I guess I should still do the urine test, if only for peace of mind. Maybe she's absolutely fine, just has a tendency to eye problems for some other reason.
Even if she does, I wonder if diet alone could head it off for the moment. Sounds like basically kitty Atkins can help. I'd far rather spend a bit more for high quality high protein food than deal with needles. I couldn't deal with that.
OK - Do what you think you ~need~ to do now... The thing about money is that it is temporary, you'll make more ;~D
I wouldn't do insulin either for any of my animals...
The damage to the relationship from treating pets, if it is temporary, we can handle... Logan feared me during his ear infections, Bay avoided me when he needed nasty tasting medicine every day a while back. But they get over it when you stop ~abusing~ them that way. I don't know how you'd treat a cat with ongoing and permanent insulin shots (even if you had the skill and stomach for it) without destroying the affection they have for you, which honestly, is the reason we have pets. I'd think they'd just end up hating you and hiding under the bed.
Rosie, I'm sorry to hear about your kitty. A higher quality cat food would be good and you may want to consider a supplement that increases your cat's auto-immune system. I have had Louise (our 15 1/2 yo cat) on "Life Exxtension" for about a year, and her blood work this year was much better than it was last year. It improved her attitude and general interest in her surroundings.
Life Exxtension is put out by Solid Gold, a manufacturer of holistic pet foods and products.
It is expensive but you only use 1/4 teaspoon/day, so it will last a long time. It is sold at health food stores that sell pet products so it would probably be easier to find after you relocate.