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Owners' perspective on using a continuous glucose monitoring system with their diabetic pet
T Dodig1, L Stammeleer1, T Brkljačić2
1Small Animal Department, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
Objectives:
This study evaluated pet owners' perspectives on the use of FreeStyle Libre® - continuous glucose monitoring system for monitoring their diabetic pet, focusing on the sensor's advantages and disadvantages. It sought to assess owner satisfaction with the sensor's usability, as well as owners' perceived impact on their pet's quality of life and diabetes mellitus control.
Materials And Methods:
An anonymous online survey was retrospectively distributed to 65 diabetic pet owners, with 35 responses received (18 cat and 17 dog owners), resulting in a 53% response rate.
Results:
In owners' opinion, enhanced diabetes control was observed in 77% of patients, with 57% indicating improved pet's quality of life (compared with quality of life at the time of diagnosis). Ninety-one percent would use the sensor again, and 94% would recommend it to other owners. In 63% of the pets, the sensor remained attached for 11 to 14 days. One pet actively removed the sensor, while in 28% of cases, it detached spontaneously. Owners reported a moderate stress level for themselves (mean 4.57 ± 3.58, 0 to 10 scale; 10 = highest stress) when using the sensor. Although the sensor cost was rated as moderately high (mean 7.37 ± 2.157, 0 to 10 scale; 10 = expensive), overall owner satisfaction was high as well (median 8, IQR = 2, 0 to 10 scale; 10 = very satisfied). Thirty-one per cent of owners were often concerned about the glucose readings.
Clinical Significance:
Continuous glucose monitoring system FreeStyle Libre® is a user-friendly tool associated with high owner satisfaction and good performance with the potential to enhance both pet's and owner's quality of life.
