Cat Diagnosed Diabetic

Lantus is expensive compared to other types of insulin, but it often ends up being the most effective, sometimes only needing 1 injection per day instead of 2...you can talk to your vet about cheaper insulin, but if it ends up not working as well, or you need to give more of it, it may not be worth it or save you as much money as you think. We tend to have the best chance of success if cats are fed a high-protein diet (all canned, with no grains or starches, if possible) plus Lantus, and then sometimes the amount of insulin needed can be reduced, or even not given at all. Some cats can be put into "remission" and may (at least temporarily) not be diabetic and not need insulin.

$90 or $152 may seem like a lot, but that's over 2 months - figure $ 1.50 to $2.50 per day. Also keep in mind that until they are well "regulated", Kitty will need to be going back to the vet for follow-up visits, blood and urine tests, etc. If costs are a concern, look into applying for Care Credit - it can be used for veterinary, as well as other medical expenses, and may help with spreading the cost out and making it more affordable. Budget accordingly. Also, sometimes other pharmacies have cheaper prices - i.e. Costco.

My beloved kitty also used lantus. We purchased it from Rite Aid after checking with a couple of pharmacies. With the blessing of our vet we used the vial for 3-4 months after opening. We kept it refrigerated. It is important that you do not shake the insulin to mix it. We also fed kitty w/d prescription diet food which can be purchased at the vet. I know it can be expensive but I believe strongly that it is part of responsible pet ownership and part of the obligation we take on when we make them part of the family. Good luck to you and your kitty.

Walgreens has pet insurance and medications/prescriptions too and for pet diabetes.
http://www.walgreens.com/topic/promotion/petrx.jsp

This is one of those moments where I wish there was a "tagging" option on here like on facebook. DVMMOM, we need you! :)

I just tried to glance on 1800petmeds.com and they don't appear to carry that particular insulin, so no luck with that option. They do have other types, though, so if your vet gives you a different insulin option, it would be something to look at.

Also, I just accidentally found this site, I don't know if it's legitimate or not, but it's a thought. http://rxreliefcard.com/savings?search[name]=LANTUS&u...

Also, I stumbled onto what would be a VERY useful link for you!! http://www.catster.com/forums/Cat_Health/thread/576062

You can ask your vet if he will prescribe either Novolin or Humulin insulin. Not sure if they still have it but Walmart had a brand of insulin called Reli-On insulin. Lantus is a newer type of insulin so it is very expensive no matter where you get it from.

Regular insulin is way cheaper, usually less than $20 a vial. Lantus is slow-release. Definitely talk to your DVM about options!

There are other types of insulin that can be used if the Lantus is not an option. You can ask your DVM.

talk to your local pharmacist..ask what insulins are cheaper.. most insulin in the US is human... but there used to be cheaper pork or beef insulin.. I am not sure if you can still by the pork or beef insulin in this country. but it was cheaper... lots cheaper..tell the vet you cannot afford the drug.. ask if they can prescribe a cheaper insulin.

Some cats will also reverse after being diabetic if a certain type of insulin is used, but there are options sometimes. It can be expensive. For some cats the diabetic food can help. I'm sure your vet picked the best fit, but will talk to you about other options including follow up bloodwork. One vet I worked with allowed clients to so glucose curves at home, others preferred the pet to come in for a day ie just did spot checks. I so know many insulins are expensive from the company, I know we only marked up a bottle by our prescription filling fee, so about $5-8. Good luck and hope you can work something out with your vet.