Check the manufacturer’s recommendations or ask your veterinarian how much to feed your cat.
For example, if your cat normally consumes about 3 fl oz (89 mL) of fluid in a 24 hour period, and its intake has doubled, then this could indicate a problem. Ask your cat’s veterinarian if you are unsure about how much water your cat should be drinking daily.
To get an accurate measurement of your cat’s urine output, use clumping litter and weigh the clumps after scooping them out each day. Keep in mind that your vet may also suggest doing a daily dipstick test on your cat’s urine to make sure there is glucose in its urine and it is safe to administer insulin.
Keep in mind that urine testing is not a reliable way to determine how much insulin to administer. It will only indicate if it is safe to give your cat its normal dose of insulin.
Commercial non-absorbing cat litter Aquarium gravel Styrofoam packing peanuts
Use a litter scoop to move the non-absorbent litter material to the side if it is in your way.
Make sure to put fresh, clean litter into your cat’s box. Do not reuse old litter.
Keep in mind that checking your cat’s blood glucose levels at home may not be necessary if your cat’s blood sugar levels are under control. You can always bring your cat into the veterinarian’s office for routine checks or if something seems off.
For example, if you need to wait until 6 hours after your cat last ate, and your cat last ate at 6:00 am, then wait until 12:00 pm to test.
It is important to keep your cat calm while you take the test, so choose the location that seems less bothersome to your cat.
For example, a blood sugar level of 60 would be considered low. A blood sugar level of 130 is considered high. Be aware that perfect blood sugar will not be possible because you cannot constantly monitor and administer micro doses of insulin to your cat. Your cat’s blood sugar will sometimes fall outside of the normal range and that is okay as long as your cat is healthy otherwise. Talk with your vet if you have concerns.
Your cat may need to stay at the veterinarian’s office all day or overnight. The test requires a blood sample every 1 to 2 hours over an 8, 12, or 24 hour period. The samples provide your veterinarian with more data to help them make a diagnosis.
