New Member Flora

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pomflora

pomflora

Member Since 2020
Hi everyone,

I am Katie, and this is Flora, who is 16 and has a twin brother, Pom.
Flora is very newly diagnosed (May 4) and has been prescribed Lantus but I am not administering yet, as I try to get information and purchase supplies. I am a bit confused with so much information! I have gone through many health issues with other kitties but this is seriously overwhelming.

I have already changed diet for kitties and hope that will make a small difference. I did make a spreadsheet and just trying to enter info on it now.

of course the biggest thing I am worried on is her health prior to starting the insulin. Flora is eating and drinking well day to day but I can see the periods where she is lagging. She is recovering from an ear infection as well. I think her numbers are very high. Is it best to post those numbers in spreadsheet or here?

thank you so much everybody.

Katie and Flora
 
Welcome to FDMB! We are so glad you found us! Theres a wealth of information here and people to help you to decipher it!
I think you have to change something about your spread sheet access. It says I need permission to look at it.
Do I understand this right you have insulin but are not administering it?

This really is the best place to come for help. lease hang in there for more responses Whilr you're at it, give little Flora some scritches from us. ;)
jeanne
 
Hi Katie and Flora and welcome!!!

best to put the numbers in the ss but I just tried the link in your signature and it’s asking for permission so you need to make sure in the settings that you made it public so we can all see. Let us know if you need help with that.

How many units of Lantus did your vet recommend and can you tell us what and how much you’re feeding her right now?

it would also be super helpful if you could add a few more details to your signature like birthday, day of diagnoses, any other meds she’s on and the food. Take a look at mine as an example. But congrats on already having that and the ss setup!!

Diabetes is manageable and cats can live a healthy life once it’s regulated. It’s a bit of work on us to get them there, but I’ve been dealing with it for over a year and you just get used to it. It will all be fine :cat:

the other thing folks will suggest is that you home test her so you can monitor the BG levels daily and know how to adjust the dose in case you need to. We can give you lots of tips on how to do that, but you’ll need to get a meter, test strips and lancets. You don’t need an expensive pet meter, a human meter like freestyle or ReliOn is what most of us use and they’re just as reliable. Baby steps. As many say here, feline diabetes is a marathon not a sprint

take a deep breath and know you’ve come to the right place for help, guidance and support! :bighug:
 
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Thanks so much yes, I just updated the SS so I hope it is accessible? I posted her Lab numbers there and will add some more info to my profile on her diet etc.

I was prescribed for Flora as of May 8th 2 units twice a day of Lantus. A 10 ml bottle. But she has not started on it yet, I am hoping to start her on a schedule with all the supplies by later in the week. In the meantime, I have modified her diet to a much lower carb version of Fancy Feast as she was eating the kind with lots of gravy. I will add that to my signature.

Thanks so much.





QUOTE="jt and trouble (GA), post: 2569307, member: 155"]Welcome to FDMB! We are so glad you found us! Theres a wealth of information here and people to help you to decipher it!
I think you have to change something about your spread sheet access. It says I need permission to look at it.
Do I understand this right you have insulin but are not administering it?

This really is the best place to come for help. lease hang in there for more responses Whilr you're at it, give little Flora some scritches from us. ;)
jeanne[/QUOTE]
 
Aleluia Grugru & Minnie said:
Hi Katie and Flora and welcome!!!

best to put the numbers in the ss but I just tried the link in your signature and it’s asking for permission so you need to make sure in the settings that you made it public so we can all see. Let us know if you need help with that.

How many units of Lantus did your vet recommend and can you tell us what and how much you’re feeding her right now?

it would also be super helpful if you could add a few more details to your signature like birthday, day of diagnoses, any other meds she’s on and the food. Take a look at mine as an example. But congrats on already having that and the ss setup!!

Hi, Thank you! I just changed the SS and hope it is working? I

Diabetes is manageable and cats can live a healthy life once it’s regulated. It’s a bit of work on us to get them there, but I’ve been dealing with it for over a year and you just get used to it. It will all be fine :cat:

the other thing folks will suggest is that you home test her so you can monitor the BG levels daily and know how to adjust the dose in case you need to. We can give you lots of tips on how to do that, but you’ll need to get a meter, test strips and lancets. You don’t need an expensive pet meter, a human meter like freestyle or ReliOn is what most of us use and they’re just as reliable. Baby steps. As many say here, feline diabetes is a marathon not a sprint

take a deep breath and know you’ve come to the right place for help, guidance and support! :bighug:
Click to expand...
Aleluia Grugru & Minnie said:
Hi Katie and Flora and welcome!!!

best to put the numbers in the ss but I just tried the link in your signature and it’s asking for permission so you need to make sure in the settings that you made it public so we can all see. Let us know if you need help with that.

How many units of Lantus did your vet recommend and can you tell us what and how much you’re feeding her right now?

it would also be super helpful if you could add a few more details to your signature like birthday, day of diagnoses, any other meds she’s on and the food. Take a look at mine as an example. But congrats on already having that and the ss setup!!

Diabetes is manageable and cats can live a healthy life once it’s regulated. It’s a bit of work on us to get them there, but I’ve been dealing with it for over a year and you just get used to it. It will all be fine :cat:

the other thing folks will suggest is that you home test her so you can monitor the BG levels daily and know how to adjust the dose in case you need to. We can give you lots of tips on how to do that, but you’ll need to get a meter, test strips and lancets. You don’t need an expensive pet meter, a human meter like freestyle or ReliOn is what most of us use and they’re just as reliable. Baby steps. As many say here, feline diabetes is a marathon not a sprint

take a deep breath and know you’ve come to the right place for help, guidance and support! :bighug:
Click to expand...
 
You'll get a crash college level course in treating Feline Diabetes, with all the knowledge here. Don't let us overwhelm you! ;)

Do you have any BG numbers to put on the SS (spreadsheet) yet?
If you could add the insulin you are using to both the SS and your signature, that would be great.
There is a spot at the top left of the SS, where the type of insulin used goes. And your test meter goes to the right of that.
 
Hi Deb, I only have her initial Glucose which I posted in the SS under the Labs sheet is it visible? It was 501. High. I didn't put the insulin on spreadsheet yet as she is not receiving yet, should I add it as Prescibed?
 
pomflora said:
Hi Deb, I only have her initial Glucose which I posted in the SS under the Labs sheet is it visible? It was 501. High. I didn't put the insulin on spreadsheet yet as she is not receiving yet, should I add it as Prescibed?
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Deb will correct me if I’m wrong, but I think you want to add the 501 into the ss at the approximate time they tested her at the vet with the date so it’s there as a reference when you start testing. I’d also enter the prescribed insulin as of right now, which is Lantus and under the units column you can just enter zero so we know no dose. Once she’s on insulin, if you ever have to skip a dose because her BG dropped too low, enter zero in that column. It’s easier for people to always see a number in there :)
 
If you could put that initial BG on the SS, along with the date that test was done, that would be good.

No need to put any other rows on the SS for now. Even before you do start the insulin, there should be 1 row for every day. Even if you did not manage to get a BG test, it helps our brains to process the information better if days are not skipped.

What Ale said. Darn, I don't type fast enough these days!
 
Thank you, will do...I realized (duh) she actually got a BG in her follow up visit after initial labs, so I will add both of those with the dates. I would welcome any feedback on her labs if that's appropriate...She will be back to the vet next Monday (May 18) and I will update her BG again.
 
Hi all!

Okay, after printing out the Spreadsheet specs I think I finally figured out how to enter the BG into it. I used a zero reference for the Lantus dose and used the office visit time for the time of the reading(s).

I hope that's right! Thanks, Katie and Flora
 
pomflora said:
Hi all!

Okay, after printing out the Spreadsheet specs I think I finally figured out how to enter the BG into it. I used a zero reference for the Lantus dose and used the office visit time for the time of the reading(s).

I hope that's right! Thanks, Katie and Flora
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Looks good to me! :)

did you get set up for home testing yet? Meaning did you get or order a meter, etc?
 
Hi Katie, SS data looks ok. Good job!

Is Flora getting insulin right now? You don't want to wait too long before you start insulin, once you know your cat is diabetic.

Would you please add the insulin used (going to be used) to your signature, so we can see that info at a glance? Thanks.

Understanding the Spreadsheet/Grid
For when you start giving the insulin, and doing home testing yourself.
 
Hi!

Okay just added the Lantus to my signature. She is not having it administered yet, I have a vet visit next Monday and that is the day targeted to begin. I am keeping a close eye on her and managing her eating carefully. She is in good spirits and able to walk all around the house, no throwing up, no problem with legs.

I will be able to get the meter tomorrow and wanted to know what type you all recommended?
 
Deb & Wink said:
Hi Katie, SS data looks ok. Good job!

Is Flora getting insulin right now? You don't want to wait too long before you start insulin, once you know your cat is diabetic.

Would you please add the insulin used (going to be used) to your signature, so we can see that info at a glance? Thanks.

Understanding the Spreadsheet/Grid
For when you start giving the insulin, and doing home testing yourself.
Click to expand...
Okay, done, and just figured out how to post my replies on the Forum as well ha.

I am aiming for Monday to start her on her insulin, but if I can fill the RX before then I will. My vet knows the situation and told me signs to watch for until she starts. I'm a bit nervous but happy to have the support here.
 
pomflora said:
Okay, done, and just figured out how to post my replies on the Forum as well ha.

I am aiming for Monday to start her on her insulin, but if I can fill the RX before then I will. My vet knows the situation and told me signs to watch for until she starts. I'm a bit nervous but happy to have the support here.
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We recommend human meters not need to do with the expensive pet meters. You’ll be going through test strips fast so it’s more about the price of the strips than the actual meter. The 2 most used here are freestyle and ReliOn from Walmart. ReliOn you can buy at an Walmart near you as well as the test strips and lancets. Call first to make sure they have it in stock. No prescription needed for either one and I have both now. For freestyle you have to order online and wait for it to arrive. I like affordable diabetic. Shipping is free and fast they have a 5% off code which is SAVE5
 
Aleluia Grugru & Minnie said:
We recommend human meters not need to do with the expensive pet meters. You’ll be going through test strips fast so it’s more about the price of the strips than the actual meter. The 2 most used here are freestyle and ReliOn from Walmart. ReliOn you can buy at an Walmart near you as well as the test strips and lancets. Call first to make sure they have it in stock. No prescription needed for either one and I have both now. For freestyle you have to order online and wait for it to arrive. I like affordable diabetic. Shipping is free and fast they have a 5% off code which is SAVE5
Click to expand...

Aah thanks yes I think I saw those meters mentioned earlier I was looking at the thread for them. I will check out our local availability. I don't think Flora is going to be thrilled with any of this but that's another story!:cat:
 
pomflora said:
Okay, they actually have the meter and the strips in stock but not the lancets. So will have to order the lancets. Am I correct in that those are the three components I need or is there something I am missing? Also, correct that each brand's lancets only work with their own meter?

Thanks for your patience everyone...
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You do need the lancets to actually “prick” the ear but it’s not like the strips that need to match the meter. You can use any lancet brand since it doesn’t go anywhere near the actual meter, just on kitty’s ear. Maybe a local pharmacy may have it? It’d be a shame to have to wait for that only
 
Aleluia Grugru & Minnie said:
You do need the lancets to actually “prick” the ear but it’s not like the strips that need to match the meter. You can use any lancet brand since it doesn’t go anywhere near the actual meter, just on kitty’s ear. Maybe a local pharmacy may have it? It’d be a shame to have to wait for that only
Click to expand...

Okay got it! Then I will try to just pick up a different brand of Lancet when there as it looked like they have others. I'll let you know what I end up with!
 
Aleluia Grugru & Minnie said:
I suggest you start with a 26 or 28 gauge because they make larger perforations than higher number gauges and it’s easier on beginners to get enough blood out. Good shopping!
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Hi! Okay that is good to know ❤ I actually ordered all from Wal-Mart to be delivered by Friday, rather than go in person. I am in stay at home situation with my mom, who is 79, and trips out are limited per family, if items can be delivered. I ordered 30 gauge but a local friend has a box of the lower number that she can leave in my mailbox when she is in area Friday. So almost there!

I had good news to get assistance on the Lantus and additional supplies and I am very grateful. That will arrive in a few weeks, so right now I am aiming for starting testing Friday, and then picking up a supply of Lantus on Saturday, locally, to last until I receive additional Lantus.

In the meantime, Flora is fine with her newer flavors of Fancy Feast. Not thrilled...but ok. She is missing the gravy for sure.
 
Have you tried mixing a bit of warm water in with Flora's Fancy Feast pate style foods? Kind of helps to make a bit of a gravy like consistency when you do that. Plus, a little extra water never hurt a diabetic cat, and helps to keep them better hydrated. Important since they are peeing so much.
 
Hi everyone! Just today's update, Flora is doing well overall and will see the vet again Monday 9 am. I am waiting for the arrival of the testing items from Wal-Mart which should be here any minute yay! I learned a lot yesterday about conditioning her for testing and getting everything set up. She and Pom also have new treats that fit into new diet...the Lantus and insulin supplies have been ordered for us and we are very grateful for that help.

So I am absorbing as much info as I can about the testing since I will be starting soon...a bit nervous. Stay tuned.
 
pomflora said:
Hi everyone! Just today's update, Flora is doing well overall and will see the vet again Monday 9 am. I am waiting for the arrival of the testing items from Wal-Mart which should be here any minute yay! I learned a lot yesterday about conditioning her for testing and getting everything set up. She and Pom also have new treats that fit into new diet...the Lantus and insulin supplies have been ordered for us and we are very grateful for that help.

So I am absorbing as much info as I can about the testing since I will be starting soon...a bit nervous. Stay tuned.
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It’s normal to be nervous unless you’re dead lol. It s like stage fright. I’ve been testing for months and was a nervous mess simply because I switched meters. Anything new is scary. Just take a few deepp breaths and the most important thing to remember is take your time. Don’t rush. When I rush it goes horribly wrong. If you’re having a hard time after 3 attempts, take a break wait a few minutes than try again. Better for you and Flora. Trust me. To me also equally important is making sure the ear is warm to the touch. It makes all the difference in getting enough blood out. If at first you don’t succeed, try again and again and again :bighug:
 
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Thanks, and thinking of Minnie...I am sitting outside in parking lot while Flora has her check up. Hate to be outside! They will make sure she has no lingering ear infection, check her BG, and blood pressure. Her ears seem all good and I have been preparing her for testing and she hasn't complained about her new treats. I should add to spreadsheet yes? Talking to myself!

Also looking for suggestions for tastier food as she missing her gravy. Does anyone use homemade broth with their food? Or is that a no no due to lack of nutrition info?
 
Experimenting with food, broth and gravy with these two fickle babies! Whatever I give to Flora has to please Pom as well overall.

The best news is that the insulin and supplies arrived this morning! And Flora was in excellent spirits at her vet appt yesterday and her ear infection is just about entirely cleared up, no more ear meds. She is comfortable having ears touched, massaged, etc, so I am quite relieved about that. We have set up a room with all of the supplies and treats and I though I am nervous, yes, it is time to do the testing myself and get this process going!

I am just writing down schedule for following. Also updated my SS but wasn't sure if I needed to further update Meter info? I will be using the Relion Prime. Any help on SS is appreciated.

Thank you all
 
Hi!

Okay after numerous tries on myself I finally got the hang of the Relion meter somewhat....so Flora just had her first at home test with me. At 9.19 pm, a 366. I am trying for a 9.30 am and pm test and shot time for the schedule, so that was good timing. No insulin yet. I would like to start that tomorrow and would love some input.

I have no idea on what the 366 number reflects or doesnt overall but not as high as at the vet!
 

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Good job on your first BG test for Flora!

We live all over the world, so saying 9:19 pm or 9:30 AM isn't going to help us much.
When you test before you give the shot, that is the pre-shot test.
Every test after the time you give the insulin shot (unless you are stalling) is expressed in a + hour format.
So 1 hour after the insulin shot is +1, 2 hours after the insulin shot, is +2, etc.

If 9:30 am and 9:30 pm your time, are going to be your regular pre-shot test times, then put the test data from last night and today in the pre-shot column for the correct day and cycle and put 0 (zero) in for the insulin dose, since you aren't giving insulin yet.

A test at your 10:30 would go in the +1 column. Got it?

The 366 is kind of in the middle of the range. Not great but not horrible up in the red and black number ranges on the SS.

Eventually, you want to get Flora better regulated, below renal threshold ( renal threshold = spilling glucose into the urine) and then down into the blue and green number ranges.
 
Deb & Wink said:
Good job on your first BG test for Flora!

We live all over the world, so saying 9:19 pm or 9:30 AM isn't going to help us much.
When you test before you give the shot, that is the pre-shot test.
Every test after the time you give the insulin shot (unless you are stalling) is expressed in a + hour format.
So 1 hour after the insulin shot is +1, 2 hours after the insulin shot, is +2, etc.

If 9:30 am and 9:30 pm your time, are going to be your regular pre-shot test times, then put the test data from last night and today in the pre-shot column for the correct day and cycle and put 0 (zero) in for the insulin dose, since you aren't giving insulin yet.

A test at your 10:30 would go in the +1 column. Got it?

The 366 is kind of in the middle of the range. Not great but not horrible up in the red and black number ranges on the SS.

Eventually, you want to get Flora better regulated, below renal threshold ( renal threshold = spilling glucose into the urine) and then down into the blue and green number ranges.
Click to expand...
Ok, sorry, I am a bit confused with the SS. I will look again. Once I start shots I think it will make more sense. For now, I am incredibly frustrated with testing and hoping for that to get better.
 
jt and trouble (GA) said:
Sending positive thoughts for testing to go well!
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Thank you! We don't have a microwave but trying different ways to warm the ear. I just used a small plastic bottle filled with hot water and that seemed to work. I also am having a bit of frustration with the Relion Prime meter turning off automatically while I still getting the blood. Not happy with that! So just practicing my technique to try to beat the clock. Getting there slowly.
 
pomflora said:
Relion Prime meter turning off automatically while I still getting the blood.
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Katie, I know how frustrating that is! Stay calm and know that if you have to do it again, you can.
Geting everything ready and close at hand. Try putting the strip into the meter part-way so the glucometer doesn't recognize it and start timing (and asking for blood), but it won't fall out. Once you get a good drop of blood, pick up the glucometer with your free hand push it the strip in the rest of the way (I tap gently on a table), then touch the tip to that nice drop. If it shuts off or you get an error code, take a deep breath, pet the kitty and try again.
 
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