B12 for IBD, weird frequency -- and needle size?

[tanoposc]

Hello,

My vet prescribed injectable B12 for my cat for GI absorption issues. I've seen that the standard protocol is 250 mcg weekly for 6 weeks to start.

He prescribed 500 mcg every 2 weeks instead.

It probably doesn't make a huge difference, but wondering if the reduced frequency matters, like does the B12 injection last 2 weeks until the next one?

Also, since 500 mcg is more liquid, what size needle will be comfortable while still not taking forever to get into the cat? I have 27-gauge needles available for use, but can get a smaller gauge if it will take too long to administer with 27 gauge.

Thanks for any thoughts and advice.

 

[FeebysOwner]

Hi. It is thought that for a heathy cat, their tissue retains the B-12 for almost 2 weeks, but for a cat with gastrointestinal or other health issues, the retention might be a low as 5 days. You might want to ask the vet what their reasoning is behind every other week dosing.

When I first started giving B-12 to Feeby, I was advised to use 25 gauge needles and it went very quickly, but I was also only giving her 0.25ml (250 mcg). She is now on sub-Q fluids, so I administer the B-12 through the y-port on the tubing.

 

[silent meowlook]

Hi. You should be fine with a 27 gage. The next size to try would be a 25 gage.

 

[tanoposc]

Thank you for the replies.