Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Is it easy to test a cat?

Well, not always at first, although, ECID (each cat is different). However, most cats adapt well, and are extremely cooperative. I made these two videos on July 4 to show you how Pearl comes to her testing station and gets a blood test.






In the beginning, the key is to warm the ear first with either a sock that has rice in the toe and is heated a few seconds in the microwave, or with Pearl, I used a damp washcloth in a baggie, heated just 13 or so seconds. I always tested it on MY ear to make sure it was not too hot. I had to hold it on the ear a good 20 to 30 seconds. That did the trick. Believe it or not, after a while you do not need this. The ear learns to bleed.

Another good pointer is to provide a firm surface under the ear. I use my finger. I have rarely poked through. When I tried to use the surface of a rice sock, it gave too much. I like using the device but some people prefer to free hand with a lancet. They hold it at a 45 degree angle; somewhat like sewing. For me, I cannot poke fast enough. But whatever works for you. Try both ways.

Like anything, this takes practice, but once you get a routine down, it's about as much trouble as brushing your teeth and takes considerably less time!

8 comments:

Glenn Lewis said...

ECID ... my nondiabetic boycat would definitely come running for the test. However his sister is the one who needs testing and is more likely to have the expectation that it is MY responsibility to get her! The help out there on the web is really useful. Thanks

KIC said...

It is true, some can be resistant, but I helped a woman who had a real fraidy cat who ran and hid. We worked out a desensitization plan. I worried. But she followed it and in a week was testing regularly. I think the key is to think about your cat and how they act and respond and what they like and can't resist and gear it around that. If not, there is always the burrito method of wrapping them, but even those seem to eventually come around. I don't know where I would be without the web! Or rather where Pearl would be. Without guidance of other owners I would truly have been lost.

Anonymous said...

Good words.

CarolAnne said...

THANK YOU SO MUCH! I will be starting home testing within two weeks. You have given me a lot of encouragement with your videos. Owen is a very calm guy, giving insulin twice a day is now routine....after watching the videos, I think I will be ok (with patience, of course!)
God bless you and Pearl!

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