I am worried about my sisters diabetic cat.

My sisters cat was diagnosed with diabetes about 6 weeks ago, she refuses to test even though I tried to talk her into it. Her cat is on Lantus, started at 1 unit twice a day, they take the cat in to be tested once a week. The insulin was raised each time up to 5 units a day! Two days ago the cat had a dental and infection was found, the vet said to lower the dose to 3 units but that the cat might be in remission because the glucose was so low when they tested it. I saw the cat today, she was walking uneven and I asked my sister about this as I know it could mean a hypo but she said it is from the pain patch. I really think she is putting this cat in jeopardy. I had a diabetic cat and tested him at least several times each day and I told my sister it does not hurt them but she says she will not poke the poor cats ears. I know that none of you can do anything but maybe I just wanted to vent about this to people who understand my concern.

 

Can you show her some of the videos of people testing their cats? I never imagined I would be able to test Cleo's BG. I'm squeamish about blood and she's a feisty little thing. Videos helped me get over that. So did testing my own blood, so I could get the hang of it and see that it wasn't difficult at all

 

Can you offer to test just once so she can see it's not so bad?

 

I watched a ton of videos and read info here and it was super helpful. I never thought Gizmo would let me test him, willingly or easily, but it was surprisingly easy to establish our little routine. He even knows the sound of the test strips in the container, and if he hears it he'll come out all on his own for test time! (Good behavior is rewarded with treats, of course!)

It really is SO much easier than it seems at first...plus, I didn't/don't have the coffers to have him tested at the vet every time we need to do a curve and he hates the vet's office with a burning passion so I figure it's better for him not to be that stressed.

 

That must be hard to watch. It is sad that the cat has to suffer for her ignorance about diabetes. If you cannot reason with her, there is not much more you can do.. unless you are into catnapping.

 

I no longer have any of my testing things as when Shanti died I gave them to the vet to pass on to someone who might need them. It is over 3 years since he died. As soon as I heard about her kitty (Dr. Pepper) I told her that testing is the way to keep track and that Shanti never had a bit of reaction to having his ears pricked. Her vet even said "You can test" but she won't do it. I live 90 minutes away, otherwise I would just go buy some stuff and test the kitty myself at least once each day. Also she continues to feed only dry. Just is frustrating to me because I know she is not doing the best for this sweet kitty. Thank you for answering, especially since it is not my cat and there is nothing anyone can do. Like I said I just feel better sharing with others who can understand my concern.

 

Actually this is a good thing given that she is giving 3 units and not testing!