Giving Insulin Injections & Home Testing: A Caregiver’s Guide
Managing feline diabetes can feel intimidating at first—especially when it comes to giving injections or testing blood sugar. The good news? With preparation, routine, and some helpful tricks, these daily tasks become second nature.
Supplies for Injections
- Syringes: Use the type that matches your insulin (U100 for Lantus/Glargine, U40 for ProZinc/Vetsulin).
- Half-unit markings are ideal for dosing accuracy.
- Needle lengths vary (6mm, 8mm, or 12.7mm)—choose what’s most comfortable for you and your cat.
- Needle gauge: The higher the number, the thinner the needle (e.g., 31g is thinner than 29g). Many cats barely notice a 31g needle.
- Always use a new syringe for each injection—reusing dulls the needle and increases the risk of infection.
Before the Shot
- Create a calm routine—offer a treat, a quick petting session, or gentle brushing.
- Keep the syringe out of sight at first if your cat is sensitive to the process.
- Position matters: Sit beside your cat or have them elevated—never hover over them.
- Stay relaxed. Your calm demeanor helps your cat stay calm too.
Injection Tips
- Skin tenting: Pinch a fold of skin, usually near the shoulders or flank. This gives a clear injection site and numbs slightly.
- Injection site: Avoid the scruff, which has poor blood flow. Flank, side of the belly, or even upper legs work well.
- Angle: Hold the needle at a shallow angle, nearly parallel to the spine, and insert with the bevel (angled cut) facing up.
- Smooth motion: Quick puncture, then slow, steady push.
Home Blood Glucose Testing (Hometesting)
Why it's important: Testing helps prevent dangerous drops in blood sugar and ensures your cat is getting the right dose.
Testing Basics
- Warm the ear with a rice sock or warm cloth in plastic to help blood flow.
- Use a lancet—start with 28g or 29g and move to finer ones (31g+) as the ear “learns to bleed.”
- Aim for the edge of the ear, not the central vein.
- Always use a fresh lancet for best results and comfort.
Ear Care
- Apply a cool, damp cloth after testing to minimize bruising.
- Avoid products with polymyxin (like some Neosporin formulations), which can be toxic to cats.
- Natural remedies like Ledum 30C (in diluted form) may help with healing.
Practice Makes Confident
New to giving shots? Try using a syringe with water and practicing on a soft item like an orange. It helps you learn pressure and technique before involving your cat.
Pro Tips for Success
- Consistent timing: Stick to a schedule for both meals and injections.
- Use the bevel-up rule: The needle will glide in more easily.
- Avoid fur shots: Brush aside hair to find skin, especially with long-haired cats.
- Back-up tools: Always have extra syringes, test strips, and even a second meter on hand.
Injection Site Rotation Example
If your cat tolerates multiple locations:
- AM: Left scruff → flank → chest → belly
- PM: Right side, same rotation
If limited to one area (like the scruff), vary the exact spot daily to prevent issues.
Helpful Videos
- Coming soon - if you have a video to share we would be happy to feature it here!
Final Thoughts
What feels overwhelming today will soon become routine. Be patient with yourself and your cat, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Many members have been in your shoes—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
- Tim
Change Log:
Created on 5/18/2025. Next improvement is to add pictures and videos.
Sources:
Marje and Gracie. "Testing and Shooting Tips." Feline Diabetes Message Board, 15 Dec. 2012, Info - TESTING AND SHOOTING TIPS | Feline Diabetes Message Board - FDMB.
Hodgkins, Elizabeth M. Giving Injections. FelineDiabetes.com, How to Give Injections to Cats. Accessed 18 May 2025.
Sienne and Gabby (GA). "How to 'Shoot' Your Cat." Feline Diabetes Message Board, 26 May 2024, How to "Shoot" Your Cat | Feline Diabetes Message Board - FDMB.