Looks like we're not alone!!

My name is Bernie. My diabetic kitty is Basia (polish I think for Barbara). In 2012 my Dad died and I had been looking after him for about 10 years. My cat had to go over the rainbow bridge a month later due to kidney issues and I had to put his old dog Tess down. Bad year - what was good is that for my birthday that year my husband insisted we visit the "pound" and there was Basia - 4 years old, found on the street, skinny and lovable. She gained weight immediately and ran around 15 lbs for the next 6 years - lately she's been very hungry, very lethargic and almost dropping her head into the water bowl. As I suspected, diabetes. Her BG is up and down - averaging about 13 (Canadian) - 220-240 US. At the same time I had an asparagus fern above her perch for the winter and it contracted white mildew - that caused her to have a respiratory problem and seborrhea - for which I am still treating. The vet has her on 1/2 unit every 12 hours. I have had her on it for three days now. First day doesn't count as I don't think I primed the pen. She originally wanted 1 unit every 12 hours but I'm afraid of hypo as I work and only am able to monitor on my four day weekends.

Question: What is the peak of Lantus so that I can do a BG at that time. As well, what are the other best times to do a BG so I can do the curve? Thanks folks...appreciate your kind and supportive help

 

Welcome Bernie and Basia!
No, you're not alone. The people here are very generous with their support and time to help others.
For questions, you should post them on the Main Health forum, as that is where more people will see them.
Best Of Luck to you and your special sweet kitty

 

Welcome to you and Basia! She's a lucky kitty to have you.

Lantus will be at peak action anytime between 5 and 7 hours after the injection is given but that can move around somewhat. A single BG reading in the time frame might or might not capture the nadir (lowest BG due to peak insulin action).

To do a curve at home you test in the AM before you feed and inject then every 2 hours after that up to and including the test in the PM before you feed and inject again. Lantus is dosed twice a day 12 hours apart. Cats metabolize insulin quickly and need two doses a day for 24 hour BG control.

Please post any/all other questions you have on the main health forum.

 

thanks, I can only find "start conversation" not the main health forum for which I have looked....

 

Here's the link to that forum:
http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/forums/feline-health-the-main-forum.28/

 

Welcome!

 

Thank you. I checked with the vet for thyroid problems as well as I understand it can raise blood sugars. Good luck with your progress.