New to Forum and Feline Diabetes

Status
Not open for further replies.
Sarah and Simba

Sarah and Simba

Active Member
Hi,

Wanted to introduce myself, and my cat: Simba.

He's 14 yrs and has recently been having health issues. On my most recent trip to the vet, I pointed out that he's developed what she diagnosed as 'crusty paw'. Concerned, we did an in-house glucose test.

The test was so high, the reader wouldn't even register. Got the fructose test back today, and he's at 580.

He was put on prednisone about 3 weeks ago and he'd started drinking more water. The vet said this was normal and associated with prednisone. Now she's not so sure.

The vet will consult with the technicians to determine if the prednisone is responsible for his high levels, but based on his other symptoms: Lethargy, depression & gradual weight loss, I'm afraid I'm facing diabetes.

I'm feeling sad and overwhelmed. I've read some of the very helpful articles provided by this forum and though they're filled with much needed helpful information and advice, what I need most now is a hug!

Looking forward to exploring the FDMB forum,
Sarah.
 
Welcome Sarah and Simba! Here are a few cyber hugs :YMHUG: :YMHUG: :YMHUG:

Do lots of reading. Be sure to ask questions. Everyone who responds to you is paying it forward for help they received as a newbie. This is a very treatable disease and we would love to help you help Simba.
 
Sounds like Simba may be a steroid induced diabetic and if so, hometesting is going to be a lifesaver. Now is the time to buy a meter, etc. and start testing Simba. Diabetes is very treatable in cats.

bighugs.jpg
 
Do you know what insulin he will be started on? Do you have a meter to start hometesting? Please, don't let the vet tell you that dose is based on weight because it isn't. Also, don't let the vet start him on more than 1 unit of insulin and come back here and post insulin type.
 
Are you planning to test at home, Sara? We figure we would test our 2 legged children if they had diabetes, so we test our 4 legged ones too. It really isn't hard and it is a life saver: Video for hometesting

Have you seen the Lantus support group? (Glargine is another name for Lantus) Lantus forum You may want to read the stickies at the top. They will give you information on how to buy the insulin for the least amount of money, what needles to get and how to dose and monitor.

There is also a coupon to help: viewtopic.php?f=15&t=36964

We would rather see you start at .5 or 1 unit a day. Our idea is to start low and go slow. You can always add more insulin to the cat as needed; you can't take it out once it is shot!
 
Yes, planning to test at home. Have to pick up the glucometre tomorrow.
I'm scrambling to get work shifts covered, and I have a nonexistant support system.
In terms of dosage, my vet was planning on 1 unit 2x day but after consulting with the lab that ran Simba's tests, decided on 2 units
Thanks so much for the links, I'll check them just as soon as I can calm down. Much appreciated.
 
Early on in our sugar dance, someone told me to remember to breathe. It does help!

If you home test, you can keep him safe. You'll know what his numbers are and how the insulin is working. We can be your support system even though we are on the net. Someone will be here when you need help and comfort.
 
Hi Sarah, I just wanted to stop by and welcome you and Simba (beautiful boy!) to FDMB!
To quote MamaOfMuse: "The place you never wanted to be but are so glad you found!"

The beauty of FMDB is that there is always someone online 24/7 and there's a variety of experiences which provides a shared pool of knowledge to draw from. Can't beat that for a support system. :smile:
 
Just wanted to say hello. My cat Max was diagnosed in January and I was right where you are now. I'm sure you're already figuring out that you've come to the best place for help with your diabetic cat. I knew next to nothing at first and was overwhelmed and stressed. This forum and following the great advice/protocol really helped me turn Max's health around. I have found that the combined knowledge from the forum can't be beat. Before I found FDMB, Max wasn't making much progress with treatment, but, once I found and followed the advice here, he's a new kitty (diet change and home testing). Best wishes to you and Simba!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top