# Insulin Glargine for Cats: Feline Diabetes Dose and Glucose Curve


## Key Takeaways

- Insulin glargine, a long-acting basal insulin, is a first-line treatment for feline diabetes mellitus, aiming to mimic the steady insulin release of a healthy pancreas. The typical starting dose is 0.5 U/kg subcutaneously every 12 hours, requiring individualization based on glucose curves.
- Insulin glargine U300 demonstrates a flatter, more predictable time-action profile with less within-day variability compared to U100, making it a closer approximation of an ideal basal insulin for cats.
- A glucose curve, involving regular blood glucose measurements over 12-24 hours, is the cornerstone for assessing insulin efficacy, determining the nadir (target range 5.6-11.1 mmol/L or 100-200 mg/dL), and evaluating duration of action to guide dose adjustments.
- Diabetic remission, defined as sustained normal blood glucose without insulin, is an achievable goal in a significant proportion of cats, with reported rates of 25-47% with glargine therapy, particularly in newly diagnosed individuals.
- Monitoring clinical signs (polyuria, polydipsia, appetite, lethargy, weight), serum fructosamine levels, and potentially utilizing flash glucose monitoring systems are crucial for assessing long-term glycemic control beyond individual glucose curves.
- Concurrent diseases such as hypersomatotropism (acromegaly) and hyperadrenocorticism can significantly impact insulin requirements and the likelihood of remission, necessitating their diagnosis and management for optimal glycemic control.

---

If your [cat](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/cat) has just been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, your veterinarian may recommend insulin glargine (Lantus or a biosimilar). This long-acting basal insulin is a first-line choice for many feline diabetics because it mimics the steady, low-level insulin release that a healthy pancreas provides between meals. The starting dose is typically 0.5 U/kg (about 1 to 2 units per cat) injected subcutaneously every 12 hours, but the exact dose must be individualized. The only reliable way to determine if the dose is correct is to perform a glucose curve, which measures blood glucose levels at regular intervals over 12 to 24 hours. This article explains the science behind glargine, how to interpret a glucose curve, and what to expect during the first weeks of treatment.

**Owner Triage Summary:** If your cat is lethargic, vomiting, or breathing abnormally, or if you suspect hypoglycemia (weakness, disorientation, seizures), treat as an emergency and contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not give insulin to a cat that is not eating. For a new diabetes diagnosis, schedule a veterinary consultation within 24 hours; do not attempt to dose insulin without professional guidance.

## At a Glance: Insulin Glargine for Cats

| Feature | Insulin Glargine U100 | Insulin Glargine U300 |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **Concentration** | 100 U/mL | 300 U/mL |
| **Typical starting dose** | 0.5 U/kg SC q12h [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] | 0.5 U/kg SC q12h [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] |
| **Duration of action (healthy cats)** | ~13.4 hours [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] | ~16.8 hours [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] |
| **Time-action profile** | Peak effect with some variability [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] | Flatter, more predictable action [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] |
| **Key advantage** | Widely used, established protocols | Better basal profile, less within-day variability [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] |
| **Remission potential** | Reported in 25% to 47% of cats in various studies [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>][<a href="#ref-4">4</a>] | Reported in newly diagnosed cats [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] |

## Understanding Feline Diabetes and the Role of Basal Insulin

Diabetes mellitus in cats is a common endocrinopathy, affecting approximately 1 in 200 cats [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. The vast majority of feline diabetics have type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by a combination of peripheral insulin resistance and progressive loss of insulin production from pancreatic beta cells [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. This is different from type 1 diabetes in humans, where the immune system destroys beta cells entirely. Because many cats retain some residual beta cell function, achieving diabetic remission is a realistic goal, especially with prompt and aggressive treatment [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].

The goal of insulin therapy in cats is not merely to lower blood glucose, but to provide consistent, near-normal glycemic control that minimizes the toxic effects of chronic hyperglycemia. In cats with residual beta cell function, administering only a basal insulin can lead to complete normalization of blood glucose concentrations [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>]. Basal insulin requirements are constant throughout the day, meaning the ideal insulin formulation should have a steady, "flat" time-action profile with no pronounced peaks or troughs [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>].

Insulin glargine is a synthetic human-recombinant insulin analog designed for this purpose. It is a basal insulin, meaning it provides a slow, steady release of insulin to manage glucose production between meals. At present, insulin glargine U300 is considered the formulation that most closely approaches the definition of an ideal basal insulin in cats [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>].

## Insulin Glargine Formulations: U100 vs. U300

Insulin glargine is available in two concentrations: U100 (100 U/mL) and U300 (300 U/mL). The "U" number refers to the concentration of insulin in the solution. Both are used in feline medicine, but they are not identical.

Pharmacodynamic studies in healthy cats have compared the two formulations. One study found that while both have a similar onset of action, the U300 formulation has a flatter time-action profile than U100, as demonstrated by a lower peak effect (5.6 ± 1.1 mg/kg/min vs 8.3 ± 1.9 mg/kg/min) [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. There was no difference in the total metabolic effect or the overall duration of action (16.8 hours for U300 vs 13.4 hours for U100) [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. However, a greater fraction of the metabolic effect of U300 occurs in the 12- to 24-hour period post-injection, and it has lower within-day variability [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. This means U300 provides a more consistent, predictable glucose-lowering effect over a full 12-hour dosing interval, which is clinically desirable.

The U300 formulation has also been evaluated in a prospective clinical trial of client-owned diabetic cats. In this study, cats were started on 0.5 U/kg of glargine U300 twice daily [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. The study reported that 8/9 (88%) of cats showed improvement or resolution of polyuria and polydipsia, and 2 cats achieved remission within the 8-week study period, with 2 more achieving remission shortly after [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. This suggests that U300 is both safe and effective for managing feline diabetes.

## Initial Dosing: Where to Start

The starting dose of insulin glargine for a newly diagnosed diabetic cat is generally 0.5 U/kg administered subcutaneously every 12 hours [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. This is a conservative starting point designed to avoid hypoglycemia while beginning to address hyperglycemia. For most cats, this translates to 1 to 2 units per injection. The dose is then adjusted based on the results of glucose curves.

It is critical to understand that the dose of insulin is not static. It must be titrated based on the individual cat's response. In a study using a low-cost, home-monitoring protocol, clients adjusted the insulin dose based on pre-insulin blood glucose measurements, aiming to maintain glucose in the range of 6.5 to 11.9 mmol/L (117 to 214 mg/dL) [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. This approach demonstrates that with proper training, owners can successfully manage their cat's diabetes with a moderate-intensity protocol.

**Important Note:** Never change your cat's insulin dose without consulting your veterinarian. Adjusting the dose based on a single blood glucose reading can be dangerous and may lead to hypoglycemia.

## The Glucose Curve: The Cornerstone of Dose Adjustment

A glucose curve is a series of blood glucose measurements taken over a period of time, typically 12 to 24 hours, to evaluate the body's response to an insulin injection. It is the most informative tool for assessing the effectiveness and safety of an insulin protocol. The curve reveals the nadir (the lowest glucose point), the duration of insulin action, and the peak effect, all of which guide dose adjustments.

### How to Perform a Glucose Curve

Glucose curves can be performed in the veterinary clinic or at home. Home monitoring is increasingly preferred because it reduces stress for the cat, which can artificially elevate blood glucose (stress hyperglycemia), and it is more convenient for the owner.

1.  **Timing:** The first measurement is taken immediately before the morning insulin injection. This is the "pre-insulin" or "fasting" glucose.
2.  **Injection:** Administer the insulin as directed.
3.  **Feeding:** Offer the meal immediately after the injection.
4.  **Sampling:** Measure blood glucose every 2 hours for the next 12 hours (or longer, up to 24 hours, if a longer-acting insulin is used). This includes measuring glucose at the time of the evening meal and injection.
5.  **Recording:** Record all values and the time of each measurement.

### Interpreting the Curve

A veterinarian will interpret the curve to make dose adjustments. Key parameters include:

- **Glucose Nadir:** This is the lowest blood glucose value on the curve. The goal is to have the nadir in a safe range, typically between 5.6 and 11.1 mmol/L (100 to 200 mg/dL). If the nadir is below 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL), the dose is too high and should be reduced to prevent hypoglycemia. If the nadir is above 16.7 mmol/L (300 mg/dL), the dose is likely too low.
- **Duration of Action:** The goal is for the insulin's effect to last the full 12 hours until the next dose. If blood glucose begins to rise significantly before the next injection (e.g., after 8 hours), the duration of action is too short, and a higher dose or a different insulin type may be needed. If the glucose remains low for the entire 12 hours, the duration of action may be too long, or the dose may be too high.
- **Glucose Range:** The difference between the highest and lowest glucose readings. A large range indicates significant glycemic variability, which can be a sign of an unstable patient or an inappropriate insulin type.

### Dose Adjustments Based on the Curve

Dose adjustments are typically made in increments of 0.5 to 1 unit per injection. The general principles are:

- **If the nadir is low (< 5.6 mmol/L or 100 mg/dL):** Reduce the dose by 10% to 25% to prevent hypoglycemia.
- **If the nadir is high (> 16.7 mmol/L or 300 mg/dL):** Increase the dose by 10% to 25%, but only if the duration of action is adequate. If the glucose is high but dropping too quickly, a dose increase may not be appropriate.
- **If the duration of action is too short:** The dose may need to be increased, or the veterinarian may consider switching to a longer-acting insulin.

The goal of dose adjustment is to maintain pre-insulin blood glucose in the range of 6.5 to 11.9 mmol/L (117 to 214 mg/dL) [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. This moderate-intensity protocol has been shown to achieve remission in 47% of cats [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>].

## Monitoring Beyond the Glucose Curve

While the glucose curve is the primary tool for dose adjustment, other parameters are used to assess overall glycemic control.

### Clinical Signs

The resolution of clinical signs is a key indicator of successful treatment. Owners should monitor for improvements in:
- **Polyuria and Polydipsia (PU/PD):** Reduced drinking and urination are often the first signs of improvement.
- **Polyphagia:** The cat's appetite should return to normal.
- **Weight:** Weight should stabilize or increase if the cat was losing weight.
- **Lethargy:** The cat should become more active and have a better demeanor.

In the clinical trial of glargine U300, improvement or resolution of these clinical signs was reported in 77% to 88% of cats [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

### Serum Fructosamine

Serum fructosamine is a measure of the average blood glucose concentration over the previous 1 to 3 weeks. It is a useful tool for assessing long-term glycemic control and is less affected by stress than a single blood glucose reading. Fructosamine is measured in-clinic and is often used in conjunction with glucose curves. In one study, median serum fructosamine concentrations decreased significantly over the course of treatment with glargine U300 [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. A normal fructosamine concentration (typically < 350 to 400 µmol/L, depending on the laboratory) indicates good glycemic control.

### Flash Glucose Monitoring

Flash glucose monitoring systems (e.g., FreeStyle Libre) are a newer, noninvasive technology that can be used in cats [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>]. A small sensor is placed on the skin, and it measures interstitial glucose concentrations continuously. This allows for a more detailed assessment of glycemic variability without the need for repeated blood sampling. This technology is increasingly used in veterinary medicine to manage challenging cases and to assess the time-action profile of insulin [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].

## Diabetic Remission: The Goal of Therapy

Diabetic remission is defined as the sustained normalization of blood glucose without the need for exogenous insulin. It is an attainable goal in a significant proportion of newly diagnosed diabetic cats [<a href="#ref-5">5</a>]. The likelihood of remission is higher in cats that are newly diagnosed, have good glycemic control early in the course of the disease, and are fed a low-carbohydrate diet.

Studies with insulin glargine have reported remission rates of 25% to 47% [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>][<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. In the glargine U300 study, all cats that achieved remission were newly diagnosed diabetics [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Another study reported that cats treated with a combination of exenatide (a GLP-1 agonist) and insulin had a 25% remission rate, compared to 0% with placebo and insulin [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>]. The average change in daily insulin dose was significant, with cats on exenatide requiring less insulin [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].

**How to Recognize Remission:** If a cat's blood glucose consistently remains in the normal range (e.g., nadir < 8.3 mmol/L or 150 mg/dL) on a low insulin dose (e.g., 0.5 U/kg or less), the veterinarian may recommend a trial of insulin withdrawal. This should only be done under veterinary supervision. In a case report, a cat achieved remission and was able to discontinue insulin 12 days after initial presentation, with no hyperglycemia observed for 28 days [<a href="#ref-8">8</a>].

**Risk of Relapse:** Remission is not always permanent. In one study, 40% of cats that achieved remission eventually relapsed [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. This highlights the need for continued monitoring, including periodic glucose curves and fructosamine measurements, even after remission is achieved.

## Insulin Glargine in Special Situations

### Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Insulin glargine is not typically used as the sole treatment for the initial stabilization of a cat with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA requires rapid-acting insulin (e.g., regular insulin) to quickly resolve ketonemia and acidosis. However, glargine can be used as part of a "basal-bolus" protocol.

A prospective randomized clinical trial compared a continuous rate infusion (CRI) of regular insulin to a protocol using subcutaneous glargine and intramuscular regular insulin in cats with DKA [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>]. The study found that the glargine group had a shorter median time to resolution of ketonemia (30 hours vs 42 hours) and a shorter time to resolution of acidosis [<a href="#ref-9">9</a>]. Another pilot study also found that an intermittent approach using glargine and regular insulin resulted in significantly shorter times to resolution of hyperglycemia, ketonemia, and acidosis, as well as a shorter duration of hospitalization compared to a CRI protocol [<a href="#ref-10">10</a>]. These findings suggest that a basal-bolus approach with glargine may be a safe and effective alternative for managing DKA, potentially reducing hospital stay.

### Concurrent Diseases

Diabetes mellitus in cats is often complicated by concurrent endocrinopathies. It is essential to screen for these conditions, as they can significantly impact insulin requirements and the likelihood of remission.

- **Hypersomatotropism (Acromegaly):** This condition, caused by a growth hormone-secreting pituitary tumor, leads to severe insulin resistance. In a study of diabetic cats in Switzerland and the Netherlands, 17.8% had IGF-1 concentrations > 1000 ng/ml, suggesting a high prevalence of acromegaly [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>]. These cats typically require very high doses of insulin and are less likely to achieve remission. Management of the underlying acromegaly is essential for glycemic control [<a href="#ref-7">7</a>].
- **Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC, Cushing's Disease):** This condition, caused by excess cortisol, also causes insulin resistance. In one case report, a cat with HAC and diabetes did not improve on glargine insulin until the HAC was treated with trilostane, ultimately leading to diabetic remission [<a href="#ref-12">12</a>]. Another case report described remission after treatment with cabergoline [<a href="#ref-13">13</a>]. In both cases, the diabetes could not be controlled without addressing the underlying HAC.
- **Pancreatitis:** Feline pancreas-specific lipase (fPLI) is often elevated in diabetic cats, indicating concurrent pancreatitis [<a href="#ref-11">11</a>]. This can cause fluctuations in insulin requirements and must be managed appropriately.

## The Role of Diet and Adjunctive Therapies

Insulin is the cornerstone of feline diabetes treatment, but it is most effective when combined with appropriate dietary management and, in some cases, adjunctive therapies.

### Diet

A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet is recommended for diabetic cats. This diet helps to minimize post-prandial glucose spikes and reduce the overall insulin requirement. In the glargine U300 study, all cats were fed a low-carbohydrate diet [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Dietary modification is a critical component of the treatment plan.

### Adjunctive Therapies

- **GLP-1 Agonists:** Drugs like exenatide, which mimic the action of the incretin hormone GLP-1, have been evaluated in cats. A study found that exenatide was well-tolerated and, when combined with insulin, led to a significant reduction in the required insulin dose and a higher rate of remission compared to placebo [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>].
- **SGLT2 Inhibitors:** Drugs like dapagliflozin, which promote glucose excretion in the urine, are being explored in cats. However, their use carries a risk of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA), as reported in a case study of a cat with congenital diabetes [<a href="#ref-14">14</a>]. This cat developed EDKA after two doses of dapagliflozin, highlighting the potential dangers of this class of drugs in cats.
- **Cannabidiol (CBD):** There is limited evidence regarding the use of CBD in feline diabetes. One case report described an 18-year-old cat treated with glargine and a CBD-rich extract, which was associated with improved clinical signs and reduced glycemia [<a href="#ref-15">15</a>]. However, this is a single case report, and CBD should not be considered a standard treatment. More research is needed.
- **Recombinant Feline Interferon-Omega (rFeIFN-ω):** This immunomodulatory drug has been used to manage feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) in diabetic cats, allowing for the avoidance of corticosteroids, which can worsen diabetes. In two case reports, cats with type II DM and FCGS were successfully treated with glargine insulin and oral rFeIFN-ω, achieving remission [<a href="#ref-16">16</a>].

## Insulin Glargine in the Future of Feline Diabetes Care

The management of feline diabetes is evolving. While insulin glargine is a current mainstay, newer technologies and treatments are on the horizon.

- **Ultra-Long-Acting Insulin:** A novel recombinant insulin fused to feline immunoglobulin fragment crystallizable (Fc) has been developed. This fusion protein (AKS-267c) has an ultra-long plasma half-life and can be administered subcutaneously once weekly [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>]. In a pilot study, cats previously controlled on insulin glargine were successfully transitioned to once-weekly injections of AKS-267c, with no significant changes in clinical signs, body weight, or fructosamine concentrations [<a href="#ref-17">17</a>]. This could dramatically improve the quality of life for both cats and owners.
- **Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) Systems:** These systems, which combine a continuous glucose monitor with an insulin pump, have been used successfully in humans with type 1 diabetes. A recent case report describes the use of an AID system in a cat with diabetes [<a href="#ref-18">18</a>]. The system rapidly improved glycemic control, and the cat achieved remission. This technology, while still in its infancy for veterinary use, holds promise for the future.

## Safety and Adverse Effects

The most significant adverse effect of insulin therapy is hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening. Signs of hypoglycemia include weakness, lethargy, ataxia, disorientation, tremors, and seizures. If you suspect hypoglycemia, rub a small amount of corn syrup or honey on your cat's gums and contact your veterinarian immediately.

In the glargine U300 study, the treatment was generally well-tolerated [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. Hypoglycemia was not a major issue, but it is always a risk with any insulin therapy. In a study using a home-monitoring protocol, 16% of cats were hospitalized for hypoglycemia [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. This underscores the importance of careful monitoring and dose adjustment.

Other potential adverse effects include injection site reactions (pain, swelling, or hair loss) and the development of insulin antibodies, although these are less common with glargine.

## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian

This article provides general information about insulin glargine for cats, but it cannot replace individualized veterinary care. The information presented is based on clinical studies and guidelines, but every cat is unique. Breed, age, body condition, and concurrent diseases can all influence how a cat responds to insulin.

**You should contact your veterinarian if:**
- Your cat's blood glucose readings are consistently outside the target range.
- Your cat shows signs of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
- Your cat is not eating or is vomiting.
- Your cat's clinical signs (PU/PD, lethargy) are not improving.
- You have any questions or concerns about your cat's treatment plan.

Breed-level information cannot predict how an individual cat will respond to treatment. For example, while one study noted that Burmese cats had longer survival times [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>], this does not mean that every Burmese cat will have a better outcome than a domestic shorthair. The same applies to the risk of remission or relapse. These are population-level statistics, not individual predictions.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. What is the starting dose of insulin glargine for a cat?
The typical starting dose is 0.5 U/kg (approximately 1 to 2 units per cat) injected subcutaneously every 12 hours [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>]. This dose is then adjusted based on glucose curves.

### 2. How often should I give my cat insulin glargine?
Insulin glargine is typically administered twice daily (every 12 hours) to provide consistent basal insulin coverage [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>][<a href="#ref-5">5</a>].

### 3. What is a glucose curve and why is it needed?
A glucose curve is a series of blood glucose measurements taken over 12 to 24 hours to evaluate the body's response to insulin. It is needed to determine if the insulin dose is correct, how long the insulin lasts, and to prevent hypoglycemia.

### 4. What is the target blood glucose range for a diabetic cat?
The goal is to maintain pre-insulin blood glucose in the range of 6.5 to 11.9 mmol/L (117 to 214 mg/dL) [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. The nadir should ideally be above 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) to avoid hypoglycemia.

### 5. Can my cat go into diabetic remission with insulin glargine?
Yes, remission is possible. Studies have reported remission rates of 25% to 47% in cats treated with glargine [<a href="#ref-3">3</a>][<a href="#ref-4">4</a>]. Remission is more likely in newly diagnosed cats [<a href="#ref-1">1</a>].

### 6. What should I do if my cat's blood glucose drops too low?
If you suspect hypoglycemia (weakness, disorientation, seizures), rub corn syrup or honey on your cat's gums and contact your veterinarian immediately. This is an emergency.

### 7. Is insulin glargine U300 better than U100 for cats?
Pharmacodynamic studies show that U300 has a flatter, more predictable time-action profile with less within-day variability compared to U100 [<a href="#ref-2">2</a>]. It is considered to more closely approach the ideal basal insulin in cats [<a href="#ref-6">6</a>].

### 8. Can I adjust my cat's insulin dose at home?
Dose adjustments should only be made under the guidance of a veterinarian. While home monitoring protocols exist [<a href="#ref-4">4</a>], they require specific training and clear instructions from your vet. Never adjust the dose based on a single blood glucose reading.

## Veterinary Disclaimer

**This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.** Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or another qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

---

<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "FAQPage",
  "mainEntity": [
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the starting dose of insulin glargine for a cat?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "The typical starting dose is 0.5 U/kg (approximately 1 to 2 units per cat) injected subcutaneously every 12 hours. This dose is then adjusted based on glucose curves."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "How often should I give my cat insulin glargine?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Insulin glargine is typically administered twice daily (every 12 hours) to provide consistent basal insulin coverage."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is a glucose curve and why is it needed?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "A glucose curve is a series of blood glucose measurements taken over 12 to 24 hours to evaluate the body's response to insulin. It is needed to determine if the insulin dose is correct, how long the insulin lasts, and to prevent hypoglycemia."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the target blood glucose range for a diabetic cat?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "The goal is to maintain pre-insulin blood glucose in the range of 6.5 to 11.9 mmol/L (117 to 214 mg/dL). The nadir should ideally be above 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) to avoid hypoglycemia."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "Can my cat go into diabetic remission with insulin glargine?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Yes, remission is possible. Studies have reported remission rates of 25% to 47% in cats treated with glargine. Remission is more likely in newly diagnosed cats."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What should I do if my cat's blood glucose drops too low?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "If you suspect hypoglycemia (weakness, disorientation, seizures), rub corn syrup or honey on your cat's gums and contact your veterinarian immediately. This is an emergency."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "Is insulin glargine U300 better than U100 for cats?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Pharmacodynamic studies show that U300 has a flatter, more predictable time-action profile with less within-day variability compared to U100. It is considered to more closely approach the ideal basal insulin in cats."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "Can I adjust my cat's insulin dose at home?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Dose adjustments should only be made under the guidance of a veterinarian. While home monitoring protocols exist, they require specific training and clear instructions from your vet. Never adjust the dose based on a single blood glucose reading."
      }
    }
  ]
}
</script>

## Sources

<a id="ref-1"></a>[<a href="#ref-1">1</a>] [Insulin glargine 300 U/ml for the treatment of feline diabetes mellitus.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34009061/)

<a id="ref-2"></a>[<a href="#ref-2">2</a>] [Comparison of pharmacodynamics between insulin glargine 100 U/mL and insulin glargine 300 U/mL in healthy cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33307335/)

<a id="ref-3"></a>[<a href="#ref-3">3</a>] [Safety and efficacy assessment of a GLP-1 mimetic: insulin glargine combination for treatment of feline diabetes mellitus.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30015124/)

<a id="ref-4"></a>[<a href="#ref-4">4</a>] [Frequency of diabetic remission, predictors of remission and survival in cats using a low-cost, moderate-intensity, home-monitoring protocol and twice-daily glargine.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38661475/)

<a id="ref-5"></a>[<a href="#ref-5">5</a>] [Feline diabetes mellitus: clinical use of long-acting glargine and detemir.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24563492/)

<a id="ref-6"></a>[<a href="#ref-6">6</a>] [Insulin Therapy in Small Animals, Part 2: Cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36906468/)

<a id="ref-7"></a>[<a href="#ref-7">7</a>] [Updates in Feline Diabetes Mellitus and Hypersomatotropism.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32680669/)

<a id="ref-8"></a>[<a href="#ref-8">8</a>] [Remission of diabetes mellitus induced by prednisolone in combination with cyclosporine toxicity in a cat.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39042703/)

<a id="ref-9"></a>[<a href="#ref-9">9</a>] [Glargine versus regular insulin protocol in feline diabetic ketoacidosis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33945208/)

<a id="ref-10"></a>[<a href="#ref-10">10</a>] [A pilot study comparing a protocol using intermittent administration of glargine and regular insulin to a continuous rate infusion of regular insulin in cats with naturally occurring diabetic ketoacidosis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25546713/)

<a id="ref-11"></a>[<a href="#ref-11">11</a>] [Evaluation of insulin-like growth factor-1, total thyroxine, feline pancreas-specific lipase and urinary corticoid-to-creatinine ratio in cats with diabetes mellitus in Switzerland and the Netherlands.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27578200/)

<a id="ref-12"></a>[<a href="#ref-12">12</a>] [Diabetes mellitus remission in a cat with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism after trilostane treatment.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29707227/)

<a id="ref-13"></a>[<a href="#ref-13">13</a>] [Diabetes mellitus remission in a cat with hyperadrenocorticism after cabergoline treatment.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34345435/)

<a id="ref-14"></a>[<a href="#ref-14">14</a>] [Clinical Management of Euglycemic Ketoacidosis in a Cat With Congenital Diabetes Mellitus Treated With Insulin and Dapagliflozin.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40254974/)

<a id="ref-15"></a>[<a href="#ref-15">15</a>] [Use of Cannabidiol-Dominant Extract as Co-Adjuvant Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treatment in Feline: Case Report.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39474238/)

<a id="ref-16"></a>[<a href="#ref-16">16</a>] [The use of oral recombinant feline interferon omega in two cats with type II diabetes mellitus and concurrent feline chronic gingivostomatitis syndrome.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24153100/)

<a id="ref-17"></a>[<a href="#ref-17">17</a>] [An ultra-long-acting recombinant insulin for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34190365/)

<a id="ref-18"></a>[<a href="#ref-18">18</a>] [Use of an automated insulin delivery system in a cat with diabetes mellitus.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41742542/)

<a id="ref-19"></a>[<a href="#ref-19">19</a>] [First Evaluation of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass as a Novel Surgical Treatment for Diabetes and Glucose Metabolism Regulation in Cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41893689/)

<a id="ref-20"></a>[<a href="#ref-20">20</a>] [Comparison of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of insulin degludec and insulin glargine 300 U/mL in healthy cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31280022/)

## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

* [Drontal Plus Dewormer: Broad-Spectrum Dose Guide by Weight](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/drontal-plus-dewormer-broad-spectrum-dose-guide-by-weight)
* [Panacur Fenbendazole Dewormer: Dog Fecal Parasite Treatment Schedule](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/panacur-fenbendazole-dewormer-dog-fecal-parasite-treatment-schedule)
* [Prednisolone for Cats: Feline Safe Steroid Dose and Autoimmune](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/prednisolone-for-cats-feline-safe-steroid-dose-and-autoimmune)