Question
Which insulins are used for dogs, and how do they differ?
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
Insulins mainly differ in how they're made, how you handle them and how long they work. Your vet picks one for your dog and checks how he does on it. There's no single best insulin for every dog. The syringe or pen has to match the insulin you were given, so follow your vet's written instructions rather than another owner's choice.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
Some insulins are suspensions, which are handled differently, so follow the instructions for yours. The name alone won't tell you whether switching is a good idea. That's a question for your vet.
What to write down
- The label on your dispensed product
- The device the clinic confirmed
- What you want a review to improve
What to ask next
Ask why your vet chose this insulin, how they'll check it's working, and what to do if you can't get it. Ask them to show you how to prepare and give it using your own supplies.
Sources
- We are switching insulin types. What should we expect?What to expect when switching insulin
- Can a dog use human or pharmacy insulin?Human or pharmacy insulin for dogs
- Are insulin pens an option for dogs?Whether pens are an option
- Which syringe matches my insulin?Matching the syringe to the insulin
- How should insulin be kept at home?How to keep and handle insulin at home
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.