How To Choose Insulin Pen Needles For Dogs and Cats

Insulin pens are a popular and convenient method for giving insulin to dogs and cats with diabetes. Insulin pens are a device that holds multiple doses of insulin inside of a chamber and can be reused. The bottom end has a numbered dial that is twisted for the desired dose (units) and then pressed down like an ink pen to release the insulin. Pen needles are specifically designed to attach and detach from the top of the pen for each injection. Many dog and cat owners prefer the insulin pens over the traditional method of drawing insulin out of a vial with a needle and syringe because they feel the pens are easier they are easier to handle and get a more accurate dosing. Pen needles are required for giving injections with insulin pens, but they come in different types and it can be tricky to know the difference.

What is the difference between Pen Needles?

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The size of a needle is usually measured by gauge and length. The gauge number (g) describes how thick a needle is. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the needle is. For example, a 32g needle is thinner than a 29g needle. Thinner needles can be more comfortable for injection, while thicker needles are more durable. The length of the pen needle is measured in millimeters or inches and is usually chosen by personal preference and the thickness of the skin of the dog or cat being injected. Your veterinarian can help you decide the best type of pen needle to choose for giving insulin injections. 

The UltiCare Pen Needles come in 29g, 31g, 32g, and 1/2 inch, 5/16 in, and 5/32 inch sizes. They are universal and made to fit most insulin pens. Designed for injection comfort, each pen needle features a triple beveled tip, polished barrel, and silicone lubrication. They come packaged with a dual purpose storage and built-in sharps container so you can safely and easily dispose of the needles after each use.

Have you ever used an insulin pen to help manage your dog or cat’s diabetes?