Trouble giving injections

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Reilly

Member Since 2022
Hi, this is my very first post. My boy Reilly, age 11 was recently diagnosed with Diabetes. He was very sick for a while, but is home for 3 weeks now, and after numerous medications, he is just down to getting his insulin 2xs a day. The trouble is, I can’t seem to get two doses in him a day. I am frustrated because I can’t seem to mange the injection process. He won’t hold still, he tries to bolt right after the needle is inserted. He tries to run and hide. I have tried to reward him with treats afterward an injection, but this isn’t working. I am in tears never knowing how each injection will work out. He will never be regulated, and I am afraid he will get very sick again. Is my experience unique, or have others had issues with injections? I would welcome any tips. The UTube videos from doctors offices always make it seem so easy. Reilly is on Lantus 2.5 units right now-when he actually gets it. Thanks.
 
It sometimes is difficult at first giving injections and also learning to home test. If you are nervous or apprehensive about giving the injection, most likely Reilly is picking up on those feelings and behaving the same way.

There are a couple things that you can do to make it easier. The first one is to help you . While you are getting the syringe ready and giving him insulin, sing a silly song. Yes, this is strange advice, but it works. By doing something silly, it helps calm your nerves. Pick a silly song or nursery rhymes and sing them to Reilly. The more ridiculous you feel while doing it, the calmer you will be. :D

The other thing is while Reilly is eating, pull up some of the skin to tent it and give the injection. Remember you are singing that silly song while doing this. Don't hesitate, just do it. Most cats are so involved with eating, they will not notice getting the dose. You do want to make sure that he has eaten most of his meal first.

It just takes practice to become comfortable with doing it. The more confidence you feel the more he will relax also.
 
Thank you, I will try a silly song. I am dyslexic and seem to do things backwards. I am going to take your advice, but also check out the videos again. I want so much to get this right for him.
 
Lisa’s advice is great. I would add that you can try to get him used to the pulling up of the skin by doing just that without the injection a few times a day so he starts to think it’s no big deal because there’s no injection happening with it so that when you do do it, it will take him by surprise or he’ll hardy notice it.

question, what’s the length of the needle you’re using? And are you inserting the needle diagonally to his body? It can hurt if it’s a) a long needle your trying to insert all the way in and b) if you’re inserting it straight in as oppose to at an angle
 
I remember when I was just starting out with the insulin injections back in January, I could not get the hang of it and one of the members here suggested that as well -- sing a little song, it helps relax you and the kitty. It seemed kind of silly but it worked! That is how I came up with The Hendrick Pokey

I would sing it when doing insulin shots or ear pokes. Sung to the tune of The Hokey Pokey, you can hear me singing it under my breath in the video down there in my signature.
 
Funny, I watched your video. I sang close to Simons face because he lasted on the back of the couch but I'm hoping he will start associating the singing with calmness and be less freaked out when I start doing the process of prepping his ear. I use the rice in a warm sock method I saw on a YouTube. The singing will benefit it
 
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