? Feeding throughout 12 hour cycle - even between nadir and next shot

Just read some information on the FDMB website that is contrary to what I am doing, so I want to clarify what I should do. Currently, I'm using a timed feeder and Freckles gets fed 5 times approximately 2.5 hours apart in every 12 hour cycle. So, she is getting food in between the nadir and the next shot which is contrary to the information below:


From Q2.4 Can I free-feed my cat?
"Most people here would agree that feeding a cat between the time insulin peaks and the next shot is unwise, although a small high-protein, zero-carbohydrate snack such as chicken or tuna should not substantially affect blood glucose" http://www.felinediabetes.com/fdmb-faq.htm

I realize the FAQ page was last updated in 2008 so I want to clarify if I can continue feeding every 2.5 hours or if I should only be feeding Freckles between shot time and nadir each cycle?

Thanks in advance for help with clearing up my question!

 

One of the phrases you'll no doubt get tired of hearing is, every cat is different (ECID). This is true for how you feed your cat. The only thing you do not want to do is feed Freckles in the window that's 2 hours prior to a shot. You don't want food to artificially raise your pre-shot number so you're thinking it's safe to give a shot and it really may not be.

In general, feeding after nadir means that there's less insulin available to offset the effects of food. This may be more of an issue if your cat is very sensitive to carbs.

 

Thanks Sienne. Looking at Freckles' SS, I don't think feeding after nadir is having much of an effect on her numbers, but maybe she would be lower after nadir if I didn't feed? Is the goal to have a 'flat' curve or try to get low numbers after nadir?

 

The "ideal" Lantus curve is flat. You ultimately want your kitty to be in normal blood glucose (BG) numbers throughout the cycle.

 

Yes... ultimately AND HOPEFULLY Freckles will get down to normal BG numbers throughout her cycle soon. I need a pair of those patient pants too! Maybe a few pair! lol Then if what I'm doing regarding feeding her throughout the cycle isn't harming her or giving false results on her SS I'll keep doing what I'm doing then. She is sooooooo ravenous, poor little thing. She knows exactly when her next snack is and has taken up post to sleep right beside the feeder.