Lantus, or insulin glargine, is the insulin of choice for many veterinarians treating diabetic cats. When used correctly in combination with a high-protein, low-carbohydrate, all-wet food diet, studies show it provides the best chance for diabetic cats to go into remission.
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Handle With Care
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Lantus is a fragile insulin and must be handled carefully. Refrigerate open vials at the correct temperature. Never shake vials or cartridges, and do not dilute Lantus or mix it with other insulins.
Give Twice a Day
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In humans, Lantus is approved for use once a day. Cats, however, do better with two injections daily, spaced 12 hours apart.
Start Low
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Start with a low dose, and work your way up in quarter- or half-unit increments until your cat is at the correct dose.
Time Release
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Lantus is a time-release insulin and needs to build up in the cat's body before it begins lowering blood glucose levels. It can take several injections for a new dose to take effect.
Long Acting
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A long-acting insulin, Lantus can keep cats regulated (in nondiabetic range) for up to 12 hours.
Home Testing
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Learning to do blood tests at home will help you understand how your cat's body uses Lantus so you and your veterinarian can make informed decisions about the cat's dose.
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