Diabetic shots for an old cat w/ kidney trouble

[MJIthewriter]

In this last year, our cat Waldo has fallen apart. We are treating him for hyperthyroidism for about a year now.  Recently his kidneys have started to give way.  I switched his diet to something for kidney health.  He was still not improving, so we scheduled another appointment earlier than the three months they advised to check his levels.

Now he's developed diabetes. His other levels seem to be stable. We're given two options on what type of shots we want to give him. One is designed for cats, but costs a lot more. The other is designed for human but can be used on cats.  I'm not sure what option would be better.  I'm also left with a decision, if this doesn't work how long I should give it before deciding to let him go.

[zodiacqueen]

It sounds like the insulin shots are working, which is awesome!  And, maybe some of his kidney function will improve?  Not sure if it's possible, but it's worth calling and asking the vet about this!  But, it sounds like Waldo is really feeling better, thanks to your devotion and being a good, responsible pet owner.  I sure wish more of them visited this forum!  =(

[MJIthewriter]

So far, I still think he drinks a lot of water and may still pee a lot. He's back to sleeping on my grandma's chair, which is something he usually does, but was doing less these last few weeks. At his worst, Waldo didn't seem to want to jump or climb. He just stayed on the floor spread out on his side looking like roadkill unless there was something he really wanted on the table.  I was at work most of the day these last three days, so I can't say much about his energy. When I come home he is usually laying around.  To see him up on grandma's chair was nice though. Much better than looking like roadkill on the floor.

[Jade59]

Hey MJ,

So how's Waldo doing here at 9 days post treatment?

And btw, honey, I care :)

[Maddie6]

That is so cute to hear how Waldo looks forward to the shot!  They really don't feel a thing with the shot going thru the scruff.  They do like the reward, too.

[MJIthewriter]

To Waldo the shot is a treat. No seriously, he meows at me like crazy when I get the shot set up.  I just have to laugh wondering how many people are afraid of shots and would have the opposite reaction to this cat.

That said we do usually give him a little something, either a little bit of wet food or some dry, just to keep his enthusiasm up.

[Maddie6]

I'm glad Waldo is okay with the shots.  Maybe you could try giving him a treat after his insulin shot.  How old is Waldo?  You're doing a good job with him.  I know cats do sleep and lay around a lot, and sometimes I wonder if Maggie is okay with so much sleeping, but they are cats!!  :)  It is typical.