Recent diagnosis

[Daisynbeto]

Hello! I am pet mom to Daisy and her son Beto. Daisy was just diagnosed with diabetes. Yesterday I tried to administer her first injection-- to no avail. She yelped ran, then looked at me like she was scared. I do not know how I'm going to do this. She's the type of cat that, while very sweet, we could never pick her up and hold her. I'm completely freaked out by the needles. I can't imagine just stabbing her. My question is, can I put the insulin in to her wet food??!?

 

[Sharon14]

No, the insulin must be injected. To help you can start desensitizing Daisy to the shots. Start by just lightly pinching the skin on the scruff then give a treat. As she gets comfy with this, lift a little higher like your going to inject. It’s very important that you stay calm and relaxed with a can do attitude because our cats can sense any nerves or hesitation and will react. Tell us more about Daisy. What are you feeding, what insulin are you using and at what dose.

 

[jt and trouble (GA)]

Welcome to FDMB You've already taken a good step by finding us. See? progress already! Sharon has already given you good advice. If your kitty like treats, this is the best way to desensitize Daisy,
It is scary isnt it? I was a needle phobic myself. If I could do it, so can you. Theres a wealth of information here and people to help you digest it.
Diabetes is not a death sentence with a learning curve, but thats what we are here for.
Daisy is a VERY lucky kitty to have you as her caretaker. You will find strength you never knew you had here. Let us help you help Daisy. YOU GOT THIS!
jeanne

 

[Juls and Billy]

What insulin are you using, Daisy's mom? Depending on the insulin type, you can inject her while she's eating and distracted. Some insulins you have to feed prior to the shot though. Another thing to consider is that you have to tent the skin up, and keep the angle of the needle very flat in regards to her body. If you aim down so that you hit the muscle, it's far more painful. The idea is to slip it in just under the skin.

I'm sure diabetics all over the world with they could just eat their insulin instead of inject it, but it just doesn't work that way.

 

[jt and trouble (GA)]

Hope everything is ok...sigh I hate to think we ran you off. Sometimes suggestions get just as overwhelming as the disease.

Please know you have a family behind you here.