Question
Glucose stays high even on insulin. Why?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
High readings on insulin are common, and your vet can help find out why. Never give extra insulin on your own. Storage, the injection itself, food, an infection or another illness can all play a part. Bring your readings and notes on how he seems. If he is vomiting, not eating or very weak, call your vet right away.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
A high number doesn't tell you why it's high. The vet may first check your supplies and watch you do the routine, then decide if more tests are needed. That's routine, and it doesn't mean they think you've done anything wrong.
What to write down
- Reading times and the meter used
- Meals, thirst, weight and energy
- Storage concerns, missed treatment or possible injection problems
What to ask next
Ask what happens next and which signs mean you should call straight away. Take the insulin, syringes or pen and your notebook if they ask. If you're not sure an injection went in, don't give another one to be safe. Call the vet instead.
Sources
- What is the Somogyi rebound, and could my dog have it?The Somogyi rebound question
- How should insulin be kept at home?How insulin should be kept at home
- Should I pull back the plunger, and how fast do I inject?Injection technique questions
- What insulin amount should I give my diabetic dog?Why the amount comes from your vet
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowWhat to do if he is vomiting or very weak
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
We are switching insulin types. What should we expect?
Get the new plan in writing before the first injection of the new insulin.
Q&A
My meter shows a number. What should I do?
Write down the number, the time and how he seems. Your vet is the one to say if it's good or bad.
Q&A
How should insulin be kept at home?
Follow what it says on the box. Keep it in the fridge, never frozen, and never in a hot car.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.