What happens if I miss an insulin shot for my cat?
If you must miss a dose or two of insulin (occasionally), do not be concerned. Your cat’s blood glucose will get too high for a day or two but will not cause great problems. “Genetic and environmental factors contribute to feline diabetes, but weight is a major factor.
Why do I give my Cat PZI insulin?
Many people turn to PZI because their cat exhibits wide swings in blood sugar levels, from 400+ (or more) to sub-100’s, but with extremely variable (unpredictable) readings at all points on the curve. Very often, this is due to giving too much insulin without sufficient testing to see the whole cycle.
What kind of insulin do dogs and cats take?
Protamine zinc insulin (PZI) is a long-acting insulin that is used in the treatment of diabetes, a relatively common disease seen in middle-aged cats and dogs. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Can a dog take protamine zinc insulin PZI?
PZI was recently approved by the FDA for use in cats. When the appropriate form or dose of this drug is not available through a veterinary pharmaceutical manufacturer, it may be compounded by a specialty pharmacy. PZI is also used to treat diabetes in dogs and is considered accepted practice in veterinary medicine.
How often should I give my Cat PZI?
PZI is given by injection under the skin (subcutaneously). In some pets, once a day injections will be sufficient, but other animals, cats in particular, may require an injection every 12 hours. Insulin is most commonly given after a meal. Your veterinarian will help you learn how to inject this drug under the skin.
Many people turn to PZI because their cat exhibits wide swings in blood sugar levels, from 400+ (or more) to sub-100’s, but with extremely variable (unpredictable) readings at all points on the curve. Very often, this is due to giving too much insulin without sufficient testing to see the whole cycle.
What happens if you miss a dose of insulin for a cat?
If your cat does not eat, do not miss a dose of insulin unless the anorexia lasts more than 48 hours. If you must miss a dose or two of insulin (occasionally), do not be concerned. Your cat’s blood glucose will get too high for a day or two but will not cause great problems.
PZI is given by injection under the skin (subcutaneously). In some pets, once a day injections will be sufficient, but other animals, cats in particular, may require an injection every 12 hours. Insulin is most commonly given after a meal. Your veterinarian will help you learn how to inject this drug under the skin.
Can you give PZI to a dog with diabetes?
PZI is also used to treat diabetes in dogs and is considered accepted practice in veterinary medicine. Give this medication to your pet exactly as your veterinarian prescribes. If you miss giving your pet a dose of PZI, give the next dose as soon as you remember or, if it is close to the next scheduled dose, return to the regular schedule.