911 *** Sugar higher than I have ever seen

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by mfrancis69, Jul 25, 2015.

Thread Status:
Not open for further replies.
  1. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I haven't been on the forum in quite a long time. Sassy had OTJ trial and was off for quite awhile. Now she is back on and has been for several months. Today was very different. I came home from work and my fiance had said she didn't eat all day. This is rare because since our move her appetite has been insatiable. I had just run out of test strips a few days ago and after work today and being a pay day went out and got more. I immediately tested her after knowing she hadn't been eating, she also has been drinking alot of water and threw that up right after. Her sugar was 419, she has never reached these high numbers before. I gave her a shot and tested her after two hours, she had only come down to 412. I gave her another 2 units, and now tested her again after another two hours and it has gone up even higher to 436. What is going on and what do I do to make her feel better. Reminder, she is 15 years old. But I don't want her hurting or suffering. Please help.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Jul 27, 2015
    Reason for edit: Removed the 911 prefix as Sassy is being seen by a vet.
  2. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    Do you have any ketone test strips?? I'd test her for ketones .....a sudden turn like that can mean DKA is brewing

    Also, am I right that you gave 2 units 2 hours after giving 2 units?
     
  3. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Please test for ketones. Just tried looking at Sassy's SS: Can you plug in her #s since she's been back on Lantus? What are you feeding her?
    How much and how often? Is it possible she ate something out of the ordinary? And did you just move, or has it been awhile? Sometimes a kitty can spike some really high #s if stressed/ excited over something. How is she behaving in general?
     
  4. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    And is she peeing normally? Because, if not, she could have a urinary tract infection going on...
     
  5. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Chris, it looks like Melissa has two threads going here @ once about this, just so you know (I answered/ asked some ?s on the other one).
     
    Chris & China (GA) likes this.
  6. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I don't have any ketones strips but the glucometer has something that tells me the ketones are high. Yes, I gave two units and then another two after two hours. it wasn't dropping and i didn't know what to do and now they are even higher.
     
  7. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    please clarify....
    did you give her 2 units and then 2 hours later gave her another 2 units?
     
  8. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Sorry I do have two threads going, I wasn't sure if the other was being seen. 25 minutes had gone by without any views or replys.
     
  9. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    Let's choose one....Here's the info from the other one and let's just stick with this one

    You don't ever shoot more sooner than 12 hours (just wanted to let you know...No judgement)

    I'd keep trying to get her to eat (if she's not throwing ketones) and if she's not eating by morning, she needs to see a vet. It's also important for you to start testing again and keeping her spreadsheet up to date. It's really hard for us to be able to know what might be going on without the pieces to the puzzle
     
  10. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    Has she been getting insulin lately? If she has, it's possible she's "bouncing" from a low number that didn't get caught and that's why she's running so high today
     
  11. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I am going to reply to this thread only, sorry about the confusion, alot of time had gone by without views or replys.
    I haven't gotten the spreadsheet updated because I was without a computer for months and had been writing it in a journal. It would take me forever to get all her numbers into a spreadsheet. I know that would help.
    Her number haven't been bad for a long time. With proper shots she stays in the higher 100's. I have nothing to test to ketones. We moved about 4 months ago and she seemed to be adjusting fine. but we also moved twice in about a 9 month period.
    Yes, I gave her 2 units and two hours later she had only dropped 7 from the last reading, so I gave her another two units. I panicked but now it has gone up.
     
    Chris & China (GA) likes this.
  12. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    (Reposted from the other thread): So did your glucometer actually show as "high ketones?"
    Just tried looking at Sassy's SS: Can you plug in her #s since she's been back on Lantus? What are you feeding her?
    How much and how often? Is it possible she ate something out of the ordinary? And did you just move, or has it been awhile? Sometimes a kitty can spike some really high #s if stressed/ excited over something.
    How is she behaving in general? And is she peeing normally?
     
  13. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    The other post had more replies and I replied to it. I will stick with this one and delete the other one if I can.
     
  14. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2015
    Most meters have a "ketone" warning that goes off if you go above around 300. This is not testing for ketones, but rather a warning for human type I diabetics that they should test. It doesn't mean anything.


    However, with the not eating, I would check for ketones. Most pharmacies sell the urine test strips.
     
    Jill & Alex (GA) likes this.
  15. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I am going to reply to this thread only, sorry about the confusion, alot of time had gone by without views or replys. I tried to delete the other one, but I don't know how. This is my reply on the other post.
    I haven't gotten the spreadsheet updated because I was without a computer for months and had been writing it in a journal. It would take me forever to get all her numbers into a spreadsheet. I know that would help.
    Her number haven't been bad for a long time. With proper shots she stays in the higher 100's. I have nothing to test to ketones. We moved about 4 months ago and she seemed to be adjusting fine. but we also moved twice in about a 9 month period.
    Yes, I gave her 2 units and two hours later she had only dropped 7 from the last reading, so I gave her another two units. I panicked but now it has gone up.
     
  16. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2015
    High blood sugar isn't immediately dangerous, so take a deep breath. The change in appetite and behavior however might mean something is going on, like an infection.
     
  17. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    To clarify I have been testing her regularly but have not had a computer to post to the forum. We fell on hard times and are trying to get back on our feet. We moved across country to try and start over.
    I have been testing her but not been diligent about keeping them all written down.
     
  18. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Okay. First: Don't panic; numbers in the 400s will not kill her. She's being treated.
    However, you are going to need to test her every hour or two for a while tonight because you've given her a total of 4 units Lantus within about 2 hours. (Please don't ever do that in future, ok? Not even if she spikes a 500.) Don't worry: You can steer her with some high-carb food if she drops too low as a result of the excess insulin.
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  19. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    She is not acting herself and she is not eating after having an appetite that she begs relentlessly about every two hours to eat. I give her Friskies Pate canned food, nothing else.(As I learned about that on the forum)
    She drank water and immediately threw it back up. This is not normal behavior for her at all. She is in a trance like state, she hears me but doesn't really react like she usually does. (come when she is called or respond with a meow)
     
  20. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    (Reposted from other thread):
    Okay. First: Don't panic; numbers in the 400s will not kill her. She's being treated.
    However, you are going to need to test her every hour or two for a while tonight because you've given her a total of 4 units Lantus within about 2 hours. (Please don't ever do that in future, ok? Not even if she spikes a 500.) Don't worry: You can steer her with some high-carb food if she drops too low as a result of the excess insulin.

    Are we really using only this thread now? If so, please put an ALL CAPS message in the other so that folks who've responded there are well aware. Thanks.
     
  21. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    You don't have to update it back to the beginning of time...If you can just get the last week or two it will really help (when you have time)

    Keep trying to find something she'll eat if she's still not eating and if she's still not eating in the morning, she probably should see a vet. Cats develop hepatic lipidosis from not eating for long periods of time and that's very expensive to treat (and not always successfully)

    If you don't have any ketone strips, it's probably a good idea to get some. If she's throwing ketones and it's more than a trace, that's an emergency.

    When you need eyes quickly, there's a new "Prefix" you can choose that will bring the 911 up in red letters in the original title line (just so you know)
     
  22. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Yes, this thread only. I tried to delete the other one.
     
  23. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    I see you're in San Diego area - make sure you know where the nearest emergency vet clinic is - just in case. In the meantime, please retest and let us know all the BG numbers you are getting & any changes in her behaviors/ responses.
     
  24. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    You don't have to update it back to the beginning of time...If you can just get the last week or two it will really help (when you have time)

    Keep trying to find something she'll eat if she's still not eating and if she's still not eating in the morning, she probably should see a vet. Cats develop hepatic lipidosis from not eating for long periods of time and that's very expensive to treat (and not always successfully)

    If you don't have any ketone strips, it's probably a good idea to get some. If she's throwing ketones and it's more than a trace, that's an emergency.

    When you need eyes quickly, there's a new "Prefix" you can choose that will bring the 911 up in red letters in the original title line (just so you know)
     
  25. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2015
    Is there a 24 hour pharmacy or walmart or target near you? They sell the ketone strips usually in the diabetic aisle could you get some tonight? If she does have ketones anymore than trace, then she probably needs to go to the vet today.
     
    Jill & Alex (GA) likes this.
  26. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Thanks, not sure how to find that but I will look for it if needed next time.
     
  27. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    PLEASE NOTE:

    I have merged the two threads and added the 911 icon.
     
  28. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I am no longer in San Diego. I moved to Illinois and I live in the country, nothing is close unfortunately.
    And nothing is 24 hours in the closest town to me.
     
  29. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Thank you
     
  30. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    When you start a new post, click on the drop down arrow and choose the prefix you want....When your question has been answered or the emergency is over, go back and "edit" that original title line and choose "No prefix"
    prefix.png
     
  31. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Got it, Thank you
     
  32. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    If there's any way to get some ketone test strips tonight, I'd get them, but if she doesn't improve (in how she's acting and still refusing to eat) I think I'd want her seen by a vet tonight. If she is throwing ketones, it really is important that she be under the care of a vet.
     
  33. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Was going by what was on your profile page; no worries, update it when you don't have so much going on! You're in the Central Time Zone, correct? So what time was that last 2-unit shot of Lantus, your local time?
     
  34. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Melissa,

    I am unable to stay up with you, but you're already receiving some great advice and help.

    After giving 2u Lantus at shot time and then again 2 hours later (+2), it's possible you'll see overlapping nadirs (when the insulin reaches the lowest point). It looks like you'll be up testing for awhile yet tonight. A few things worth mentioning:
    • There is a possibility that you may not see Sassy drop til much later than usual in her cycle rather than when she usually drops. For that reason, don't be fooled and go to bed if her numbers remain high without checking her the rest of the night. Set an alarm if you have to to check her throughout the night because she may drop towards the end of the cycle.
    • Long-acting insulins also have the ability to produce prolonged hypoglycemia events... meaning 15 - 24 hours long.
    • And last, but not least... there's also a possibility the over dose *could* be uneventful by resulting in high numbers throughout the cycle. Let's hope this is the case!
    As already mentioned, testing for ketones is a real good idea. If Sassy isn't eating and is lethargic, you may want to take her to an ER. There might be some underlying cause for the high numbers. From what you've said, it also sounds like a vet visit is in order.

    Good luck. Hoping for an uneventful night for you and Sassy...


    ~ Jill
     
    Robin&BB likes this.
  35. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    About 9:20 pm
     
  36. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Thank you
     
  37. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Melissa - I will be up for a while yet, as I am on Pacific Daylight Time here. (Just so you know ...)
     
  38. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    For those following (approximately):

    PMPS 419 (2u)
    +2 412 (2u)
    +4 436


    Melissa, is this correct?
     
  39. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Yes, that is correct. I have been trying to fill in her spreadsheet for this month. I also just tested her again and she is at 404 that is 2 hours after the last reading.
    She still will not eat and just wants to lay around, not moving to quickly and not purring either.
     
  40. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    It is 1 am here. I need to try and get a little rest. I will set an alarm and test her again. Then I will get on here in the morning and give an update.
    Thanks to all those who responded to me and made me feel better about what Sassy is going through tonight.
    I will get back on the thread in the morning.
     
    Robin&BB likes this.
  41. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    I'd test again at 3 and go from there

    Hope Sassy does OK for you tonight...sending prayers for her
     
    Critter Mom and Robin&BB like this.
  42. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Ok, Melissa. Thanks for letting me know; I'm glad to know you'll be setting an alarm tonight. Keep your hypo response kit handy just in case, ok?
    Will be thinking good thoughts for you & Sassy as I hit the bed & will check early in a.m. for your update!:bighug: - Robin
     
  43. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    I'd stay longer but it's after 1am here and I have to pick my DM up and take her to an early church breakfast in the morning so can't stay online longer.

    Prayers and vines sent Sassy's way tonight and :bighug::bighug: for Melissa
     
    Robin&BB likes this.
  44. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    I'll be here on and off for a while yet tonight. :) Looks like you're testing again in a little under an hour...if you post the number we'll figure out when you need to test next. :)
     
    Critter Mom and Robin&BB like this.
  45. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    So glad you're keeping an eye on this, April! Couldn't sleep, so decided to check back in, but don't think I can stay awake much longer tonight.
    And ... (totally off-topic) I just watched your Rosa's OTJ video - fantastic! So happy for you both ... and don'tcha just LOVE black kitties?;)
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  46. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    No problem - I'll be up until around 3 at the very least...gotta make the most of the weekend! ;)

    And thank you - I do love black kitties...every cat I've owned has been black. :) Your Bat-Bat is such a beautiful kitty - she reminds me a lot of Regan...that facial bone structure on a black cat is so pretty. :) Rosa is very proud to have got to 3 months OTJ recently - and she'd love to have another black cat join her at the Falls (yep, that's a hint to Bat-Bat that a second remission would be nice)! ;)
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  47. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Bat-Bat is trying to get there - she's been "on the brink" for a little bit now: <0.15U ProZinc as needed ... can't quite believe that she could hypo on me twice this month on that tiny a dose. Go figure! Crazy cat.
     
  48. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    Oh, I can believe it...Rosa actually did earn her last reduction by going into hypo numbers on 0.05u of Lantus in the end...and she'd had a load of skipped shots in the couple of weeks before too! I think when they're ready, they're ready...and nothing can stop them! :) I really hope she makes it - getting there once is great, but to do it twice is really something special! :D
     
    Robin&BB likes this.
  49. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Thanks, April. Knowing Rosa did it that way gives me hope that a at will make it there soon, too. (Ok, now I really AM going to bed! :rolleyes:)
     
    Last edited: Jul 26, 2015
    Reason for edit: Bad typing while half asleep!
    manxcat419 likes this.
  50. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @mfrancis69 -

    Hi Melissa. Just checking in to see what's happening with Sassy and yourself. Can you let us know how things are going?

    .
     
  51. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Ok, So she was at 397 early this morning and now she is at 310. Her numbers are coming down but she still will not eat.
    I tried giving her tuna, nothing. Then I tried at least to give her milk, normally a favorite treat from time to time, she didn't touch that either.
    I am boiling some chicken and seeing if I can get her to eat that.
     
  52. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Do you have any baby food?
     
  53. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Do I give her another shot this morning? Or should I wait a little bit.
    My schedule has been pretty sporadic and normally I would have already given her a shot or depending on my work hours, she would get one in a few hours.
    So because of that it would not be out of the norm to wait a little while.
     
  54. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    No, don't have baby food
     
  55. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Sorry for that last post. On the wrong thread.
    I don't give dosing advice, normally. Will see if some of the more experienced eyes are on.
     
  56. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Ok the chicken didn't work either. So far she has no interest in anything at all. She hasn't eaten in at least 12 hours, maybe more.
     
  57. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    One other idea...a plain scrambled egg?
     
  58. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    No, do not shoot anything into her yet this morning - she needs to get some food into her. How long since she last ate anything?
     
  59. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Thanks, Robin. Out of my league here.
     
  60. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Relieved to hear from you, Melissa.

    With the high numbers and lack of appetite I'm really concerned about Sassy. If she were mine I'd be looking to get her to the vet ASAP. If that's tricky, is there any way that you might be able to get hold of some ketone test strips fairly quickly (I know that's not easy where you're located).

    Is Sassy drinking anything for you?
     
    manxcat419 likes this.
  61. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Is Sassy peeing normally? Is there any sign she might have an infection?
     
  62. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Yes, is she drinking & holding water down now, at least?
    Melissa, please confirm that you got my last message. DO NOT SHOOT YET. Continue monitoring her BG. She may yet still drop.
     
  63. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    No signs that she is in pain, she is drinking water. She ate a little food around 11 or 1130 yesterday.
    My fiance said she only nibbled not her usual amount. She hasn't eaten anything since.
    What is the ketone strips going to do for her. I have never used them before and don't even know what I would be testing and how?
     
  64. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I am not going to give her a shot, going to test her again in about an hour.
     
  65. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    I agree with Aine. If she is still lethargic, seems unwell and won't eat, I think you should take her to a vet ASAP.
    At the very least you need to find a pharmacy which sells ketone strips....not sure where they are sold in the US.
    If she has ketones in her urine, she is going to need fluids at the vets and insulin to combat the illness. It won't go away on its own and can get worse quickly. But you can't give insulin at home if she is not eating.
     
    Last edited: Jul 26, 2015
  66. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Good girl! But she needs to see a vet ASAP. Is she drinking ANY water & holding that down? Again, when was last time she ate any food?
     
  67. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    Ketone strips will show if she has ketones in her urine. If she does have them it means you need to get to the vet for treatment. Some of the symptoms of being ill with ketones are not eating, vomiting, being lethargic, breath smelling like acetone. It can lead to ketoacidosis which is very serious.
     
  68. Dyana

    Dyana Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    I would go buy some ketone test strips as soon as you are able to. Ruling out ketones would be great.
    Do you have any high carb food, syrup, or honey in the house just in case your need to raise her BG numbers?
     
  69. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I have things that can raise her BG, but it hasn't come down enough to worry about that right now and without eating she is coming down very slow even after two 2 unit shots last night.
     
  70. Merlin

    Merlin Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 18, 2014
    You can buy them at any pharmacy or pharmacy at a big box store like Walmart. You can call ahead of time if need be to make sure they are in stock. It comes with about 50-100 strips in a small tube. When she pees, you just stick it behind her tail so she can pee on the stick. Then you compare the color to the color key on the tube. It will tell you if she is negative, trace or has ketones. Sometimes you can stick it in a puddle in the kitty litter box but you have to try and not get the stick contaminated with the litter. You will just have to watch her like a hawk and be ready when she needs to pee. Not sure if you can wait that long since it sounds like a trip to the vet is pretty imminent.

    Agree with all, if you can get to the store asap. Hopefully you have someone there that can keep testing for you, that is if you have ways to drive to the store.
     
  71. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Melissa,

    Thanks for the update.

    When a diabetic cat's not eating there are two worries - hepatic lipidosis (HL) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Cats have very different metabolisms to dogs and humans. They need to eat very regularly or their little bodies will start breaking down bodily protein and fat. This can lead to complications where fatty deposits build up in the liver (HL) or a build-up of ketones in the blood. Both conditions need urgent attention as they can potentially - and quickly - prove fatal, hence the need for prompt intervention and, if necessary, a prompt visit to the vets.

    I'm glad to hear that Sassy is at least drinking. Try to keep her hydrated as best you can since if she is throwing ketones the fluids can help flush them out. Maybe try poaching a little chicken breast in water and giving her some of the cooled broth to make fluids a bit more tempting. If that doesn't work, we can look at other options.

    Is she showing any signs of nausea (e.g. sniffing at the food then walking away, licking at then lip licking/pulling faces)? There's a good nausea symptom checker at Tanya's Site.
     
    manxcat419 likes this.
  72. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    TO ALL FOLLOWING: Is there a way we can do a shout out to see if there's any member nearby Melissa who may have any ketone strips, as she is in a more rural area. Melissa what town are you nearest to in your state?
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  73. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Melissa, you mean last she ate was 11-11:30 A.M., is that correct? What's the town nearest to you with big box stores/ pharmacy in it?
     
  74. Merlin

    Merlin Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 18, 2014
    If there is a vet or doctors office in your town, they may some. Also it looks like Lincoln, IL has a Walmart. This town may be near you.
     
  75. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Yes. that time is correct so almost 24 hours without eating.
    I just tested her and she is coming up again.
    I have a Walmart by me, but I have never tested her ketones before, what do I do and what do I need?
    We are about 15 minutes or so from the closest store, so if I go I want to know what I would need.
    We don't have a vet close either and it is a sunday, these small towns don't function during the weekend or evenings.
    I am going to try the scrambled egg thing and see if I can get her to eat.
    Need some specifics though, How do I test for ketones with the strips? If she isn't going to the bathroom can I still test for them?
    If she is high what do I do then? Is there another option for me other than a vet until tomorrow?
    I am pretty broke to be honest and I start a new job tomorrow, things will get better and I will have the ability to get her to a vet, but right now I don't have that option. I simply can't afford it.
    Vet do not let you pay a little here and there and with it being a sunday it would have to be an emergency visit which would cost me even more.
    I have only been in Illinois for 3 months and havent seen a vet yet.
     
  76. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I just saw the request for the town. I am in Lincoln Illinois area, I am abut 15 minutes outside that area. The closest large city to me is Springfield, IL and that is about 35 minutes away.
    Other than that is Decatur about 45 minutes and Peoria also about 45 minutes.
     
  77. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    She has no interest in the tuna I tried to give her, even the juices which she does normally like. I boiled a chicken breast and she sniffed it and walked away.
    I am going to try the scrabbled egg and see if she will eat that.
     
  78. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    You test with the strips either by putting the strip under the urine stream, or you could put some crumpled plastic wrap at the edge of the LB to catch a couple of drops and check it from there.
     
  79. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    TO ALL FOLLOWING:

    Does anyone think it might help if Melissa picked up some famotidine in case Sassy is nauseated? If yes, then can you post the proper type of Pepcid she needs to ask for, please? (I know there are different types and I don't know which one is the correct one for a cat - our vet prescribes generic famotidine for Saoirse).

    Is there anything else that you can suggest that might help Sassy to eat? For example, can someone recommend a cat-friendly baby food?

    MELISSA:

    The ketone test strips are really easy to use. :)

    .
     
    manxcat419 and Robin&BB like this.
  80. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Am unsure re: the correct Pepcid-type antinausea formula for a cat - hopefully, someone else here knows.
    Melissa, I know you are wracking your brain trying to find a way to get kitty to eat. Any way your fiance can go to town for ketone strips?

    If you are unable to get to Lincoln WalMart for those, I can post a shout-out for you on the Main Health Forum to see if there's an FDMB member anywhere nearby you who has any strips. Please advise. Thanks.
     
  81. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Ok, I get the concept of the test strips but I haven't even seen her use the litter box. If she doesn't go, is there another way to test her?
    The eggs didn't work either. I just caught her laying next to the water bowl with her head resting on the edge and randomly drinking water. But that is all I see her do, no interest in the eggs at all.
     
  82. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    If she were mine, I would take her to the nearest vet ER Clinic asap. Seriously.
     
  83. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Can you remember the last time Sassy used the litter box, Melissa? Can you let us know about this asap, please?

    Also, is Sassy hunched up/crouching? Is her head down?
    .
     
  84. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    I bought Beechnut Stage 1 Classics. Beef and beef broth, chicken and chicken broth and turkey and turkey broth. I would take her to the vet as well.
     
    manxcat419 and Critter Mom like this.
  85. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    These are what I found:
    Animal Emergency Clinic Of Springfield

    OPEN NOW

    Today:Open 24 Hours

    1333 Wabash Ave,

    Springfield, IL 62704
     
    Critter Mom and Robin&BB like this.
  86. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    Thank you Rhonda - you beat me to it. Good!!!
     
  87. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Crap....sorry...I hate Google sometimes. The second one was good. But at one spot it said 11 hours. That didn't make sense. In 11 hours you should be able to get completely across any state.

    The second was Animal Emergency Clinic of McLean County.
    [​IMG]
    2505 E Oakland Avenue
    Bloomington, IL 61701-5837
    Phone: 309-665-5020
    Fax: 309-665-5021

    [​IMG]
     
  88. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    They are both about 40 minutes away from Lincoln.
     
  89. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    I need to duck off for a while. Robin and Rhonda, are you OK to keep an eye on Melissa and Sassy?

    Melissa, if Sassy were mine I would take her to the vet. I'm really, really concerned about her and I think it is far and away the safest thing to do.

    BTW, can you let us know when she last pooped? Also can you keep an eye on her behaviour round both her food/water bowls and the litter box.
     
    manxcat419 and Robin&BB like this.
  90. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    Both of those clinics are 45 minutes away from me. I will keep that in mind but again I don't have any money.
    With it being a sunday it will be double the normal visit I would assume.
    When she walks, which isn't much right now she is a little hunched, very lethargic and wants to lay on her stomach stretched out, head up or nuzzled in to a wall or something.
     
  91. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Aine, I'm not going anywhere.
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  92. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    DITTO! My vote is take her to a vet - now. I am especially concerned since last we heard from you she was laying down beside the water bowl.
    Even if lapping at water, I believe she is too sick for you to risk not having a vet see her right away.
     
  93. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2010
    I disagree on the no insulin advice. With the elevated glucose levels, a token dose of 0.5 units should start bringing that down, may trigger some hunger, and may improve her energy level.
     
  94. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I don't know when she last used the litter box. After getting home from work yesterday I haven't seen her use it, but that doesn't mean she hasn't when we weren't in the room
     
  95. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    That is what I was thinking.
     
    Critter Mom and Robin&BB like this.
  96. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Thank you BJ for coming in at just the right time!
     
    Tucker&Me likes this.
  97. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2010
    Take a look at the secondary monitoring tools in my signature link, which may help you monitor her today.
     
    Last edited: Jul 26, 2015
    Tucker&Me likes this.
  98. mfrancis69

    mfrancis69 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2013
    I have to run to the store, see if I can come up with something. I will be back on when I get back. Thanks for all the advice and assistance.
     
  99. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2015
    I also disagree, as long as there is some honey or syrup available, I would give at least some insulin (I'd personally do half or full of her usual dose). At 300+ she has some room to go down. If it is DKA, no insulin is going to speed up the dehydration.


    Melissa,
    If she does have ketones starting, if you go to the vet -today- they might be able to give some fluids and send you home with some nausea meds. If you wait until tomorrow or later, she may be so sick that she requires inpatient hospitalization. Ketones can progress very quickly, and catching them as early as you can is going to save you a lot of money in the long run. Inpatient can cost >$1500.
     
  100. Robin&BB

    Robin&BB Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2013
    At the time, she was still dropping, so was waiting to see how this was rolling out before she dosed any more. Perhaps the token dose would help, now that more time has gone by. Appears she's pretty nauseated.
     
Thread Status:
Not open for further replies.

Share This Page