My diabetic cat's blood sugar is 36 after insulin. Is this too low?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 15 lbs
My cat has been diagnosed with diabetes. We have been giving him 1 unit in insulin every 12 hours per the vet orders. We were told to get a human glucose tester and test home 1 time a week as we regulate him. We tested tonight and he was at 63 fasting. We opted to not give him a shot before eating and tested about 45 mins after he ate and it was 36. Is this normal? Everything I have read says he should be between 60- 120..
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 13th, 2017
Hi, I'm Dr. Johnson. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A blood sugar of 36 is too low. Do not give Gir insulin. Continue to feed him small meals and put some Karosyrup on his gums. Call your Veterinarian in the morning to discuss what they would like to change. Signs of low blood sugar are: salivating, crying, staggering, vomiting, increased respiratory rate, seizures, and or twitching. If you observe any of these things seek immediate veterinary care. I wish Gir the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 12th, 2017
Poor guy! This could be a number of things when dealing with diabetes. However, given the clinical symptoms you are describing, it could mean that he is receiving too much insulin and his blood glucose may be too low. This seems more likely though sometimes they can also get quite sick from receiving too little insulin and developing a condition called diabetes ketoacidosis. I highly recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible to figure out what is going on so that we can figure out how to help him. In the meantime, you may put a small amount of syrup or even honey in his gums while you wait to have him evaluated. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 28th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I suspect 1 unit is not enough insulin to bring his sugar level down. DO NOT CHANGE HIS DOSE! Please speak to the veterinarian in charge of Shadow's case. They can discuss what the plan is. It depends on his weight, the type of insulin he is on, how often he is receiving it, how long he has been on it, and what he is eating. Insulin doses should only be changed by his veterinarian. Please call them with the results and to discuss the next step. Thanks and kisses to Shadow!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 20th, 2019
It is possibly that the dose is too high and, considering the current level of glucose concentration, I would not give him any insulin this am. Ideally dose should be revised by your local veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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