Hello Everyone...my name is Jade and my 11 year old boy Boots was diagnosed with diabetes just this afternoon and my mind is reeling...not only from the cost (which is sounding like it's WAY beyond my means) but all the things I will have to do to keep him healthy..I'm a single mom who works full-time (sometimes more.) From what my vet told me, I will have to put him on expensive insulin, along with weekly vet visits to check his levels. My vet visit today was 200 dollars, so I am looking at 200 every week til the dr can "get in under control." And then all the shots at home, the monitoring... We did also have the horrible conversation about putting him down, but that thought is so painful that I can barely process it...but I just don't see any other way! 1000 dollars a month is so far out of my reach...does anyone have any advice for me?
new to all of this.....
- Thread starter Jade77
- Start date
- Status
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Hello Jade and your sugardude Boots and welcome to the FDMB, the best place in the universe to help your diabetic cat.
Yes, this can be pretty overwhelming. We can help save you some money. You do not need to pay your vet $200 a week to get your cat regulated. You can learn to home test and we have helped many people to do that.
The insulin will cost you some money. A vial of Lantus can last 4-6 months with proper care. We will tell you how.
The manufacturer of Lantus, a very good insulin for cats, has a Savings Card program for the Solostar pens, $25 for the first 6 prescriptions.
You will have some up front costs to treat your cat's diabetes. A human glucometer, insulin syringes, lancets, test strips, the insulin.
It will NOT cost you $1000 a month to treat your cat's diabetes.
Where do you live? US, Canada? International? country, state/province would be nice to share.
Take a deep breath, hold, release, take a deep breath, hold, release, take a deep breath, hold, release.
Yes, this can be pretty overwhelming. We can help save you some money. You do not need to pay your vet $200 a week to get your cat regulated. You can learn to home test and we have helped many people to do that.
The insulin will cost you some money. A vial of Lantus can last 4-6 months with proper care. We will tell you how.
The manufacturer of Lantus, a very good insulin for cats, has a Savings Card program for the Solostar pens, $25 for the first 6 prescriptions.
You will have some up front costs to treat your cat's diabetes. A human glucometer, insulin syringes, lancets, test strips, the insulin.
It will NOT cost you $1000 a month to treat your cat's diabetes.
Where do you live? US, Canada? International? country, state/province would be nice to share.
Take a deep breath, hold, release, take a deep breath, hold, release, take a deep breath, hold, release.
I live in the US, on the east coast. Thank you so much for responding! This situation is heartbreaking. I left the vets office and asked her to give me a couple days to consider my options, because the mere thought of not having him around anymore kills me. The cost of the insulin is a lot less scary than the thought of paying the vet to monitor him every week for an undetermined amount of time..she wasn't very helpful either..she didn't even tell me what kind of food to switch him to until I decide what to do...though I have read on some of these threads that wet food seems to be at the top of the list.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Hi, I'm on the east coast myself, up in Massachusetts. Which state do you live in?
There are 3 legs, so to speak, for treating feline diabetes.
1. Low carb canned wet food.
2. A good insulin. Lantus, Levimir, Prozinc.
3. Home testing.
Does Boots like canned food now? or does he prefer dry food?
What is his current food? Brand and type.
Many of us, including me, feed the Friskies pate style, Fancy Feast pate style or Wellness. These are all under 10% carbs and good for a diabetic cat. If you switch your cat to these low carb foods now, his BG (blood glucose) numbers can drop dramatically. It's a good first step in managing the diabetes before you even start the insulin.
There are 3 legs, so to speak, for treating feline diabetes.
1. Low carb canned wet food.
2. A good insulin. Lantus, Levimir, Prozinc.
3. Home testing.
Does Boots like canned food now? or does he prefer dry food?
What is his current food? Brand and type.
Many of us, including me, feed the Friskies pate style, Fancy Feast pate style or Wellness. These are all under 10% carbs and good for a diabetic cat. If you switch your cat to these low carb foods now, his BG (blood glucose) numbers can drop dramatically. It's a good first step in managing the diabetes before you even start the insulin.
I live in down south in Georgia. He does like wet food, he prefers it but I kept it to a minimum because he used to be very overweight, so I put him on Purina indoor formula and he has been on that for years. How long has your kitty been living with diabetes? I have a very close friend (we grew up together) who is a veterinary technician, and she says in her experience it's best to put the cat down... Im so lost on how to handle this.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
My sugarkitty Wink has had diabetes for about 10 months. Possibly longer. His former owners abandoned him when they decided they did not want to take care of him any more. He is a foster cat from my local animal shelter. Wink has been OTJ (off the juice, insulin being the juice) for 4 months now. He is what we call a diet controlled diabetic.
He was totally unregulated at the cat shelter, huge flakes of dandruff, matted dull looking fur, severe diabetic neuropathy, always hungry. He was in the shelter for 4 and a half months before I took him in to foster.
I switched this dry food addict from high carb dry Hill's W/D food to low carb wet food in about 3 weeks and that made a huge difference in his BG numbers.
It was easy to learn to home test and I'm glad I did. It enabled me to feel confident about giving Wink his insulin shots and a sense of control as to what was going on.
I definitely disagree with your vet tech friend. Diabetes is not a death sentence for cats or people. Like people, this is a very treatable condition.
Our cats are our children too, just furry ones. We love them dearly. We have many diabetic cats here that live long, healthy lives. Some for many years, 4, 8, 10 years or more. As with humans, treatment for feline diabetes has come a long way in the last 5-10 years.
It will mean some changes to your life. Changes to your routines and developing new routines to help Boots. We can help you all along the way. Won't you consider giving Boots a fighting chance?
BJM
Member Since 2010
If you're willing to learn as much as you can, then act on it, your cat may live his normal lifespan.
That vet tech has never been on this board and seen what diligent monitoring, appropriate food, and good insulin can do for a diabetic cat. The tech probably has seen folks who throw up their hands and give up.
While you're considering your decision, if you aren't on insulin yet, a gradual switch over several days to low carb, high protein, canned or raw food, may drop his glucose 100 mg/dL. To understand why we recommend that, please go to Cat Info, a web site written by vet Dr Lisa Pierson. There's a printable food list there, too.
Inexpensive foods include Friskies pates and Fancy Feast Classic pates.
That vet tech has never been on this board and seen what diligent monitoring, appropriate food, and good insulin can do for a diabetic cat. The tech probably has seen folks who throw up their hands and give up.
While you're considering your decision, if you aren't on insulin yet, a gradual switch over several days to low carb, high protein, canned or raw food, may drop his glucose 100 mg/dL. To understand why we recommend that, please go to Cat Info, a web site written by vet Dr Lisa Pierson. There's a printable food list there, too.
Inexpensive foods include Friskies pates and Fancy Feast Classic pates.
Hope + (((Baby)))GA
Member Since 2009
Patches(GA) was diabetic for 4 years before I lost him to renal failure at 16. That was in 1990 long before FDMB and all the knowledge available now. We winged it and he had a great 4 years living with diabetes. Baby(GA) was diabetic for 5 1/2 years before I lost her to heart at the age of 18+. Hope was diabetic for 4 1/2 years before dx'd with a heart condition that for some reason put her into remission for the last 6 1/2 years. Mishka has been diabetic for close to 10 years, (Oct.), gets her two shots every day. I adopted MC at the age of 16 1/2, diabetic and was going to be euthanized. She turned 17 last May and is doing beautifully. Your vet tech friend is so wrong.......so very wrong. Low carb canned food, hometesting a must and a lifesaver, and insulin twice a day (hopefully Lantus, Levemir or Prozinc, never Humulin N) and your kitty can go on and live a long and normal life with a good chance of remission when using Lantus.
FWIW, I adopted Hope, Mishka and MC because they were diabetic and needed a home. I would rather hear from a vet that a cat has diabetes than a cancer any day.
None of mine have ever had curves done at a vet office. I give the vet the numbers but I also decide the dose after all these years. I know my cats better than a vet ever will and I know which ones spike the numbers up from vet stress and which ones don't. The more you read and learn the more you will understand. Ask questions here anytime and as many as you need to ask. It will all fall into place and become second hand in no time. You can do it cat_pet_icon and you will also create an amazing bond with Boots, more so than what you may have right now.
FWIW, I adopted Hope, Mishka and MC because they were diabetic and needed a home. I would rather hear from a vet that a cat has diabetes than a cancer any day.
None of mine have ever had curves done at a vet office. I give the vet the numbers but I also decide the dose after all these years. I know my cats better than a vet ever will and I know which ones spike the numbers up from vet stress and which ones don't. The more you read and learn the more you will understand. Ask questions here anytime and as many as you need to ask. It will all fall into place and become second hand in no time. You can do it cat_pet_icon and you will also create an amazing bond with Boots, more so than what you may have right now.
Wendy&Tiggy(GA)
Member Since 2011
Hello and welcome,
Unfortunately it sounds like both the vet people you talked to are out of date. My vet told me curves at the vet were expensive and inaccurate and asked me to test at home.
Putting your cat down would be such a shame since 84% of cats go into remission in the first six months with a low carb wet food, a good insulin like lantus, and home testing. Then they don't need insulin after that! Your kitty deserves that chance.
First thing to do, is change his food to something like the inexpensive low carb friskies pâtés and get a cheap home test kit. That change alone can sometimes be enough. I am in the office today so I will let deb get you the shopping list.
Wendy
Unfortunately it sounds like both the vet people you talked to are out of date. My vet told me curves at the vet were expensive and inaccurate and asked me to test at home.
Putting your cat down would be such a shame since 84% of cats go into remission in the first six months with a low carb wet food, a good insulin like lantus, and home testing. Then they don't need insulin after that! Your kitty deserves that chance.
First thing to do, is change his food to something like the inexpensive low carb friskies pâtés and get a cheap home test kit. That change alone can sometimes be enough. I am in the office today so I will let deb get you the shopping list.
Wendy
Thank you all so much for all of this info. I went out late last night and got the friskies pate wet food, how much should I be giving him a day? Also, my biggest concern about home testing and insulin shots and all of that is I work 10 hours a day, sometimes closing my store then opening...my vet tech friend said that unless I can "go all out" and be available for all the things I have to do for him, it isn't going to do him any good. There are days I dont get home til 11pm,(and I leave at 12 in the afternoon) and I have to be up and out the door for another 10 hour day at 6 am.
Chris & Cheshire
Member Since 2013
Hey Jade. My cat just got diagnosed on Friday, and I know how overwhelmed you're feeling... all too well.
One thing that's missing from your post is what symptoms your cat was having and what his quality of life is like. If he's in really bad shape, maybe putting him down is the humane option, but I didn't get that impression from your posts. Please let us know what his symptoms are like.
Unless he's in really bad health, I think you should at least try switching your cat to wet, low-carb food before you think about putting him down. What I've read around here, the low-carb food can make a huge difference, and if that's enough to improve his health then that's easy. There's a big list of all the canned food that's low-carb; I just went with Friskie's because it's cheap and available everywhere. Here's a link to the shopping list of low-carb foods, but normal humans probably only need the Fancy Feast and Friskies section (pasted in below).
I'm trying home testing and it's a lot of time and work. It's very satisfying when it works, and it's frustrating when it doesn't. But to spend 20 minutes two times a day to *maybe* get one reading? And supposed to do that 4 or 8 times a day? AND keep the same schedule every day? That's not realistic for someone who works. Hopefully a better diet, occasional readings and some insulin (or not) will be enough to help my cat out.
If money's tight, you might talk with your vet about trying the low-carb diet before starting insulin. Insulin ain't cheap, and there's a some expense and hassle that comes with it. I spent 90 on insulin, 10 on needles, 15 on glucose monitor, 10 on testing strips, 5 on lancets. It adds up, and then takes an hour or more a day. But they say it gets quicker and easier, so I'm trying it out for a while. But if the food works pretty well for my cat, you can bet that BG monitor is going in a drawer (and would eventually be donated to someone else on this board).
It's just balancing what you're investing (time and money), and what your cat's quality of life is. Only you can know that balance.
I work for a nursing company that does home health and hospice care (in the office, not as a nurse), but one thing you realize in that industry is that everyone and everything dies eventually. The question isn't whether you die, it's how you live. I think you do what you can - financially and emotionally - see what kind of quality of life your cat has, ask yourself, "Would I be okay living like that?", and then make decisions. If he's doing generally well but has occasional problems, maybe he's ok for now. If he's constantly sick or miserable, maybe not. Only you can know. But I think you at least try changing the food first since that's cheap and low-effort, and has a reasonable chance of showing some improvement.
Low Carb Foods
carbs in % - last number is phosphorus (Kidney disease cats need under 250 phosphorus)
4% - fancy feast CLASSICS chicken feast- 546 - beware of those that are not classics ...
4%- fancy feast chopped grilled feast pate -569
2%- fancy feast cod, sole & shrimp feast pate – 787
4%- fancy feast Ocean Whitefish and tuna pate 823
1% -fancy feast Savory Salmon feast pate – 369
5% -fancy feast Tender beef feast pate -637
5% -fancy feast Tender beef and chicken feast pate -502
5% - fancy feast Tender beef and liver feast pate – 525
4% -fancy feast Tender liver and chicken feast pate -598
3% - fancy feast Turkey & giblets feast pate – 355
5% -fancy feast salmon and shrimp feast -550
4% -fancy feast kitten tender turkey feast -474
5% - fancy feast kitten tender ocean whitefish feast - 689
5% -fancy feast chunky chicken feast -637
7% - fancy feast chunky turkey feast -624
7% -fancy feast chunky chopped grill feast - 454
8% - fancy feast Flaked chicken and tuna feast - 434
0% - fancy feast Flaked fish and shrimp feast - 701
8% - fancy feast Flaked Salmon and whitefish feast - 458
7% - fancy feast Flaked Trout feast-395
8% - Friskies flaked with tuna and egg 415
9% - Friskies Poultry platter – 438
5% - Friskies Special diet Beef and Liver entree 241
5% - Friskies Special diet Turkey and Giblets dinner pate 189
5% - Friskies Special diet Beef and Chicken Entree pate 242
4% - Friskies Special Diet Whitefish dinner 351
7% - Friskies Special Diet with Salmon 228
7% - Friskies Salmon dinner classic pate 499
8% - Friskies Turkey and Giblets dinner 338
8% - Friskies Supreme Supper 416
6% - Friskies Mariner's Catch 393
One thing that's missing from your post is what symptoms your cat was having and what his quality of life is like. If he's in really bad shape, maybe putting him down is the humane option, but I didn't get that impression from your posts. Please let us know what his symptoms are like.
Unless he's in really bad health, I think you should at least try switching your cat to wet, low-carb food before you think about putting him down. What I've read around here, the low-carb food can make a huge difference, and if that's enough to improve his health then that's easy. There's a big list of all the canned food that's low-carb; I just went with Friskie's because it's cheap and available everywhere. Here's a link to the shopping list of low-carb foods, but normal humans probably only need the Fancy Feast and Friskies section (pasted in below).
I'm trying home testing and it's a lot of time and work. It's very satisfying when it works, and it's frustrating when it doesn't. But to spend 20 minutes two times a day to *maybe* get one reading? And supposed to do that 4 or 8 times a day? AND keep the same schedule every day? That's not realistic for someone who works. Hopefully a better diet, occasional readings and some insulin (or not) will be enough to help my cat out.
If money's tight, you might talk with your vet about trying the low-carb diet before starting insulin. Insulin ain't cheap, and there's a some expense and hassle that comes with it. I spent 90 on insulin, 10 on needles, 15 on glucose monitor, 10 on testing strips, 5 on lancets. It adds up, and then takes an hour or more a day. But they say it gets quicker and easier, so I'm trying it out for a while. But if the food works pretty well for my cat, you can bet that BG monitor is going in a drawer (and would eventually be donated to someone else on this board).
It's just balancing what you're investing (time and money), and what your cat's quality of life is. Only you can know that balance.
I work for a nursing company that does home health and hospice care (in the office, not as a nurse), but one thing you realize in that industry is that everyone and everything dies eventually. The question isn't whether you die, it's how you live. I think you do what you can - financially and emotionally - see what kind of quality of life your cat has, ask yourself, "Would I be okay living like that?", and then make decisions. If he's doing generally well but has occasional problems, maybe he's ok for now. If he's constantly sick or miserable, maybe not. Only you can know. But I think you at least try changing the food first since that's cheap and low-effort, and has a reasonable chance of showing some improvement.
Low Carb Foods
carbs in % - last number is phosphorus (Kidney disease cats need under 250 phosphorus)
4% - fancy feast CLASSICS chicken feast- 546 - beware of those that are not classics ...
4%- fancy feast chopped grilled feast pate -569
2%- fancy feast cod, sole & shrimp feast pate – 787
4%- fancy feast Ocean Whitefish and tuna pate 823
1% -fancy feast Savory Salmon feast pate – 369
5% -fancy feast Tender beef feast pate -637
5% -fancy feast Tender beef and chicken feast pate -502
5% - fancy feast Tender beef and liver feast pate – 525
4% -fancy feast Tender liver and chicken feast pate -598
3% - fancy feast Turkey & giblets feast pate – 355
5% -fancy feast salmon and shrimp feast -550
4% -fancy feast kitten tender turkey feast -474
5% - fancy feast kitten tender ocean whitefish feast - 689
5% -fancy feast chunky chicken feast -637
7% - fancy feast chunky turkey feast -624
7% -fancy feast chunky chopped grill feast - 454
8% - fancy feast Flaked chicken and tuna feast - 434
0% - fancy feast Flaked fish and shrimp feast - 701
8% - fancy feast Flaked Salmon and whitefish feast - 458
7% - fancy feast Flaked Trout feast-395
8% - Friskies flaked with tuna and egg 415
9% - Friskies Poultry platter – 438
5% - Friskies Special diet Beef and Liver entree 241
5% - Friskies Special diet Turkey and Giblets dinner pate 189
5% - Friskies Special diet Beef and Chicken Entree pate 242
4% - Friskies Special Diet Whitefish dinner 351
7% - Friskies Special Diet with Salmon 228
7% - Friskies Salmon dinner classic pate 499
8% - Friskies Turkey and Giblets dinner 338
8% - Friskies Supreme Supper 416
6% - Friskies Mariner's Catch 393
RobinCot
Member Since 2013
Welcome Jade
I too am away from home for ten hours a day - the good news is that insulin is given every 12 hours. I give shot at 6:30 am, leave house at 7am and am back before the 6:30 pm shot. If you give the am shot before you leave at Noon, say 11:45 am then the pm shot would be before midnight at 11:45 pm.
It seems so overwhelming right now but it gets easy and will become as much a part of your life as owning a cat. There is no reason to put the cat down. There are a lot of success stories here and people who will talk you through every little detail. First thing though is the diet - take away all dry food and get on low carb food. Invest in testing supplies and a good insulin and then there is not need for costly vet visits. It will not cost you $1,000 a month!
I am fostering a 9 year old kitty who was dumped at the shelter because he was sick. He's a healthy sugarcat now and the routine is just another part of my day now, and I've only been doing it since May. It is amazing how much your cat will also become accustomed to the new routine.
We can help you and your cat continue to have a loving and healthy life.
I too am away from home for ten hours a day - the good news is that insulin is given every 12 hours. I give shot at 6:30 am, leave house at 7am and am back before the 6:30 pm shot. If you give the am shot before you leave at Noon, say 11:45 am then the pm shot would be before midnight at 11:45 pm.
It seems so overwhelming right now but it gets easy and will become as much a part of your life as owning a cat. There is no reason to put the cat down. There are a lot of success stories here and people who will talk you through every little detail. First thing though is the diet - take away all dry food and get on low carb food. Invest in testing supplies and a good insulin and then there is not need for costly vet visits. It will not cost you $1,000 a month!
I am fostering a 9 year old kitty who was dumped at the shelter because he was sick. He's a healthy sugarcat now and the routine is just another part of my day now, and I've only been doing it since May. It is amazing how much your cat will also become accustomed to the new routine.
We can help you and your cat continue to have a loving and healthy life.
Welcome to FDMB 
I'm pretty new myself, but have come to rely on the people here more than my vet now.
It deeply saddens me to hear a vet tech be so quick to just dismiss and advise to euthanize.
Food, insulin, and home testing are the 3 major points in regulating your kitty and increasing the possibility of remission.
Going to the vet for curves is honestly just a waste of time and money because the poor kitty is sooo stressed going that his BG numbers will automatically be high and if the vet recommends a dose increase based on that, you could have more issues. Testing at home, where kitty is comfortable and relaxed, gives you much more accurate readings.
The initial cost is not too bad. The Lantus pen savings is great...WalMart is also great for a meter, syringes, lancets, and strips. I use the ReliOn Confirm meter, and actually just purchased strips through the ADW link at the top (Arkray makes the WalMart ReliOn meters, so the strips are interchangeable).
Most of us feed Fancy Feast and Friskees, and use freeze dried chicken and shrimp for treats. Even boiling a chicken breast, letting it cool, and tearing it to treat size is good too.
Scheduling might be a bit challenging at first, but it is doable and there is some flexibility as well.
The more you read here, plus more people chiming in, the more you will understand that as overwhelming as it seems, it's completely doable. I would highly recommend your vet tech friend to come on over here too if nothing else to just see the success stories.
I'm pretty new myself, but have come to rely on the people here more than my vet now.
It deeply saddens me to hear a vet tech be so quick to just dismiss and advise to euthanize.
Food, insulin, and home testing are the 3 major points in regulating your kitty and increasing the possibility of remission.
Going to the vet for curves is honestly just a waste of time and money because the poor kitty is sooo stressed going that his BG numbers will automatically be high and if the vet recommends a dose increase based on that, you could have more issues. Testing at home, where kitty is comfortable and relaxed, gives you much more accurate readings.
The initial cost is not too bad. The Lantus pen savings is great...WalMart is also great for a meter, syringes, lancets, and strips. I use the ReliOn Confirm meter, and actually just purchased strips through the ADW link at the top (Arkray makes the WalMart ReliOn meters, so the strips are interchangeable).
Most of us feed Fancy Feast and Friskees, and use freeze dried chicken and shrimp for treats. Even boiling a chicken breast, letting it cool, and tearing it to treat size is good too.
Scheduling might be a bit challenging at first, but it is doable and there is some flexibility as well.
The more you read here, plus more people chiming in, the more you will understand that as overwhelming as it seems, it's completely doable. I would highly recommend your vet tech friend to come on over here too if nothing else to just see the success stories.
Larry and Kitties
Member Since 2009
Unless the cat has other serious medical problems, there is no reason to say goodbye to the kitty. I adopted my Patches over eight years ago as an already being treated diabetic cat and she is still going strong.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Here is the link to the new member shopping list that Wendy wanted me to post.
Once you get the hang of it, testing only takes a couple of minutes. Yes, it will take longer when you are new and haven't got the routine down and your cat is not co-operating. I can test Wink in less than 3 minutes. That includes getting out the testing supplies, setting them up, warming his ear, poking, test, hold ear to stop bruising, Neosporin dab, putting the testing supplies away and giving Wink and the rest of my gang their treats.
So how much does Boots weigh?
What are his symptoms of diabetes?
Lantus Savings Card program
Once you get the hang of it, testing only takes a couple of minutes. Yes, it will take longer when you are new and haven't got the routine down and your cat is not co-operating. I can test Wink in less than 3 minutes. That includes getting out the testing supplies, setting them up, warming his ear, poking, test, hold ear to stop bruising, Neosporin dab, putting the testing supplies away and giving Wink and the rest of my gang their treats.
To know how much food to feed your cat we need to know his weight. Unregulated diabetic cats may need up to 50% more calories. An average cat needs (15 cals/pound) +70. So a ten pound cat would need 220 calories or about 1 1/4 cans of the 5.5 oz Friskies. That same 10 pound unregulated diabetic cat might need 330 calories so about 2 5.5 oz cans of Friskies a day.
So how much does Boots weigh?
What are his symptoms of diabetes?
Lantus Savings Card program
Julia & Bandit (GA)
Member Since 2009
Welcome! I just wanted to share my experience with Bandit, to help you get some ideas of how to help manage Boots' diabetes working full time. It is definitely do-able! I'm not going to lie, I was super stressed and freaked out the first couple weeks, but once you settle into the routine, treating the diabetes properly is not hard at all, even when working full time. With Lantus or Levemir, cats are far more likely than not to go into remission (meaning no more shots--they are diet controlled) if you feed the right diet and adjust the dose by testing at least 3 times a day. Bandit has been in remission for nearly four years now, and he is healthier today because of the diet change than he was before he had diabetes!
I was also pretty broke when Bandit was diagnosed, but I was fortunate that my vet was up to date with her feline diabetes knowledge and did not recommend unnecessary (and inaccurate) office testing. She gave me a list of low carb, canned foods in different price ranges and had me pick one I could afford. The only major cost was the insulin, but I would definitely sign up for the Lantus savings card and get your insulin that way! http://www.lantus.com/sign-up/offers.aspx. A pack of 5 pens ($25 with the plan) will last you nearly a year, and most cats go into remission by then if you are adjusting the dose according to your home tests. Syringes are about $13 a box at Walmart, and the Walmart Relion meters are great meters to use and not too expensive.
I was also pretty broke when Bandit was diagnosed, but I was fortunate that my vet was up to date with her feline diabetes knowledge and did not recommend unnecessary (and inaccurate) office testing. She gave me a list of low carb, canned foods in different price ranges and had me pick one I could afford. The only major cost was the insulin, but I would definitely sign up for the Lantus savings card and get your insulin that way! http://www.lantus.com/sign-up/offers.aspx. A pack of 5 pens ($25 with the plan) will last you nearly a year, and most cats go into remission by then if you are adjusting the dose according to your home tests. Syringes are about $13 a box at Walmart, and the Walmart Relion meters are great meters to use and not too expensive.
Boots only weighs 11 pounds now...he had pretty severe weightloss over the last 6 months. He used to weigh closer to 17 pounds...he's a big boy with a larger structure. The only thing I noticed that made me know something was wrong was when he started to pee all over my house (COMPLETELY out of the ordinary for my well behaved kitty.) Then I noticed mass amounts of fruit flies around the litter box, and also how I found the spots he was urinating on the carpet. Then I noticed that he was drinking a lot more than usual, his coat started to look terrible, he has a lot of dandruff now, and he has no energy. All he does is lay on the floor, or go drink water. I had noticed a little vomiting recently, but I have two cats and I thought maybe the occasional treats I fed them might be upsetting the other's stomach ( she's had the issue before) and now Im beginning to wonder if it was actually him...when the dr gave me his glucose levels she said he was above 500, so diet alone would do nothing for him.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Diet alone may not be the entire solution, but it's a good start. Many cats can drop 100 or more points with a change in diet.
Why don't your try giving him some low-carb wet food, like the Friskies pate style of the Fancy Feast pate style and see how he does.
He'll probably need to eat at least 2 5.5 ounce cans of the Friskies. It's best if you can split it up into mini-meals. Say, 1/2 a can, 4 times a day.
How about trying that diet change for a week?
Why don't your try giving him some low-carb wet food, like the Friskies pate style of the Fancy Feast pate style and see how he does.
He'll probably need to eat at least 2 5.5 ounce cans of the Friskies. It's best if you can split it up into mini-meals. Say, 1/2 a can, 4 times a day.
How about trying that diet change for a week?
I started that last night actually. I don't want to give up on him...he has been my life companion since I found him when he was a little baby kitten. But I am very intimidated by all the medical stuff that goes along with this, and I'm scared I will screw up and end up doing more damage to him..
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Yes, you did say that. That's good. Does he like the Friskies? Is he eating well?
The testing and giving shots can be scary. Some people don't think they could ever do that to their cat. It becomes easier with time.
We can help you to keep him safe and not "screw up and end up doing more damage to him". The next step would be to learn to home test. It's the absolute best way to keep him safe.
Do you think you would be interested in learning to home test?
pixiesmom
Member Since 2013
Hi Jade... I am not here to offer you the expert advice that I have received from this board over the past two weeks since my Pixie was diagnosed.
But if there is anything I can do is to tell you that you are in the right place and the people on this board are here to help
and walk you through everything every step of the way.
They get back to you quickly and every question is important no matter how insignificant you may think it is.
My Pixie is a nasty little thing when you poke at him, but I am now successfully testing him at home and even doing it WITHOUT a glass of wine by my side.
(That was a MAJOR accomplishment for me)
One thing I am still trying to learn from all of this is that it is not going to be fixed or regulated overnight, maybe not even over a couple weeks.
It takes time and cannot be rushed. (I am still working on that)
Good luck and keep posting....it will help you and your kitty out tremendously!
But if there is anything I can do is to tell you that you are in the right place and the people on this board are here to help
and walk you through everything every step of the way.
They get back to you quickly and every question is important no matter how insignificant you may think it is.
My Pixie is a nasty little thing when you poke at him, but I am now successfully testing him at home and even doing it WITHOUT a glass of wine by my side.
(That was a MAJOR accomplishment for me)
One thing I am still trying to learn from all of this is that it is not going to be fixed or regulated overnight, maybe not even over a couple weeks.
It takes time and cannot be rushed. (I am still working on that)
Good luck and keep posting....it will help you and your kitty out tremendously!
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Yeah! on Boots loving the canned food. That is wonderful. I'm glad it was so easy for you to transition him to the low carb canned food because that can be one of the most difficult parts.
My foster cat Wink was a dry food addict. It took many weeks and intensive effort to get him to switch to the canned. He loves it now, but if there is a scrap of carb loaded food, he will get it. He has jumped up on the dining room table and started to eat my breakfast cereal. All in the time it took me to go pour myself a glass of OJ. ohmygod_smile
There are 2 wonderful articles on home testing. Lots of information there so try not to get overwhelmed with the amount of data. Many people have learned to home test from these articles. Read them over and then come back with questions.
This one is on the how to's of home testing with tips, tricks, videos to watch. How to home test links
This one is on the psychology of home testing or how to get your cat to be more accepting of the process. ear testing psychology
There are also members and other people that help people to learn to home test. Not sure where exactly in Georgia you live. If you let me know, we can try and see if there is a member that would be willing to come to your house to show you how.
You will need some basic supplies to home test. Most of us here use human glucometers instead of the pet specific ones. These human meters are a fraction of the cost of the pet specific meters and the test strips cost so much less also.
1. You can go to your local Wal-Mart and buy a Relion Confirm or Micro glucometer for about $14.98.
2. You need to pick up matching test strips for that meter, $35.88 for 100, $19.88 for 50.
3. You will need lancets for poking the ear. Please get the ones labeled "for alternate site testing". They have a larger pin for pricking. You want 25-28 gauge if you can find them. Box of 100 $3.74
4. Pick up some ketone urine test strips. $6.64 for 50 strips.
5. A couple of cans of Fancy Feast gravy lovers cat food for your hypo toolkit.
6. Some triple antibiotic ointment with pain relief. The gel or ointment, not the cream version. $4.44
7. Some freeze dried pure protein treats for test time. Like Pure Bites if they have them. My Wal-Mart never does so I go to PetSmart or Petco and get the large bag for dogs and break them into smaller pieces.
8. Some chocolate for you. ;-)
9. Some rice or lentils or beans to put in an old sock to help warm the ear.
10. A sharps container. you can use a 2 liter soda bottle, empty laundry soap container. Use your imagination for a container.
11. Some simple sugar like karo syrup of honey or maple syrup. For your hypo tool kit.
Get your cat Boots used to having his ears touched and rubbed. Do that several times a day. A dozen or more if he will let you. Whenever you think of it. That is step one in getting your cat used to home testing.
I've given you a lot of information here. Please come back and ask any questions you may have.
My foster cat Wink was a dry food addict. It took many weeks and intensive effort to get him to switch to the canned. He loves it now, but if there is a scrap of carb loaded food, he will get it. He has jumped up on the dining room table and started to eat my breakfast cereal. All in the time it took me to go pour myself a glass of OJ. ohmygod_smile
There are 2 wonderful articles on home testing. Lots of information there so try not to get overwhelmed with the amount of data. Many people have learned to home test from these articles. Read them over and then come back with questions.
This one is on the how to's of home testing with tips, tricks, videos to watch. How to home test links
This one is on the psychology of home testing or how to get your cat to be more accepting of the process. ear testing psychology
There are also members and other people that help people to learn to home test. Not sure where exactly in Georgia you live. If you let me know, we can try and see if there is a member that would be willing to come to your house to show you how.
You will need some basic supplies to home test. Most of us here use human glucometers instead of the pet specific ones. These human meters are a fraction of the cost of the pet specific meters and the test strips cost so much less also.
1. You can go to your local Wal-Mart and buy a Relion Confirm or Micro glucometer for about $14.98.
2. You need to pick up matching test strips for that meter, $35.88 for 100, $19.88 for 50.
3. You will need lancets for poking the ear. Please get the ones labeled "for alternate site testing". They have a larger pin for pricking. You want 25-28 gauge if you can find them. Box of 100 $3.74
4. Pick up some ketone urine test strips. $6.64 for 50 strips.
5. A couple of cans of Fancy Feast gravy lovers cat food for your hypo toolkit.
6. Some triple antibiotic ointment with pain relief. The gel or ointment, not the cream version. $4.44
7. Some freeze dried pure protein treats for test time. Like Pure Bites if they have them. My Wal-Mart never does so I go to PetSmart or Petco and get the large bag for dogs and break them into smaller pieces.
8. Some chocolate for you. ;-)
9. Some rice or lentils or beans to put in an old sock to help warm the ear.
10. A sharps container. you can use a 2 liter soda bottle, empty laundry soap container. Use your imagination for a container.
11. Some simple sugar like karo syrup of honey or maple syrup. For your hypo tool kit.
Get your cat Boots used to having his ears touched and rubbed. Do that several times a day. A dozen or more if he will let you. Whenever you think of it. That is step one in getting your cat used to home testing.
I've given you a lot of information here. Please come back and ask any questions you may have.
Wendy&Tiggy(GA)
Member Since 2011
thats good on the wet food - just transition it slowly to prevent any diarrhea issues.
Home testing. First get the kit ( see Debs list) and then read this https://docs.google.com/document/d/13c_CPZVKz27fD_6aVbsguadJKvjSrSAkD7flgPPhEag/pub. and give it a go! Some cats bleed easier than others but most people manage to do it within a week or two . Even with feral cats etc.
Wendy
Home testing. First get the kit ( see Debs list) and then read this https://docs.google.com/document/d/13c_CPZVKz27fD_6aVbsguadJKvjSrSAkD7flgPPhEag/pub. and give it a go! Some cats bleed easier than others but most people manage to do it within a week or two . Even with feral cats etc.
Wendy
Boots absolutely hates it when anyone touches his ears or his tail, so I think that will be the most difficult part for me. Also what is a "hypo" kit? I really know almost nothing about diabetes, human or animal. I will have to start researching in what little spare time I have. I am VERY tight on money for the next 2 weeks (we spent pretty much everything we had for the diagnosis) will he be okay if I just use the wet food until I get paid in two weeks? I am so very glad I found this site!
Another question...why is he peeing outside the littler box because of this, does anyone know? The vet didn't address that with me, and it's a BIG prob in my house. Not only because I have a two year old running around, but because I have found nests of fruit flies in the carpet, even after I cleaned the spot, and the litterbox is FULL of them. And if anyone else dealt with this problem, how did you take care of them? I have been cleaning like crazy every day, and using raid (sparingly) when necessary because they are everywhere
Julia & Bandit (GA)
Member Since 2009
If he's handling the wet food ok without any issues, then I would just stick to that. We usually recommend a slow transition to prevent gastrointestinal upset which can happen with some cats, but most cats are just fine with the switch and don't have any issues. I wouldn't reintroduce dry food into the mix after the fact. The goal is to nix the dry food completely.
Diabetic cats urinate more frequently when their blood sugar is unregulated--that's why you're seeing the peeing outside of the box. He probably is having some difficulty holding it until he can make it to the box. His urine is also full of glucose, hence the fruit flies. This will stop once his blood sugar gets under control, but it may take a little time. In the meantime, how many litter boxes do you have? I would recommend putting a few extra around your house so that he has a better chance of making it to the box. If he's showing signs of diabetic neuropathy (when a cat has trouble walking because of uncontrolled diabetes), he also may be having a bit of difficulty getting in and out of the box. A litter pan like this one helps a great deal in that case.
Diabetic cats urinate more frequently when their blood sugar is unregulated--that's why you're seeing the peeing outside of the box. He probably is having some difficulty holding it until he can make it to the box. His urine is also full of glucose, hence the fruit flies. This will stop once his blood sugar gets under control, but it may take a little time. In the meantime, how many litter boxes do you have? I would recommend putting a few extra around your house so that he has a better chance of making it to the box. If he's showing signs of diabetic neuropathy (when a cat has trouble walking because of uncontrolled diabetes), he also may be having a bit of difficulty getting in and out of the box. A litter pan like this one helps a great deal in that case.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
A hypo kit is some high carb (HC) food, a simple sugar, and other goodies to raise the BG (blood glucose) levels of your cat up, in cases where he has gone too low. Not something you need to be concerned with since your cat Boots is not yet on insulin.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY - YOUR HYPO KIT
Put together NOW the following items and put in an easily accessible place!
•Phone number of your vet
•Phone number, address and map/directions to your nearest emergency vet (or phone number of the cab company and some cash/credit card)
•Karo syrup, honey or corn syrup
•High carb canned food with gravy – 2-3 cans
•Some favourite treats
•Spare pack of 25 blood glucose strips
•Coffee for you
Please check your messages for a PM from me. Top of board, upper left, click on new messages.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY - YOUR HYPO KIT
Put together NOW the following items and put in an easily accessible place!
•Phone number of your vet
•Phone number, address and map/directions to your nearest emergency vet (or phone number of the cab company and some cash/credit card)
•Karo syrup, honey or corn syrup
•High carb canned food with gravy – 2-3 cans
•Some favourite treats
•Spare pack of 25 blood glucose strips
•Coffee for you
Please check your messages for a PM from me. Top of board, upper left, click on new messages.
Wendy&Tiggy(GA)
Member Since 2011
Diet is fine for now but you should pick up some urine ketone test strips to use meantime. They are only like $6 from walmart . Diabetic ketoacidosis is a very serious condition and expensive to treat and is more likely to occur with an unregulated cat.
Try here to see if you can get a free meter and kit to start out : http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/viewforum.php?f=15
You can test his paw pads if he is ok with his feet being touched?
Wendy
Try here to see if you can get a free meter and kit to start out : http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/viewforum.php?f=15
You can test his paw pads if he is ok with his feet being touched?
Wendy
You all have beautiful cat's, by the way I'd upload a pic of my Boots, bit I'm not sure how. He's a black and brown tabby with white socks in front, and white boots on his hind legs, thus the name. He's had a prettier coat in the recent past, and hopefully I can get him feeling better and getting it healthy looking again.
I'd upload a pic of my Boots, bit I'm not sure how. He's a black and brown tabby with white socks in front, and white boots on his hind legs, thus the name. He's had a prettier coat in the recent past, and hopefully I can get him feeling better and getting it healthy looking again.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Some supplies are on their way to Jade.
The savings card program is here: lantus savings card program You sign up as if you were the guardian for a child. You will need to find a pharmacy that will sell the pens individually. Some people have said their local Target will do this. Some people have had luck with Wal-Mart being willing to sell a single pen while other people have not had luck. You may need to call around.
Your prescription from the vet needs to say for the Lantus Solostar pen, not the 10mL vial.
I don't know if your state requires a prescription for insulin syringes. You can use the Relion 3/10 cc, 30 gauge, 5/16" needle with half unit markings on the syringe barrel. You want to use syringes, not the pen needle tips that come with the solostar pens.
DCIN is a non-profit that can sometimes help with financially strapped diabetic cat owners. You may want to contact them for financial assistance. Budgets are tight everywhere. Don't know if they will be able to help.
The savings card program is here: lantus savings card program You sign up as if you were the guardian for a child. You will need to find a pharmacy that will sell the pens individually. Some people have said their local Target will do this. Some people have had luck with Wal-Mart being willing to sell a single pen while other people have not had luck. You may need to call around.
Your prescription from the vet needs to say for the Lantus Solostar pen, not the 10mL vial.
I don't know if your state requires a prescription for insulin syringes. You can use the Relion 3/10 cc, 30 gauge, 5/16" needle with half unit markings on the syringe barrel. You want to use syringes, not the pen needle tips that come with the solostar pens.
DCIN is a non-profit that can sometimes help with financially strapped diabetic cat owners. You may want to contact them for financial assistance. Budgets are tight everywhere. Don't know if they will be able to help.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Click on the underlined blue link for Urine testing tips For when those ketone testing strips arrive.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
See this post over in the Tech Support forum for how to get an avatar small enough and link to your profile.
http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=92549 The 3rd post there, by me, has step by step directions on how to do this.
http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=92549 The 3rd post there, by me, has step by step directions on how to do this.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
What insulin did your vet prescribe? I don't think you ever told us.
How is the prescription written?
You should be able to go back to the vet and request the prescription be rewritten for the Lantus Solostar pen.
Tell your vet, that is what you want to use.
How is the prescription written?
You should be able to go back to the vet and request the prescription be rewritten for the Lantus Solostar pen.
Tell your vet, that is what you want to use.
BJM
Member Since 2010
Yes Glargine is Lantus.
The 10 mL, 1000 unit bottle may lose effectiveness before you use all of it; the 3 mL 300 unit pens often can be used completely, hence the rational for getting the pens - no waste.
You use a U-100 insyulin syringe to withdraw the insulin from the pens just like you use them to withdraw from a vial. You do not need the special needles for the pens.
The 10 mL, 1000 unit bottle may lose effectiveness before you use all of it; the 3 mL 300 unit pens often can be used completely, hence the rational for getting the pens - no waste.
You use a U-100 insyulin syringe to withdraw the insulin from the pens just like you use them to withdraw from a vial. You do not need the special needles for the pens.
Deb & Wink
Member Since 2013
Now you have a prescription for the Lantus (glargine) but have not filled it yet, correct?
I would suggest calling the vets office and having them rewrite the prescription for the Lantus Solostar pens. Tell them it's a cost issue and the pens are less expensive.
Do you have a prescription for the insulin syringes too? Not sure if that is required in Georgia or not.
I would suggest calling the vets office and having them rewrite the prescription for the Lantus Solostar pens. Tell them it's a cost issue and the pens are less expensive.
Do you have a prescription for the insulin syringes too? Not sure if that is required in Georgia or not.
No I have not filled it as of yet. She did not give me a prescription for syringes. I am so confused my all the numbers and technical terms...which is why Im so worried I wont be any good at this. I just don't know anything about the disease, or all the ml/cc/U stuff I see everywhere..also what is the hyp kit used for? What will my cat do that will necessitate it's use? Will he die if Im not home to use it when he needs it?
BJM
Member Since 2010
Depending on the state you are in, you may not need a prescription for syringes; you don't in Ohio.
U-100 means there are 100 units of insulin in 1 milliliter of fluid.
Lantus is a U-100 insulin.
Lantus comes in vials of 10 milliliters (1,000 units) and pens of 3 milliliters (300 units).
A dose of 1 unit twice a day would finish a vial in 500 days and a pen in 150 days.
A dose of 2 units twice a day would finish a vial in 250 days and a pen in 75 days.
U-100 means there are 100 units of insulin in 1 milliliter of fluid.
Lantus is a U-100 insulin.
Lantus comes in vials of 10 milliliters (1,000 units) and pens of 3 milliliters (300 units).
A dose of 1 unit twice a day would finish a vial in 500 days and a pen in 150 days.
A dose of 2 units twice a day would finish a vial in 250 days and a pen in 75 days.
Wendy&Tiggy(GA)
Member Since 2011
Shelf life is a month. Fridge life is up to six months (not in the door though). Pens are better because they last even longer since you only "open" one at a time and you dont need to worry about dropping them ( it happens)
Wendy
Wendy
Just-As-Appy
Member Since 2010
If you keep the vial in the fridge and treat it gently (no shaking or rolling - or dropping!), and don't inject air into the insulin, it will last considerably longer than a month. However, at 2 units a day it is likely that you will not use it up before it begins to lose potency. I used to sell a pen to a nearby regular diabetic (I had a high dose cat so used it up quickly) - I think she needed 3 until her cat went into remission. Not sure if there is a high dose cat near you and you might be able to make a similar arrangement. Many of them use Levemir, but it is also a good long acting insulin and would serve your needs as well.
So is the general opinion here that the pens would be better than the vial he was prescribed? I want this to be as foolproof as possible, and to waste as little as possible, because Im going to have to make some miracles happen to afford 200 a month for insulin. But I'm going to do it because my boy is worth it.
Wendy&Tiggy(GA)
Member Since 2011
The pen will last you up to six months. So thats $200 for 6 months.
- Status