How to Administer Insulin to a Cat

A diagnosis of diabetes can be stressful for both the cat and its owner. Diabetes is a treatable condition in cats. If an owner is willing to put forth some time and effort in monitoring the cat's condition on a daily basis, a diabetic cat may live many normal, happy and healthy years.



Step1
Take the insulin out of the refrigerator.


Step2
Roll the vial of insulin gently between the palms of your hands. This warms the insulin, which makes the injection less painful for the cat.


Step3
Take the needle guard off of the syringe.


Step4
Turn the vial stopper side down.


Step5
Insert the needle of the syringe into the vial through the rubber stopper.


Step6
Flush any air out of the syringe. Pull the plunger back, draw in some insulin, and then push the plunger back in, allowing the air and insulin out of the needle and back into the vial. Repeat this step twice.


Step7
Extract the prescribed dose of insulin into the syringe from the upside down vial.


Step8
Thump the syringe gently to insure no bubbles are formed in the insulin dose.


Step9
Replace the needle guard over the needle.


Step10
Return the vial of insulin to the refrigerator.

Administer the Insulin


Step1
Place your cat on a table or counter top so you are at the same level.


Step2
Remove the needle guard from the needle.


Step3
Hold the needle with one hand and gently pick up a fold of the cat's skin with the opposite hand. Squeeze and pull the cat's skin away from its body so it forms the shape of a triangle or tent.


Step4
Inject the needle through the cat's skin near the base of the "tent" at about a 45 degree angle and press the plunger with your thumb. Be sure that the needle does not come out the other side of the skin.


Step5
Replace the needle guard and dispose of the needle in a puncture resistant container.


Step6
Reward your cat with a veterinarian-approved treat and a scratch on the head.

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