Hi Sasha's mom and welcome!
I just wanted to add my comment on switching from one type of insulin to another.
I started Shadoe of Caninsulin at the direction of my vet, but we got up to 4.5u or something and it was just not working. Shadoe was still getting bad numbers and feeling horrible.
Thank goodness I found this site!
I was told of Lantus which may work much better and so off I went to the vet who agreed it would be OK to switch. She said it was a once a day type, so that told me right there that my vet was not that familiar with Lantus and using it for cats who have a metabolism much different from humans.
When I switched, I started on Lantus at 1u as my vet had suggested and right away, I saw an improvement in Shadoe! I could not believe it! How could I switch from one type to another, and give her way less, and she became way better? How could this be I thought!
Well, it's true. You can't compare apples and oranges, or different types of insulin because they are all different. Some are fast acting and some are slower. And that's why I think others may be concerned about the start of Lantus at such a higher dose.
Now, about the testing. Man, it's frustrating; for you and for Sasha, but just in the beginning. Seriously, once you get the hang of it, and the spots, you will both settle in nicely to the testing. It really will become a bonding time; I know it has with me and Shadoe.
Shadoe jumps right up into the test chair when it is time; she knows that we will do our poke and then she gets a shot that makes her feel very very much better.
Believe me when I say that the day will come quickly when you realize that Sasha is the brighter one when it comes to the routine to treat her!
Try to sit with Sasha and pat her a bit at the testing time; it will help to calm both of you.
I look on the pre shot tests as a check on her temperature. If her temperature was normal, I would not give her meds to lower her temperature, but if it was a high number, I would give her meds. I know it does not seem to be as critical when the BG numbers are all high, but better safe than sorry and know for sure.
The group here is AMAZING! I can't be more serious when I say that I don't know what I would do without the people here, on this board. Shadoe is a brand new cat because of their help and suggestions and guidance. I will never be able to thank them enough. Ever.