Petsitting Diabetic cat,my first time doing so, stressed

[jazzpurrcat]

Hi just seeking some support, one of my longstanding clients cats is now a diabetic and I am caring for over the next 3 weeks. I am struggling some as he is squirmy when giving shot and 2 x , not in a row, he has bucked backwards and bent the needle, and I do not know if he received injection or not. I know to skip and not repeat. Also this cat has missed shots for several days and been fine owner stated.

I am concerned he is drinking lots of water but client did tell me he does so, its just I don't have a benchmark yet of normal. He is leaving a minimum of 4 large clumps in box daily.

I just read on site to make sure needle is in prior to pushing syringe and I wonder if I have done so?, I hope he is not drinking so much water because I have not been doing correctly.

He is an excellent loving kitty and I just want him to feel good and be okay during my care especially. Thanks

 

[Dyana]

It is very good of you to find this site to ask for help. I commend you on that.

I don't know if insulin goes through bent needles, but I guess it depends upon how bent they are. I'm glad you know not to give any more insulin when this happens. A lot of people give the insulin when the cat is distracted while they are eating.

I hope you'll keep posting if you need help, because you came to a very good site to find help.

 

[BJM]

One of the best ways to tell if there is insulin working is to test the blood glucose (with the owner's permission, of course).

All you need is an inexpensive human glucometer, matching test strips, and 26-28 gauge lancets to prick the outer edge of the ear (between the vein and the edge). There are YouTube videos showing how to do it, too.

Practice on an apple to get a feel for how it works or perhaps on yourself.

 

[Lisa and Witn (GA)]

Are you trying to hold him when you give insulin. A lot of cats do not like that. An easier way is to give insulin while petting the cat or while feeding. If you are giving it while feeding, let him eat for a few minutes before giving the shot.

Make a little tent near the base of the neck by gently pulling the skin up. Slide the needle in the tent area and then press the plunger. Many cats do not even notice it.

If you hometest, you want to give him a low carb treat, even if you are not successful.