Monitoring of diabetes – An exciting novel approach!
An exciting and minimally invasive approach to monitoring glucose levels has become available for diabetic cats. In this blog we will describe this novel approach that is now available and has been used successfully in cats.
Traditional Blood Glucose monitoring methods
Normally monitoring glucose levels when treating diabetes involves either performing blood glucose curves or spot glucose tests. This involves pricking the skin over the ear or a foot pad to generate a small blood drop that then can be analysed with a hand held glucometer. This can be done either at home or in the veterinary hospital. Spot glucose samples and glucose curves are collected over time to help determine the ideal insulin dose. Glucose curves are performed by collecting a reading every 2 hours over a 12 to 24 hour period. However studies have shown that glucose levels fluctuate significantly from day to day, which means a more continuous monitoring system would give more valuable information.
Freestyle Libre Flash Glucose monitoring system
How does it work? The Freestyle Libre Flash Glucose monitoring system consists of a sensor that is fitted to the skin and an electronic reader to collect information. This means instead of having to prick the skin to test the blood glucose, the electronic reader is simply passed over the sensor to gather the data. This system is designed for humans, however now has been used in cats with good success. The Freestyle Libre Flash Glucose monitoring system measures interstitial glucose levels, which whilst lagging behind a few minutes, relate closely to blood glucose levels. The monitoring system stores data over the previous up to 8 hours each time the sensor is scanned. Therefore if the sensor is scanned every 8 hours, the glucose readings are stored continuously over the day. Fluctuations in glucose can be tracked much more accurately over a greater period of time to help adjust insulin levels better. Best of all, there is no need for pricking the skin for repeated blood samples, and no hospitalisation is required. Once the sensor is fitted it may stay on and be used for up to 2 weeks. The data generated is stored in the reader and can be analysed by the veterinarian periodically. Your veterinarian will then guide you on how to respond to the glucose level results, and adjust insulin levels as required.
How is the sensor fitted? During the fitting of the sensor a small needle is briefly inserted to place a 5 mm long filament into the tissue just under the skin which performs the measuring. The procedure of placing the sensor is almost completely painless and very rapid. A patch of fur is clipped, the skin is prepared with alcohol and allowed to dry. The sensor is attached with an applicator which involves a small click sound when triggered. The sensor is held in place with an adhesive and a small amount superglue is applied for additional adhesion. Generally no dressings are applied however Fixamull dressing may help for some patients to minimise interest in the sensor. The ideal position for the sensor depends on preference, however usually either the side of the neck or muscles near the back are used. In people the sensor can stay on for up to two weeks. Unfortunately, in cats the sensor does not stick as well to the skin, and their active movement may result in the sensor falling off earlier in a few days. Rolling, rubbing against objects and scratching increases the risk of sensor coming away early. However remember that even two to three days of continual glucose monitoring data is extremely valuable information, and much superior to the traditional 12 hour glucose curve. Most cats will tolerate the sensor well which makes this technique of glucose monitoring an exciting and excellent option for diabetic cats.
How to get the Free Style Libre Flash glucose monitoring system fitted?
Please contact us at Perth Cat Hospital for further information and advice. We are more than happy discuss the system in more detail and help you with diabetes monitoring options for your cat. We also have a detailed client hand out available to help guide you in the use the system.
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