Test, feed, shoot a bit later?

[Tom & Thomas (GA)]

We usually do test, shoot and feed in that order and all at once. Appetite is never a problem with Thos, especially since I'm pretty good about enforcing a two-hour fast before test. Using Lantus.

Sometimes, however, I'm under intense pressure to put a meal on the table when we're not yet at shot time. How bad would it be test, feed and give the shot a bit later? Without another test at shot time, since food would be kicking in. If acceptable, on an occasional basis, how long can the gap be? A half-hour? A whole hour? Or is this one of those things where everything depends on everything, including ECID? Or simply something I shouldn't consider?

 

[Tina and Boozle]

I have zero advice - I just wanted to say that he is a stunningly handsome cat.

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

I would stick with the test feed shoot all in a short time. If it interferes with meals can you move the TFShoot times back or forward an hour permanently? Would that work for you?
Do you shoot before you feed? It is better to test, feed at least some food so you know he will eat, then shoot.

 

[SpotsMom]

I have had this issue with Spot. My general rule of thumb was if I test an hour early and his number is high enough that I would shoot, then I go ahead and feed and shoot an hour later. If it’s still too low, hold off on food til you know he’s on his way up.

 

[Tom & Thomas (GA)]

Yes, @SpotsMom , I was figuring this would only be an option if I'd gotten a very comfortable test result.

Ah, @Bron and Sheba , you have uncovered our lack of a true regular feeding schedule. Putting out fresh food is a matter of who's around, who's hungry and how close we are to wanting to test. In fact, testing and feeding times are a bit of a dance, with one sometimes delayed for the sake of the other. And once in a while Thos winds up cranky for food when we're not yet ready for test-and-shoot. Not a big deal, at least to my mind. He may feel different.

Thos is pretty much always ready to eat post-shot. Though he may have to step outside for bit after the first couple nibbles. I really like getting all the coercion over at once. Unless I need to think the results over first, the same gentle restraint can serve for the shot as well.

But maybe I'll have to rethink all this at some point.

(Thanks, @Tina and Boozle . The picture is actually from ten years ago. But he's still the same sweet guy, maybe a bit more substantial.)

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

I find if you stick to a routine, you are less likely to make an error or forget something.
Cats also like a routine.