If my cat is fasting before surgery, should I skip is insulin dose?

Thanks for your question! Managing insulin for your cat before surgery is an important step, and it’s great that you’re being proactive about it. Generally, if your cat is fasting, it’s usually advised to adjust or skip their insulin dose to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Insulin lowers blood sugar, and without food intake, your cat’s blood sugar might drop too low, leading to lethargy, weakness, or even seizures.



However, the exact action to take can depend on several factors, including your cat’s usual blood sugar levels and overall health. Here’s a safe approach: Monitor your cat’s blood sugar levels closely before the surgery, if possible. You can do this using a home blood glucose monitor, if you have one.



If you notice signs like shakiness, increased hunger, unusual tiredness, or strange behavior, these could indicate low blood sugar, and you might need to administer a small amount of a sugar-containing substance (like honey) and contact your vet immediately.



Since each situation can be unique, I’d recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We can help tailor guidance based on your pet's specific needs.