The use of Lantus (also called glargine) is relatively a new option in cats, but it is a good one. PZI used to be the insulin of choice in cats, but many now argue that Lantus is a better choice. Using Lantus can be a bit tricky though and it is recommended that cats started on Lantus be monitored more closely than would be required with PZI. Cats are more likely to revert back to a non-diabetic state with Lantus, which means that can potentially can develop a life-threateningly low blood glucose and that is why they need to be monitored closer. This change back to a non-diabetic state is a good thing, of course, but often is temporary.

I am less concerned with the fact that your vet didn't know about using lantus (no one can keep up with absolutely everything new in veterinary medicine) and more concerned about what you perceived as his attitude when your husband asked questions about that as an option. If your vet's response to your husband's questions were "Well, I'm not famliar with use of that product in cats, but let me do a little research and see what I find out" or if he researched it and decided it wasn't appropriate in your case, I would have no problem with it. But the fact that he just seemed to dismiss that as an option without knowing anything about is what concerns me. Diabetes is a complicated disease process and it is VERY important that there is good communication between the pet owners and their vets. You can probably appreciate this fact since your husband is diabetic. How comfortable are you going to be in asking questions - if you feel you are getting the brush off or feel that you are "bothering" him with your questions, I think I would consider going somewhere else. Call around to other clinics - tell them your cat was recently diagnosed with diabetes and you want to talk to someone who has had experience using lantus in cats and see what happens.

Please let me know if you need additional information.