it a little until we have a better idea of when his nadir is, that would be so helpful. All data is good data so if you can test when you get home from work that’s good too!

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

You might want to mention FDMB to your vet. We've had several vets monitor the board both for their own learning and to reassure themselves that we're not a bunch of crazy cat ladies (and gentlemen) that tell members to do stupid things. There is a section of the board, Health links/FAQs, that contains all sorts of information and links to publications. We also have guidelines for each of the commonly used types of insulin for treating feline diabetes. Your vet can certainly follow along on your posts to see what we have to say.

 

[PQTaggart]

My cat needed well over 40 units at one point! But don’t worry, that is not typical— and he had acromegaly which made him extremely insulin resistant. I will take a look at your spreadsheet data, but I will definitely need some testing data to help me to give you good guidance.

40?!? If a cat, even with complicating issues can survive (thrive) on 40 units, then Jake can probably handle more than 3!

I talked to my boss and on the rare days that have a lighter workload, I can come home a few times to test. Won't be often, but at least I can provide more data. I'll add some night tests as well and since I'm off for 2 weeks at Christmas I'll grab a bunch then too (he'll be in a stressful place though, we have to travel). He's been sitting around 300 since his shot this morning, which isn't great, but we'll see how the rest of the day goes. Quick question: have you noticed any differences between readings during the day vs the night?

 

[PQTaggart]

You might want to mention FDMB to your vet. We've had several vets monitor the board both for their own learning and to reassure themselves that we're not a bunch of crazy cat ladies (and gentlemen) that tell members to do stupid things. There is a section of the board, Health links/FAQs, that contains all sorts of information and links to publications. We also have guidelines for each of the commonly used types of insulin for treating feline diabetes. Your vet can certainly follow along on your posts to see what we have to say.

That page is ridiculously helpful! I'll send it to her and see if she can check it out. I'm reviewing it too, there's a lot of in-depth info there.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

40?!? If a cat, even with complicating issues can survive (thrive) on 40 units, then Jake can probably handle more than 3!

I talked to my boss and on the rare days that have a lighter workload, I can come home a few times to test. Won't be often, but at least I can provide more data. I'll add some night tests as well and since I'm off for 2 weeks at Christmas I'll grab a bunch then too (he'll be in a stressful place though, we have to travel). He's been sitting around 300 since his shot this morning, which isn't great, but we'll see how the rest of the day goes. Quick question: have you noticed any differences between readings during the day vs the night?

Many cats, but not all, do tend to drop into a bit lower numbers at night.

 

[PQTaggart]

Hi, I've updated Jake's spreadsheet as much as I could with all the work and travel. Doesn't seem like much is changing/improving regarding numbers, though there are the rare good pre-shot readings. Symptoms (when not traveling or stressed) seem to be better and he played energetically for the first time in a long time today Any suggestions or tips? Thanks!

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

I’ll tag @Suzanne & Darcy as she uses Prozinc and I do not.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Hi Megan. It’s been a while. I hope you and Jake are doing well in 2025. Are you at a point in your life where your schedule will be more stable and you will be able to get a few more tests on a regular basis? He has been on this dose for quite a while and I feel like it needs tweaking, but to make informed decisions, I would like to see some more consistent testing or a curve on this dose when you can do it.

 

[PQTaggart]

Unfortunately my schedule is bonkers for a few months, since I'm the on-call emergency response for our safety office during that time. Unexpected, but it's really made things difficult. The only full curve I was able to get (since I was actually home all day for once!) was 12/22/24, but I'll see if I can get more data. Thanks!

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Hi! If it’s possible to get one mid-cycle test per day that would be so helpful! Evening tests count as well. I really think he’s due for an increase, but need data to back that hunch up.

 

[PQTaggart]

For now that's going to be tough, I'm sorry. My boss promised more flexibility, but so far that hasn't worked out - between that and on-call, I can't ever guarantee a mid-day reading. Honestly, I can't guarantee a reading at any time anymore, even at shot time - if there's an emergency, for the next two months I have to go. I'm trying really hard to look on the bright side of things, but I'm doing this all alone now - the family members that offered help so eagerly at first no longer want to be involved, which was rather a blow to hear at Christmas. I'm pretty overwhelmed at the moment. I can try to take PM+6 readings (~2:30am) daily, which would be somewhat more reliable but still not guaranteed. I'm not sure that would be sustainable for very long though. Do you have a guess on how many days/weeks/months of mid-cycle readings you might need to make an accurate assessment, based on past experiences? I'll do what I can to get good data so we can make educated decisions. Thanks for your help and patience.

 

[PQTaggart]

After reading some threads here, maybe it's time I look at the FreeStyle Libre? I just don't seem to be able to get the numbers I need, and that might really help. I'm a little wary since Jake has chewed through shirts before. I'd love to get your thoughts, thanks!

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Yes. I was just going to ask you if a Libre sensor would be a possibility for you! One member that I worked with had a way of getting Libre data sent to her phone remotely when she was at work. I think there may have been a phone she had to leave at home or something… to communicate with her phone at work.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Otherwise, there’s the option of just collecting evening cycle data and using that instead of daytime data. What is your job?

 

[PQTaggart]

Otherwise, there’s the option of just collecting evening cycle data and using that instead of daytime data. What is your job?

I work in safety and emergency response. My schedule is semi-normal ordinarily, and I wasn't slated to be the on-call now; the scheduled person went out on leave unexpectedly. The on-call is the first person contacted after a chemical spill, injury, fire, etc. They're responsible for dispatching and coordinating the police, fire, medical, and hazmat groups. On-call work can be really unpredictable - there might be dozens of calls one week, and only 4 the next.

The main issue with getting full or mid- PM cycle data is that both my regular job and the incident responses can get physically and mentally demanding, so getting a decent amount of sleep has to be a priority. Having a meter that could fill in all the gaps and take readings when I can't would be amazing, especially if it's accessible remotely. My vet is back tomorrow, so I'll reach out and ask about getting one. I read that you can apply the meters yourself once you get used to them - do you know anyone who does that?

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

I work in safety and emergency response. My schedule is semi-normal ordinarily, and I wasn't slated to be the on-call now; the scheduled person went out on leave unexpectedly. The on-call is the first person contacted after a chemical spill, injury, fire, etc. They're responsible for dispatching and coordinating the police, fire, medical, and hazmat groups. On-call work can be really unpredictable - there might be dozens of calls one week, and only 4 the next.

The main issue with getting full or mid- PM cycle data is that both my regular job and the incident responses can get physically and mentally demanding, so getting a decent amount of sleep has to be a priority. Having a meter that could fill in all the gaps and take readings when I can't would be amazing, especially if it's accessible remotely. My vet is back tomorrow, so I'll reach out and ask about getting one. I read that you can apply the meters yourself once you get used to them - do you know anyone who does that?

There’s a Facebook group for how to apply the Freestyle Libre yourself. I think it’s called Freestyle Libre for Dogs and Cats.There are lots of Youtube videos too. I think the main thing is what kind of skin tac to use.

 

[SmallestSparrow]

I work in safety and emergency response. My schedule is semi-normal ordinarily, and I wasn't slated to be the on-call now; the scheduled person went out on leave unexpectedly. The on-call is the first person contacted after a chemical spill, injury, fire, etc. They're responsible for dispatching and coordinating the police, fire, medical, and hazmat groups. On-call work can be really unpredictable - there might be dozens of calls one week, and only 4 the next.

The main issue with getting full or mid- PM cycle data is that both my regular job and the incident responses can get physically and mentally demanding, so getting a decent amount of sleep has to be a priority. Having a meter that could fill in all the gaps and take readings when I can't would be amazing, especially if it's accessible remotely. My vet is back tomorrow, so I'll reach out and ask about getting one. I read that you can apply the meters yourself once you get used to them - do you know anyone who does that?

@Heike & BInie and @Staci & Ivy both apply them to their cats themselves

 

[Staci & Ivy]

@Heike & BInie and @Staci & Ivy both apply them to their cats themselves

Hi, I wanted to let you know that it is most definitely possible to apply the Libre sensor yourself. Heike and I both do that regularly.

I’ve had a Libre 3 sensor on Ivy for about two years now. I changed them regularly whenever is necessary. I make sure to have several on hand at all times. Sometimes they stop working for various reasons and you need to be able to change one at a moment’s notice if necessary.

You are correct that with a Libre 3 you can have the data sent remotely to your own phone. You would need to have a separate phone that you leave it home with your kitty that needs to be within 33 feet of them to read the data and then it is sent through an app and you would receive it on your phone so that way you know what’s happening at all times.

On the freestyle, Libre website there are lists of compatible phones that you can use. If you have a spare older phone or know someone who has one You can use that or you could purchase an inexpensive somewhat older phone. You do not need Any service on the phone so that is not an added cost. I bought a used phone on eBay for Ivy. And that is her phone that reads her sensor via Bluetooth.

There are some glitches with the sensors, but in your situation where you just can’t be home it’s extremely helpful. My cat is not one who will allow me to poke her all the time however, I am able to poke her if she happens to go very low on the Libre sensor. I can doublecheck to make sure what her number is on a handheld meter and since you are already able to poke your kitty, that’s great that you know you can do that.
Information you were given about the Facebook group is correct and it is excellent for giving you all of the information you need to get started. There are videos all kinds of good information. It’s really everything you could need. It’s where I learned everything in one place.
I’m happy to help if you have any questions, please let me know.

 

[Heike & BInie]

@Heike & BInie and @Staci & Ivy both apply them to their cats themselves

Hi Megan, welcome! Staci already gave you excellent infos about the freestyle libre. I can also highly recommend the facebook group. After I started using their methods, I was able to apply the sensor on my own and make it work for the full two weeks most of the time. It will be very helpful for you to have all those data. It's perfect you are also able to test with a handheld, because both in high as well as in low numbers the libre tends to "exaggerate" a bit and the numbers are different to the handheld numbers. So if you are at home, the libre will show you when it is interesting to take another test with a handheld. And it will alarm you if the bg goes low while you sleep. It definitely gave me peace of mind. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!

 

[PQTaggart]

Hi, I wanted to let you know that it is most definitely possible to apply the Libre sensor yourself. Heike and I both do that regularly.

I’ve had a Libre 3 sensor on Ivy for about two years now. I changed them regularly whenever is necessary. I make sure to have several on hand at all times. Sometimes they stop working for various reasons and you need to be able to change one at a moment’s notice if necessary.

You are correct that with a Libre 3 you can have the data sent remotely to your own phone. You would need to have a separate phone that you leave it home with your kitty that needs to be within 33 feet of them to read the data and then it is sent through an app and you would receive it on your phone so that way you know what’s happening at all times.

On the freestyle, Libre website there are lists of compatible phones that you can use. If you have a spare older phone or know someone who has one You can use that or you could purchase an inexpensive somewhat older phone. You do not need Any service on the phone so that is not an added cost. I bought a used phone on eBay for Ivy. And that is her phone that reads her sensor via Bluetooth.

There are some glitches with the sensors, but in your situation where you just can’t be home it’s extremely helpful. My cat is not one who will allow me to poke her all the time however, I am able to poke her if she happens to go very low on the Libre sensor. I can doublecheck to make sure what her number is on a handheld meter and since you are already able to poke your kitty, that’s great that you know you can do that.
Information you were given about the Facebook group is correct and it is excellent for giving you all of the information you need to get started. There are videos all kinds of good information. It’s really everything you could need. It’s where I learned everything in one place.
I’m happy to help if you have any questions, please let me know.

Oh my gosh, it took forever to get the meter and go to the vet! We put on the FreeStyle Libre 3+ this afternoon and it's reading very close to the AlphaTrak 3, which is interesting. The sensor application was really easy after reading everything from the facebook group (I did it with the vet supervising). I actually had more trouble with the clippers than the sensor :/ Unfortunately my parents old phone doesn't work with the app, so I'll go get a cheap one tonight. Can you let me know the best way to share the Libre data here, once I have some anyway?

 

[Staci & Ivy]

Oh my gosh, it took forever to get the meter and go to the vet! We put on the FreeStyle Libre 3+ this afternoon and it's reading very close to the AlphaTrak 3, which is interesting. The sensor application was really easy after reading everything from the facebook group (I did it with the vet supervising). I actually had more trouble with the clippers than the sensor :/ Unfortunately my parents old phone doesn't work with the app, so I'll go get a cheap one tonight. Can you let me know the best way to share the Libre data here, once I have some anyway?

Hi Megan,
Congratulations on getting the Libre sensor placed! Good luck!

It’s best if you start a new thread each day and link your last post so people can follow your journey and help along the way.

You can just fill in your spreadsheet with the data. Will you be only using the Libre sensor for data or will you also be doing some manual testing and want to put that on your spreadsheet as well?
I would advise any low bg numbers be checked with a handheld meter.
You can enter both numbers in one cell on the spreadsheet.
Feel free to look at mine as an example.
When I do an ear prick I write 52 L (for Libre) 145 C (for Contour Next meter).
Hope this helps.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Way to go! You did it! I look forward to helping with the dosing once we can get mid-cycle numbers. I can tell even from limited data that we need to make some adjustments. If you post on the ProZinc forum (you do not need to make a new post every day, although we try to limit the thread length to 50) I will see it in my Inbox and be able to respond.