Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Using the FreeStyle Libre glucose monitor in diabetic cats
By Deiting, Verena & Mischke, Reinhard·Published in Research in veterinary science·2021·Small Animal Clinic, Germany·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Use of the "FreeStyle Libre" glucose monitoring system in diabetic cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A group of diabetic cats were monitored using a new glucose sensor called the "FreeStyle Libre" to see how well it worked and how the cats reacted to it. Most cats showed minimal discomfort while wearing the sensor, which lasted about 8 days on average, but some had mild skin reactions after it was removed. The sensor readings were mostly accurate compared to traditional blood tests, making it a helpful tool for managing diabetes in cats. Overall, the device was found to be practical and less stressful for the cats, although it has a limit on how high glucose levels can be measured.
People also search for: diabetic cat glucose monitor · FreeStyle Libre for cats · managing diabetes in cats · cat skin reactions to sensors · how to monitor cat blood sugar
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the "FreeStyle Libre" flash glucose monitoring system regarding its measurement accuracy and tolerability in cats. Results from 66 sensors applied to 34 predominantly diabetic cats are included. The behaviour during the attachment, wearing, and removal of the sensor and the skin site of attachment were assessed. Blood samples were regularly collected for comparative measurements (hexokinase method). Minimal signs of discomfort were noted, although the sensor was additionally fixed using individual skin stitches. Sensors, which stopped working in situ (70% [46/66]), had a median functional life of 8.3 (1.6-14) days. Skin reactions on the adhesive surface occurred after removal of 39% (23) of 59 sensors with assessable skin reaction (mild erythema: n = 21; superficial dermatitis: n = 2). Due to the upper limit of the measurement range of 27.8 mmol/l (500 mg/dl), the reading device displayed "Hi" in 62% (17/34) of cats repeatedly and/or for periods >1 h. Results were highly correlated with those of the reference method (r = 0.90, n = 359). 67.7% (243/359) of the "FreeStyle Libre" measurement values had a maximum deviation of 15% from reference measurements and 99.4% (357/359) were within the zones A and B of Parkes Consensus error grid analysis. In conclusion, the device proved to be practicable, less stressful for the animals and generated in general acceptable results. Although the upper limit of the measurement range is a limiting factor, the device promises to significantly facilitate the management of diabetic cats.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33229057/