Flash glucose monitoring in diabetic dogs: a feasible method for evaluating glycemic control

To alleviate clinical signs and avoid life-threatening complications in dogs with diabetes mellitus, individualized treatment plans and frequent reassessments are necessary. Performing blood glucose profiles every 7-14 days following insulin adjustments and monthly thereafter, is recommended. In 2016, a factory calibrated continuous blood glucose monitoring system was presented as a possible alternative to glucometer readings. The objectives of this study were to summarize the experiences with this new technology and to show, that in combination with simple rules, already the first measurement period can improve glycemic control.

The electronic database of the endocrine unit of the clinic was retrospectively searched for diabetic dogs with flash glucose monitoring. In case of repeated sensor implantations, only the first sensor was considered. The recordings of day A (starting at midnight after sensor placement) were compared to the measurements of day B (day before sensor failure) and all owners were contacted to fill in a standardized questionnaire.

The final study population consisted of 24 dogs weighing 3.4 to 36 kg. Although the clicking noise during sensor placement irritated most dogs, the application was considered easy and painless. Waiting for disinfectant evaporation and fixation of the sensor disc with forceps helped to avoid sensor detachment when removing the application device. Although transient mild to moderate skin irritations were observed in 80 % of the dogs, 95 % of the owners were highly satisfied with this new monitoring technology. Mean and maximum glucose (p = 0.043, p = 0.003) as well as glucose readings ≥ 11.1 mmol/l (p = 0.032) decreased from day A to B, whereas markers of glycemic variability did not change.

Flash glucose monitoring is a feasible, safe method with high user satisfaction and offers a possibility to improve glycemic control in diabetic dogs.