Newly diagnosed diabetes, senvelgo, fluids, UTI -

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Megankitty

Megankitty

Member
Hi. I know there are tons of threads and I do already but I’m overwhelmed already especially cuz we are trying senvelgo, so I’m concerned about how that will work and hoping. She doesn’t get keto acidosis. Monitoring with test strips and vet visits as recommended. But still. To complicate matters she has had a UTI which, has been treated with clavamox and amoxicillin and still just won’t subside. Specific gravity and nitrites are showing on these strips which didn’t really pop even before antibiotic treatment. My vet sent home some Sub Q fluids which I started last night along with the senvelgo. She is very sleepy today. Appetite is good. Not drinking as much water but also she’s likely quite hydrated.
im shocked at how much diabetic diet cat dood costs have increased ( had a diabetic kitty 25 years ago, and a kidney one too Areound that time so I’m familiar with needles injections sub Q fluids etc. so I’m good with administration. Back then I’d give one unit of insulin twice a day and they never required glucose monitoring. Insulin was 15 bucks a bottle … so the science and costs have changed. I looked at the commercial cat food that is onThe list you post here to see which foods nutrition content was high protein and lowest carbs. Got that until I could get the scrip food for a week or so I want to leave out kibble throughout the day for her ( just as extra, I’ve always fed a mix of wet and dry with at least 1/4 cup of water mixed in, in recent years. ) but I have her brother too so if he’s grazing the 40 dollar 3 lb bag of diabetic dry food I’ll be broker than I am. Plus I’d like to leave out PLENTY so he doesn’t eat it all and there is always plenty for her ( no matter how much he eats. I’d like to add that the dry kibble is supplemental for weight gain - I am aware of moisture issues with dry food which is why I’ve always added so much water) also Joe and Megan, siblings from a litter of three feral kittens who we bottle fed from three weeks, now about 11)
It’s so much and I’m trying g to do research and I know there’s a ton of info here but I just really am overwhelmed and looking for support. My mom passed away after being in hospice which she went into this time last year and I was out of work (union strikes) for over a year… Our beloved dog Zoe who literally raise the kittens like she was their mom passed away two years ago (hermangiosarcoma)and Megan and Joe’s sister Sweetie died within n months of Zoe - Zoe was the heart and soul of this house and took care of all of us and raised the kittens and my kids - she was 12. Sweetie was only 9. I just can’t take any more loss and I’ve been so overwhelmed mitigating financial stuff vi of my job loss, raising my kids (late teens) and my moms hospice care and death I’ve barely been keeping my self succumbing to completely falling apart into u reparable despair. Sorry didn’t mean to get so emotional. It just came out reflecting on Megan’s diagnosis and prognosis. My son is particularly attached to her and would be derailed after overcoming his own mental health challenges since Covid … I’m sorry if this is TMI. Thank you if you’ve read this far. I guess I’m just wondering about anyone with experience with senvelvo, monitoring with it, how insulin’s treatment looks and works these days, any options for food that aren’t extortion especially since I have a second kitty who will eat her food if I leave extra out… so any options that you may know of that are equal to the prescription diet in terms of dietary content, which are tried and true for you as the list is a bit overwhelming I liked at here but tris to highlight some options, but I know some of you have already tried and done trade watch so trying g to piggyback on that. There is a part of me that thru is the prescription diets are taking advantage of owners wot sick animals and commercial foods exist with similar nutrition content. It wasn’t that much different cost wise 25 years ago - I can’t believe it’s been that long since my sweet Buggs was cared for by me with her diabetes. Back then the food was so devoid of fiber and never discussed by my vet that she was impacted with her poo which was an additional issue of discomfort for her and no one really talked about moisture co tent back then that I trembler with dry food. I was about 21 at the time but still would have asked and tried to educate myself but then again we also didn’t have chat support or google back then…..
again thank you if you are still reading and not annoyed by all I’m sharing.
 
Hi there,

It is overwhelming at first, your feelings are completely valid, but it is great that you found this forum. There are incredibly knowledgeable people here that will help you and support you. Things will get easier.

Others are going to comment about getting your signature setup. That is how we can see more information about your situation. So I will defer to them, but I just wanted to offer some words of encouragement in the meantime. Hang in there!
 
@Megankitty
Can you set up your signature
Your signature should be in gray letters, do you see mine at the end of my post
This is where you can set up what we call your signature, it's at the end of everyone's post in gray letters. Just tap on your name up top then tap on signature and add this information. You will link it to your spreadsheet

  • Add info we need to help you:
    • Caregiver & kitty's name
    • DX: Date
    • Name of Insulin (do not include dose or frequency)
    • Name of your meter
    • Diet: "LC wet" or "dry food" or "combo"
    • Dosing: TR or SLGS or Custom (if applicable)
    • DKA or other recent health issue (if applicable)
    • Bexacat or Senvelgo (if applicable) and dates
    • Acro, IAA, or Cushings (if applicable)
    • Spreadsheet link. Please put the signature link on the bottom line of your signature information, on its own, so it is easy to find.
    • Please do not put any information about your location in the signature for security reasons. If you wish to add your country location, please add it to your profile.
Be sure to click the 'Save Changes' button at the bottom. If you need help urgently it is important we know these things at a glance. We don’t want to waste valuable time finding out information.
 
Megankitty said:
Hi. I know there are tons of threads and I do already but I’m overwhelmed already especially cuz we are trying senvelgo, so I’m concerned about how that will work and hoping. She doesn’t get keto acidosis. Monitoring with test strips and vet visits as recommended. But still. To complicate matters she has had a UTI which, has been treated with clavamox and amoxicillin and still just won’t subside. Specific gravity and nitrites are showing on these strips which didn’t really pop even before antibiotic treatment. My vet sent home some Sub Q fluids which I started last night along with the senvelgo. She is very sleepy today. Appetite is good. Not drinking as much water but also she’s likely quite hydrated.
im shocked at how much diabetic diet cat dood costs have increased ( had a diabetic kitty 25 years ago, and a kidney one too Areound that time so I’m familiar with needles injections sub Q fluids etc. so I’m good with administration. Back then I’d give one unit of insulin twice a day and they never required glucose monitoring. Insulin was 15 bucks a bottle … so the science and costs have changed. I looked at the commercial cat food that is onThe list you post here to see which foods nutrition content was high protein and lowest carbs. Got that until I could get the scrip food for a week or so I want to leave out kibble throughout the day for her ( just as extra, I’ve always fed a mix of wet and dry with at least 1/4 cup of water mixed in, in recent years. ) but I have her brother too so if he’s grazing the 40 dollar 3 lb bag of diabetic dry food I’ll be broker than I am. Plus I’d like to leave out PLENTY so he doesn’t eat it all and there is always plenty for her ( no matter how much he eats. I’d like to add that the dry kibble is supplemental for weight gain - I am aware of moisture issues with dry food which is why I’ve always added so much water) also Joe and Megan, siblings from a litter of three feral kittens who we bottle fed from three weeks, now about 11)
It’s so much and I’m trying g to do research and I know there’s a ton of info here but I just really am overwhelmed and looking for support. My mom passed away after being in hospice which she went into this time last year and I was out of work (union strikes) for over a year… Our beloved dog Zoe who literally raise the kittens like she was their mom passed away two years ago (hermangiosarcoma)and Megan and Joe’s sister Sweetie died within n months of Zoe - Zoe was the heart and soul of this house and took care of all of us and raised the kittens and my kids - she was 12. Sweetie was only 9. I just can’t take any more loss and I’ve been so overwhelmed mitigating financial stuff vi of my job loss, raising my kids (late teens) and my moms hospice care and death I’ve barely been keeping my self succumbing to completely falling apart into u reparable despair. Sorry didn’t mean to get so emotional. It just came out reflecting on Megan’s diagnosis and prognosis. My son is particularly attached to her and would be derailed after overcoming his own mental health challenges since Covid … I’m sorry if this is TMI. Thank you if you’ve read this far. I guess I’m just wondering about anyone with experience with senvelvo, monitoring with it, how insulin’s treatment looks and works these days, any options for food that aren’t extortion especially since I have a second kitty who will eat her food if I leave extra out… so any options that you may know of that are equal to the prescription diet in terms of dietary content, which are tried and true for you as the list is a bit overwhelming I liked at here but tris to highlight some options, but I know some of you have already tried and done trade watch so trying g to piggyback on that. There is a part of me that thru is the prescription diets are taking advantage of owners wot sick animals and commercial foods exist with similar nutrition content. It wasn’t that much different cost wise 25 years ago - I can’t believe it’s been that long since my sweet Buggs was cared for by me with her diabetes. Back then the food was so devoid of fiber and never discussed by my vet that she was impacted with her poo which was an additional issue of discomfort for her and no one really talked about moisture co tent back then that I trembler with dry food. I was about 21 at the time but still would have asked and tried to educate myself but then again we also didn’t have chat support or google back then…..
again thank you if you are still reading and not annoyed by all I’m sharing.
Click to expand...
@Bron and Sheba (GA)
@Wendy&Neko
 
Hi and welcome to you and Megan. I'm sorry for all your losses over the last couple of years.
It is overwhelming in the beginning and we are here To help you get sorted.

The first thing I would say is, if you are giving oral treatment for the diabetes, you definitely need to be testing most days for ketones in the urine., which can happen when you use senvelgo. You will need to get a bottle of ketostix from a pharmacy, collect a urine sample form Megan and test the urine as per the instructions on the bottle.

*****I am going to give you information about these oral drugs...please read it. Having a recurrent UTI precludes the use of these drugs, so I would go back to the vet and show him the information I am giving you. He should know this already. If Megan was my cat, I would not use the oral medication but use an insulin such as lantus .
NEW ORAL TREATMENTS...link here.

As far as food goes, you can feed a low carb canned food from the supermarket. Fancy Feast pates are low carb. And you can also get low carb dry food. I will tag @Diane Tyler's Mom GA as she can give you all the information about the food. There is no need to feed expensive prescription food as all.
 
Diane Tyler's Mom GA said:
@Megankitty
Can you set up your signature
Your signature should be in gray letters, do you see mine at the end of my post
This is where you can set up what we call your signature, it's at the end of everyone's post in gray letters. Just tap on your name up top then tap on signature and add this information. You will link it to your spreadsheet

  • Add info we need to help you:
    • Caregiver & kitty's name
    • DX: Date
    • Name of Insulin (do not include dose or frequency)
    • Name of your meter
    • Diet: "LC wet" or "dry food" or "combo"
    • Dosing: TR or SLGS or Custom (if applicable)
    • DKA or other recent health issue (if applicable)
    • Bexacat or Senvelgo (if applicable) and dates
    • Acro, IAA, or Cushings (if applicable)
    • Spreadsheet link. Please put the signature link on the bottom line of your signature information, on its own, so it is easy to find.
    • Please do not put any information about your location in the signature for security reasons. If you wish to add your country location, please add it to your profile.
Be sure to click the 'Save Changes' button at the bottom. If you need help urgently it is important we know these things at a glance. We don’t want to waste valuable time finding out information.
Click to expand...
I’m so confused as to where and how to do this signature thing. Senvelgo. Diabetes. Dr Kasia. 7lb dose of senvelgo. Other health issue UTI. Female calico 11 years old. I hope for now that will allow people to help me. If there is a “link” for the signature thing I’d love to have that. Gotta finish taking her needle out for fluids so can’t figure out technical stuff now. Thanks for any help. Much appreciated.
 
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Bron and Sheba (GA) said:
Hi and welcome to you and Megan. I'm sorry for all your losses over the last couple of years.
It is overwhelming in the beginning and we are here To help you get sorted.

The first thing I would say is, if you are giving oral treatment for the diabetes, you definitely need to be testing most days for ketones in the urine., which can happen when you use senvelgo. You will need to get a bottle of ketostix from a pharmacy, collect a urine sample form Megan and test the urine as per the instructions on the bottle.

*****I am going to give you information about these oral drugs...please read it. Having a recurrent UTI precludes the use of these drugs, so I would go back to the vet and show him the information I am giving you. He should know this already. If Megan was my cat, I would not use the oral medication but use an insulin such as lantus .
NEW ORAL TREATMENTS...link here.

As far as food goes, you can feed a low carb canned food from the supermarket. Fancy Feast pates are low carb. And you can also get low carb dry food. I will tag @Diane Tyler's Mom GA as she can give you all the information about the food. There is no need to feed expensive prescription food as all.
Click to expand...

yea the vet went over all the health issues with me and such as you are describing and has been very thorough and is incredibly professional and has helped many of our animals return to good health. I appreciate the knowledge you shared as many people may be unaware. I’m treating her with fluids as well so the hydration is good.
 
Tim & Pookey said:
Hi there,

It is overwhelming at first, your feelings are completely valid, but it is great that you found this forum. There are incredibly knowledgeable people here that will help you and support you. Things will get easier.

Others are going to comment about getting your signature setup. That is how we can see more information about your situation. So I will defer to them, but I just wanted to offer some words of encouragement in the meantime. Hang in there!
Click to expand...
Thank you. It means a lot that you just checked in with support.
 
Bron and Sheba (GA) said:
Hi and welcome to you and Megan. I'm sorry for all your losses over the last couple of years.
It is overwhelming in the beginning and we are here To help you get sorted.

The first thing I would say is, if you are giving oral treatment for the diabetes, you definitely need to be testing most days for ketones in the urine., which can happen when you use senvelgo. You will need to get a bottle of ketostix from a pharmacy, collect a urine sample form Megan and test the urine as per the instructions on the bottle.

*****I am going to give you information about these oral drugs...please read it. Having a recurrent UTI precludes the use of these drugs, so I would go back to the vet and show him the information I am giving you. He should know this already. If Megan was my cat, I would not use the oral medication but use an insulin such as lantus .
NEW ORAL TREATMENTS...link here.

As far as food goes, you can feed a low carb canned food from the supermarket. Fancy Feast pates are low carb. And you can also get low carb dry food. I will tag @Diane Tyler's Mom GA as she can give you all the information about the food. There is no need to feed expensive prescription food as all.
Click to expand...
Thank you for the food info as well. I did read about the fancy feast pate and Sheba as well. Getting the dry diabetic kibble to mix with the wet food and water. I wish the senvelgo had a more thick quality and some
Sort of attempt at flavor. It’s hard to administer as she hats it and has the consistency of water so it doesn’t “stick” like say her antibiotic does stick in her mouth and she licks it off. It’s a small amount but I wish I could have it in a pill for a pill pocket or something. Anyhow we have to let enough time go by to see if it’s effective and doesn’t have bad side effects first. So I’m getting a hit ahead of myself. We go back Tuesday for the Urin test and the first 2-3 day follow up tests. As senvelgo can’t be administered once a cat has started insulin, I consisted the caution needed and sat on it for a bit. wanted to try it at least with the careful monitoring to see if it worked and would be ok for her. I work very far away three days a week and am worried about potential low blood sugar episodes…. Just hoping it does and if not will do insulin. Whatever it takes. Thank for your help and advise. Any more advise regarding how insulin works these days and glucose monitoring which wasn’t a thing 25 years ago, would be welcome.
 
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Megankitty said:
yea the vet went over all the health issues with me and such as you are describing and has been very thorough and is incredibly professional and has helped many of our animals return to good health. I appreciate the knowledge you shared as many people may be unaware. I’m treating her with fluids as well so the hydration is good.
Click to expand...
Oh and yes as I mentioned in my orig post I’m testing g daily for her urine keto and also glucose and nitrites and many other things with the urine test kit. Thanks for the advice. I’ll ask about the pharmacy thing you mentioned above.
 
Megankitty said:
Getting the dry diabetic kibble to mix with the water.
Click to expand...
What dry “diabetic” kibble ate you getting?

None of the prescription “diabetic” food has anything in it that’s prescription or particularly beneficial for diabetic cats. In fact, the manufacturers lost a class-action lawsuit to that end.
The dry foods are generally too high carb for a diabetic (canned prescription foods generally a bit better but still not ideal and many cats don’t like them). It’s hard to comprehend, I know. But you’ll be better off skipping the expensive prescription food. And it’ll help your budget too.

My first diabetic cat was nearly 21 years ago so I understand your surprise. Stick around here and we’ll help you sort it all out.
 
JL and Chip said:
What dry “diabetic” kibble ate you getting?

None of the prescription “diabetic” food has anything in it that’s prescription or particularly beneficial for diabetic cats. In fact, the manufacturers lost a class-action lawsuit to that end.
The dry foods are generally too high carb for a diabetic (canned prescription foods generally a bit better but still not ideal and many cats don’t like them). It’s hard to comprehend, I know. But you’ll be better off skipping the expensive prescription food. And it’ll help your budget too.

My first diabetic cat was nearly 21 years ago so I understand your surprise. Stick around here and we’ll help you sort it all out.
Click to expand...


I got the royal canin I think it’s called. Thank you for commenting on my suspicion about the food . I also got something else before that. A high protein grain free purine pro plan I think? I’m in bed and I have to check and will get back to you. I want to leave it out for her to becc bc able to graze all day. She needs to gain weight. Thank you so much.
 
Diane Tyler's Mom GA said:
@Megankitty
Can you set up your signature
Your signature should be in gray letters, do you see mine at the end of my post
This is where you can set up what we call your signature, it's at the end of everyone's post in gray letters. Just tap on your name up top then tap on signature and add this information. You will link it to your spreadsheet

  • Add info we need to help you:
    • Caregiver & kitty's name
    • DX: Date
    • Name of Insulin (do not include dose or frequency)
    • Name of your meter
    • Diet: "LC wet" or "dry food" or "combo"
    • Dosing: TR or SLGS or Custom (if applicable)
    • DKA or other recent health issue (if applicable)
    • Bexacat or Senvelgo (if applicable) and dates
    • Acro, IAA, or Cushings (if applicable)
    • Spreadsheet link. Please put the signature link on the bottom line of your signature information, on its own, so it is easy to find.
    • Please do not put any information about your location in the signature for security reasons. If you wish to add your country location, please add it to your profile.
Be sure to click the 'Save Changes' button at the bottom. If you need help urgently it is important we know these things at a glance. We don’t want to waste valuable time finding out information.
Click to expand...
I think I figured out the signature? I tried anyhow. Let me know if it works and you see it. Sorry I’m a bit tech overwhelmed at the moment.
 
Megankitty said:
I think I figured out the signature? I tried anyhow. Let me know if it works and you see it. Sorry I’m a bit tech overwhelmed at the moment.
Click to expand...
Yep, I can see the signature. :)

A low-carb canned food is generally considered a better choice for diabetics these days. If you have a kibble-addicted cat or need to use dry food, the two low-carb options on the market (in the U.S.) are Dr. Elsey’s Clean Protein and Young Again Zero.

Your signature mentions a skin allergy… is there any chance it’s treated with steroids? (Steroids can trigger diabetes, hence the question)
 
Hello Heather. You certainly have been through a lot of difficulties and major losses. I am so sorry. My heart went out to you while reading through your first post.
You are getting good advice here. My number one concern is that the Senvelgo is contraindicated (should not be used) in a cat with recurrent UTI. You indicated that she’s had UTI and it’s been treated with two different antibiotics. I have copied the specific bullet point from the information on Bexacat/Senvelgo that is applicable to Megan. I am very concerned.
  • Laboratory values or physical assessment that indicates the presence of ketones, DKA, kidney or liver disease, or recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) would preclude the use of either of these medications.
 
Bron and Sheba (GA) said:
I will tag @Diane Tyler's Mom GA as she can give you all the information about the food. There is no need to feed expensive prescription food as all.
Click to expand...
If you must feed dry food these are about 5 or 6% carbs

About the kibble
Here are some low carb dry foods ,they are about 5 or 6% carbs
None of them are cheap
You need to order them online they are not cheap
Dr Elseys you can buy on chewey site
https://www.chewy.com/dr-elseys-cleanprotein-chicken/dp/146269?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12791446238&utm_content=Dr. Elsey's&utm_term=&show-search=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0PvU2Zj79wIVRIdbCh3JawEkEAQYASABEgIInfD_BwE

Young again on their web site
https://www.youngagainpetfood.com
Take a look at the young again zero or the zero mature. Some members have said the Young Again caused stinky poops

In the past I have used The Dr Elseys and had no problem

Dr Elsey's also at Walmart
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Dr-Elsey...ViI3ICh0suwO_EAQYAiABEgJrOPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Dr Elsey's Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCJHDPR/ref=twister_B09GHFJY65?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

the Dr Elsey's comes in different size bags
None of these can be bought in stores

Also
Wysong Epigen 90

If you call they will send you samples
Phone: 877-311-2287… Dr Elsey's

PHONE:
800.311.6646. Young Again

1-800-748-0188 •Wysong Epigen 90
 
Hi Heather
I understand with everything going on you may think “try this now bc once on insulin I’ve lost the chance”. I get that. I tried Bexacat with my boy because I knew his tumor would make insulin ineffective for the most part. But as a physician i carefully read the insert, read the studies, and was very very worried every day he was on it. I tested his blood for ketones religiously (pricey but finds ketones earlier than urine tests). I obsessed over possible UTIs. I spent a lot on blood tests to monitor his kidney, liver and pancreas and we stopped it when he developed pancreatitis—which can kill. I don’t 100% blame Bexacat because pancreatitis is common in diabetics (and diabetes is common with pancreatitis). But I don’t absolve it either.

please read the insert (I’ll try to attach a link). Many of the serious side effects involved the urinary system, from kidney failure to loss of bladder control to peeing inappropriately. Please notice the number of deaths. I’m not telling you not to use it but I am imploring you to choose when fully informed.

see these links. The one just happened and I’m sure she will be willing to discuss her thoughts. It’s ok if you still stick with senvelgo and we’re here to support you but we want you to be fully informed. I’m happy to answer any questions about how SGLT2 drugs work (we have them for humans also) but I’m not a vet. Feel free to ask.

recent members
https://felinediabetes.com/FDMB/thr...cat-in-dka-refusing-food.292644/#post-3196986


https://felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/senvelgo-lucys-downfall.295714/#post-3223385
 
One last thought about insulin and working. I worked with a previous diabetic cat (more on that in a bit). Many here are still working and one lady is working three jobs —it’s not easy and my hat is off to those who do it but insulin is doable.

I’m going to get crucified for what I’m about to say but I want you to completely consider alternative to SGLT2s. Back in the dark ages (30 years ago) we didn’t do home testing. There are many vets who’d prefer parents didn’t home test still. The vet handed me insulin and said “give this dose twice a day, check his urine for glucose and ketones, and bring him back in a few weeks for us to see if the dose is effective. Is this ideal? No. Would it be great of you eased into testing while ramping up the insulin dose? Yes but…if the only (or main) reason to use senvelgo is no testing I’d rather you consider treating diabetes the old school way. And maybe eventually transition to testing—no pressure. If the issue is giving shots you’d be surprised how quickly you will learn. If you’re giving fluids you can totally give insulin.

whatever you decide is good. Also you asked about pill—Bexacat is a pill but imo Bexacat cost more than his insulin—I think senvelgo is weight based so may be less expensive. Sending positive thoughts your way
Colleen
 
One other difference from the "old days" is that there are now continuous glucose monitors like the Freestyle Libre. They have their pros and cons but you do not have to poke your cat for a blood glucose reading. A sensor is attached to the cat and you get the glucose level on your phone.
 
Sienne and Gabby (GA) said:
One other difference from the "old days" is that there are now continuous glucose monitors like the Freestyle Libre. They have their pros and cons but you do not have to poke your cat for a blood glucose reading. A sensor is attached to the cat and you get the glucose level on your phone.
Click to expand...
Excellent point. I keep forgetting CGMs, probably out of envy of those who have them. With a Libre, the only issue is giving a shot and having recently learned to give fluids :nailbiting::eek: I can totally say shots are a walk in the park. My last cat I gave his shot while he was eating (more for my convenience as I rushed to work than to sneak up on him). He never, not once in three years, noticed he was getting a shot. Ah the good old days when I’d put down a dish, shoot, pat his head and say “mommie loves you but someones got to earn $ for cat food” —all in less than 5 minutes.

vets should push the libre rather than the sglt2’s (my vet pushed neither but if you’re going to advocate an easy route make it the CGMs)
 
Suzanne & Darcy said:
Hello Heather. You certainly have been through a lot of difficulties and major losses. I am so sorry. My heart went out to you while reading through your first post.
You are getting good advice here. My number one concern is that the Senvelgo is contraindicated (should not be used) in a cat with recurrent UTI. You indicated that she’s had UTI and it’s been treated with two different antibiotics. I have copied the specific bullet point from the information on Bexacat/Senvelgo that is applicable to Megan. I am very concerned.
  • Laboratory values or physical assessment that indicates the presence of ketones, DKA, kidney or liver disease, or recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) would preclude the use of either of these medications.
Click to expand...
Thank you so much. Im closely moniteri g both urine uti info and keytones with weekly visits to my vet. We dis see this however because you absolutely cannot ever even try senvelgo once insulin has been administered we decided to try it with close monitoring.
 
SmallestSparrow said:
Excellent point. I keep forgetting CGMs, probably out of envy of those who have them. With a Libre, the only issue is giving a shot and having recently learned to give fluids :nailbiting::eek: I can totally say shots are a walk in the park. My last cat I gave his shot while he was eating (more for my convenience as I rushed to work than to sneak up on him). He never, not once in three years, noticed he was getting a shot. Ah the good old days when I’d put down a dish, shoot, pat his head and say “mommie loves you but someones got to earn $ for cat food” —all in less than 5 minutes.

vets should push the libre rather than the sglt2’s (my vet pushed neither but if you’re going to advocate an easy route make it the CGMs)
Click to expand...
Thank you. I didn’t even know there was such a thing as a “cam” learning the acronyms. We’ll see how the selves go goes first. My concern with shots of insulin isn’t administering them, but the twice a day thing and monitoring the glucose. I just wants tot run the selves go first because it’s less frequent and invasive and I do t have to harass her as much and. Honestly I have trouble even taking my own medications and forgetting with distraction even in the moment if I’ve taken one (I can’t get into the routine of the weekly pill containers for myself as dumb as that seems so I use the bottles space out then can’t remember with them lined up etc…it’s ridiculous) anyhow just trying to try senvego first especially since you cannot try it later once insulin has event been administered. My load has been extreme and bandwidth are over the top. I’m not afraid of doing g insulin just trying to try the least invasive thing first.
 
Sienne and Gabby (GA) said:
One other difference from the "old days" is that there are now continuous glucose monitors like the Freestyle Libre. They have their pros and cons but you do not have to poke your cat for a blood glucose reading. A sensor is attached to the cat and you get the glucose level on your phone.
Click to expand...
That’s great info! We’ll see about that if she winds up on insulin. Thanks!
 
SmallestSparrow said:
One last thought about insulin and working. I worked with a previous diabetic cat (more on that in a bit). Many here are still working and one lady is working three jobs —it’s not easy and my hat is off to those who do it but insulin is doable.

I’m going to get crucified for what I’m about to say but I want you to completely consider alternative to SGLT2s. Back in the dark ages (30 years ago) we didn’t do home testing. There are many vets who’d prefer parents didn’t home test still. The vet handed me insulin and said “give this dose twice a day, check his urine for glucose and ketones, and bring him back in a few weeks for us to see if the dose is effective. Is this ideal? No. Would it be great of you eased into testing while ramping up the insulin dose? Yes but…if the only (or main) reason to use senvelgo is no testing I’d rather you consider treating diabetes the old school way. And maybe eventually transition to testing—no pressure. If the issue is giving shots you’d be surprised how quickly you will learn. If you’re giving fluids you can totally give insulin.

whatever you decide is good. Also you asked about pill—Bexacat is a pill but imo Bexacat cost more than his insulin—I think senvelgo is weight based so may be less expensive. Sending positive thoughts your way
Colleen
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Thank you. Much vet preferred swiveling because of accurate dosing as it’s liquid. It’s really not at all user friendly in it tastes and Ames antiseptic and is clear liquid so it’s hard to see if it gets in, doesn’t have any density so if you miss they could otherwise lick it off,
 
SmallestSparrow said:
One last thought about insulin and working. I worked with a previous diabetic cat (more on that in a bit). Many here are still working and one lady is working three jobs —it’s not easy and my hat is off to those who do it but insulin is doable.

I’m going to get crucified for what I’m about to say but I want you to completely consider alternative to SGLT2s. Back in the dark ages (30 years ago) we didn’t do home testing. There are many vets who’d prefer parents didn’t home test still. The vet handed me insulin and said “give this dose twice a day, check his urine for glucose and ketones, and bring him back in a few weeks for us to see if the dose is effective. Is this ideal? No. Would it be great of you eased into testing while ramping up the insulin dose? Yes but…if the only (or main) reason to use senvelgo is no testing I’d rather you consider treating diabetes the old school way. And maybe eventually transition to testing—no pressure. If the issue is giving shots you’d be surprised how quickly you will learn. If you’re giving fluids you can totally give insulin.

whatever you decide is good. Also you asked about pill—Bexacat is a pill but imo Bexacat cost more than his insulin—I think senvelgo is weight based so may be less expensive. Sending positive thoughts your way
Colleen
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Thank you but we are tying senvelgo first. I appreciate everyone’s comments on insulin and I’m aware that insulin is manageable. One cannot ever try senvelgo if they’ve already used insulin. I’m sorry it seems everyone is really against the senvelog but I just wanted to try it first and rule it in or out. If it winds up being insulin that will be fine. I’ve done far more for many pets over the years needles fluids, making food from scratch, pills, O2 machines for one of my kitties with long issues - you name it. I’m just utterly overloaded with my mom in hospice and dying and a ton of other personal things in my life and I just trying the simplest option first that has me and her with less to do and experience. Thank you. I really appreciate everyone’s comments about insulin. I’ve already started senvelgo. We are trying it. It’s going fine. No keytones. Moniteri g at vet every few days and test strips several every day at home also. So we shall see how it goes and I’ll update you all - it may be I have to do insulin for her and I will. Everyone’s life and bandwidth and capabilities and mental acuity are different and mine is alll extremely extreme right now and I’m sure others are overloaded in different ways in their lives but I’m trying to do what I need to do for what I want and need for us first. so I have to try and consider what is easiest and best for my Megan and me and work our way from there. It’s making g me feel kind of bad that I have to explain it so many times in so many threads . -like I’m unwilling g to do insulin or am
I informed or didn’t do any research first on the meds we are tying. Absolutely am totally willing to do insulin - I’m just trying this first with the senvelgo. My mom was diabetic and I had to do her glucose and insulin for her while in hospice so it’s all something g I’d like to avoid as really hard to do it with my dying mom - her fingers wouldn’t even take a poke and I’d have to do it over and over and that was hard to endure having her endure all the pokes on thickened calluses on her fingers. So I have my own personal needs for different reasons. I know you only mean to encourage and . I adore you all for your care about my kitty so very much. I really do. And if this doesn’t work then insulin it is. Sorry if this one is so long or a bit emotional but I read about five or more posts before this about insulin over senvelgo - not sure if I’m even reading them in order but I feel it necessary to keep explaining and re explaining and like I’m doing g something g wrong and trying to prove I’m trying to do what is best. I know you lovely people mean so well. I truly do. So thank you. Rest assured if I need to do insulin that I appreciate everyone’s care and advice very much. I am a bit sensitive and I’m sorry, I can’t help it.
 
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SmallestSparrow said:
One last thought about insulin and working. I worked with a previous diabetic cat (more on that in a bit). Many here are still working and one lady is working three jobs —it’s not easy and my hat is off to those who do it but insulin is doable.

I’m going to get crucified for what I’m about to say but I want you to completely consider alternative to SGLT2s. Back in the dark ages (30 years ago) we didn’t do home testing. There are many vets who’d prefer parents didn’t home test still. The vet handed me insulin and said “give this dose twice a day, check his urine for glucose and ketones, and bring him back in a few weeks for us to see if the dose is effective. Is this ideal? No. Would it be great of you eased into testing while ramping up the insulin dose? Yes but…if the only (or main) reason to use senvelgo is no testing I’d rather you consider treating diabetes the old school way. And maybe eventually transition to testing—no pressure. If the issue is giving shots you’d be surprised how quickly you will learn. If you’re giving fluids you can totally give insulin.

whatever you decide is good. Also you asked about pill—Bexacat is a pill but imo Bexacat cost more than his insulin—I think senvelgo is weight based so may be less expensive. Sending positive thoughts your way
Colleen
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Oh also I’m fortunate to know and be fine with shots if necessary. I gave insulin shots already with my last kitty family members and know and am very comfortable with how to do it and don’t have a problem with that or administering the sub q fluids. I cared for a diabetic kitty and a kidney kitty for years a long time ago. So I’m fortunate I’m not squeamish about it. ⚕️
 
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JL and Chip said:
Yep, I can see the signature. :)

A low-carb canned food is generally considered a better choice for diabetics these days. If you have a kibble-addicted cat or need to use dry food, the two low-carb options on the market (in the U.S.) are Dr. Elsey’s Clean Protein and Young Again Zero.

Your signature mentions a skin allergy… is there any chance it’s treated with steroids? (Steroids can trigger diabetes, hence the question)
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Yes it’s mostly because I want to leave food for her to graze because she was not and is not overweight and I need to get some weight back on her. That’s the only reason for you g for a dry option. And there are two so I need to leave enough out for Megan to get some and Joe won’t eat it all! He’s the tabby in the pic for my little photo icon. He’s her brother.
 
Bron and Sheba (GA) said:
Hi and welcome to you and Megan. I'm sorry for all your losses over the last couple of years.
It is overwhelming in the beginning and we are here To help you get sorted.

The first thing I would say is, if you are giving oral treatment for the diabetes, you definitely need to be testing most days for ketones in the urine., which can happen when you use senvelgo. You will need to get a bottle of ketostix from a pharmacy, collect a urine sample form Megan and test the urine as per the instructions on the bottle.

*****I am going to give you information about these oral drugs...please read it. Having a recurrent UTI precludes the use of these drugs, so I would go back to the vet and show him the information I am giving you. He should know this already. If Megan was my cat, I would not use the oral medication but use an insulin such as lantus .
NEW ORAL TREATMENTS...link here.

As far as food goes, you can feed a low carb canned food from the supermarket. Fancy Feast pates are low carb. And you can also get low carb dry food. I will tag @Diane Tyler's Mom GA as she can give you all the information about the food. There is no need to feed expensive prescription food as all.
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Thanks for the concern. very much. Testing daily at home and every few days at vet. No keytones for nearly two weeks in. carefully monitoring.
 
Megankitty said:
Oh also I’m fortunate to know and be fine with shots if necessary. I gave insulin shots already with my last kitty family members and know and am very comfortable with how to do it and don’t have a problem with that or administering the sub q fluids. I cared for a diabetic kitty and a kidney kitty for years a long time ago. So I’m fortunate I’m not squeamish about it. ⚕️
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I’m glad you are well versed and capable of using insulin. Please don’t think people are telling you that you’re doing something wrong. Everyone just wanted to be sure you were aware of all the risks and rules of SGLT2 drugs. There have been several members recently who, while pointing out the rule about not using if already tried insulin, seemed oblivious to the even more important and often deadly rules about not using if cat has had DKA, has abnormal liver tests, has had pancreatitis, has significant kidney disease etc. —you know the long list. This obviously isn’t you, since you read about the drug and I’m sure wouldn’t put your cat on it if any of these conditions existed. We just don’t want to see you back in a week with the same tragic outcome of others who wish they’d followed those rules as well as the one about not trying it after insulin.
Good luck to you and I truly hope all goes well with Megan
 
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