Monitoring of Diabetes Mellitus Using the Flash Glucose Monitoring System: The Owners’ Point of View

Abstract

The flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS) has recently become one of the most common monitoring methods in dogs and cats with diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of FGMS on the quality of life of diabetic pet owners (DPOs). Fifty DPOs were asked to answer a 30-question survey. More than 80% of DPOs considered FGMS easier to use and less stressful and painful for the animal compared to blood glucose curves (BGCs). Overall, 92% of DPOs reported that their pet had better diabetes control since using FGMS. The most challenging aspects of using the FGMS were ensuring proper sensor fixation during the wearing period (47%), preventing premature detachment (40%), and purchasing the sensor (34%). Moreover, 36% of DPOs reported that the device cost was difficult to afford in the long term. Comparing dogs and cats, a significantly higher number of dogs’ owners found the FGMS to be well-tolerated (79% vs. 40%), less invasive than BGCs (79% vs. 43%), and easier to maintain in situ (76% vs. 43%). In conclusion, FGMS is considered by DPOs to be easy to use and less stressful compared to BGCs, while enabling better glycemic control. Nevertheless, the costs related to its long-term use might be difficult to sustain.

Keywords

• continuous glucose monitoring system
• quality of life
• diabetic pet owners
• blood glucose curves
• diabetes mellitus