Questions that have surely been asked and answered before . . .

[JeanW]

But I can't find the answers . . .

Is there a reference chart for AlphaTrak / human meters?

With the AlphaTrak what is generally considered to low to shoot? I know it's at least somewhat individual to every cat but what is the general guideline?

 

[Chris & China (GA)]

Is there a reference chart for AlphaTrak / human meters?

No...there's no direct comparison

The only guidance we have is from the Romp/Rand paper that says under 50 on a human meter is the point where we take reductions in newly diagnosed cats (less than 1 year) using the Tight Regulation Protocol

On a pet meter like the AlphaTrak, it's when they drop below 68

Now the point where they're "too low to shoot" is a matter of how much data you have on your cat and how familiar you are with the dosing methods and how to handle low numbers.

At first, we don't recommend shooting below 150 (about 180 on the AT) unless you have plenty of supplies, are able to test as long as necessary and have someone with experience able and willing to stay online with you as long as necessary to make sure everybody is safe and OK.

As you gain more confidence, you gradually reduce that "no shot" number.....those of us with enough data and experience will shoot anything over 50 (on a human meter) or 68 on the AT

 

[Wendy&Neko]

There are no guidelines for the "too low to shoot" if using at AT in the SLGS method, as it was developed before people started using the AT meter. You can use the human meter values, which are 200 as no shoot, if you are new. Over time, and as you gather data, that number can go lower, but never below 90.

The 68 that Chris refers to above, is the "take action" number on the AT, where we start feeding higher vpcarb to bring in their numbers. If you were following Tight Regulation, it would also be the reduction point. On SLGS, the reduction point is below 90.

 

[JeanW]

Thanks @Chris & China and @Wendy&Neko! I appreciate the wealth of info you share.

I am using the AT and SLGS and I don't feel comfortable shooting under 200 especially since I go to work during the day or hopefully to sleep at night.

 

[Chris & China (GA)]

I don't feel comfortable shooting under 200 especially since I go to work during the day or hopefully to sleep at night.

Well you're going to want to try to start shooting below 200 if you want to give her the best chance possible at remission.

At first, maybe shoot at 180 on cycle you can be home to test (even if it MAY mean losing a little sleep)

You won't have to stay up all night, every night, but it'll be best for her if you can gradually learn to shoot lower numbers so she can hopefully stay a little lower!

 

[Jill & Jade]

I use the AlphaTrak and followed the advice here( by the same women giving you advice) to cut off at 150 when I first started....it worked out well! And loosing some sleep is definitely something that will have to happen at some point. You really do have to test often.