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How to time feeding a diabetic cat around insulin injections?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 19 lbs

How necessary is it to feed the cat and wait half an hour before giving the injection? And how long should you wait before letting her eat after the injection?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on December 27th, 2017

Based upon the context of your question, I'm assuming that you are inquiring about the timing of insulin injections in a diabetic cat. If this is the case, yes, it is best to feed Kitty and then wait half an hour before giving her a dose of insulin. The reason for this is that eating food increases the blood glucose (sugar) level shortly after eating. Insulin then forces the glucose into the cells so that her body is able to use this glucose as an appropriate energy source. Diabetic animals should be fed twice daily half an hour before each dose of insulin. Food or treats throughout the day should be avoided since they will cause random spikes in the blood glucose. I hope this helps to address your questions about Kitty! If this does not answer your questions, feel free to post another question or request a consultation for more in depth follow up.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 25th, 2018

    It is recommended to feed diabetics twice a day right before the insulin is given. I would recommend against leaving food out since it won't help regulate his glucose. I would try a little wet food when you feed Bella meals. She may want to eat more of that instead of dry food at that time. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 14th, 2019

    Its very important that she eats a good amount before the insulin injection, otherwise she could get low blood sugar. Most people leave the dry food out at all times and then offer the canned food when it's time for the injections. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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