What Happens if Canine Insulin Is Given Too Early?

When hyperglycemic cats receive canine insulin to adjust their glucose levels, the insulin amount, interval and application instructions are crucial. Giving an injection too early can create hypoglycemia in your cat, which can be more dangerous than skipping an injection. It is important to adhere to your veterinarian̵7;s instructions, schedule and dosage for each injection. If you suspect your cat is becoming hypoglycemic -- because the shots are being administered too early, for instance -- monitor closely for signs of hypoglycemia and call your vet.

  1. Excessive Hunger

    • Administering two insulin injections too closely together in time can increase the blood sugar level in your cat too quickly. The added glucose will make your cat think it is hungry even if it has already eaten the correct amount for the time being. Follow your vet;s advice on meal sizes and feeding times for your cat.

    Lethargy and Sleepiness

    • You may notice your cat acting lethargic and sleeping if it has been given too much insulin. The additional glucose makes a cat very tired instead of active. The cat may not want to do any physical activities and will want to nap, but having twitching episodes.

    Stumbling

    • Overdosing of insulin can make your cat dizzy. When he wakes from a nap, he may have trouble walking. It will be obvious; he will be off-balance, walking crooked and stumbling.

    Convulsions

    • Severe cases of hypoglycemia can lead to convulsions and coma, which can result in death.

    Tips

    • Keep a chart with the days and times that insulin shots are due. Try to give your cat his shot every day at the same time, if dosage is required once daily, or 12 hours apart if insulin dosage is required twice daily. Check off the day and times as a hedge against giving a second injection on accident.