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

Simple Summary The flash glucose monitoring system has recently become one of the most common monitoring methods in diabetic dogs and cats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the flash glucose monitoring system on diabetic pet owners' quality of life and the satisfaction related to its usability. Fifty diabetic pet owners who used at least one flash glucose monitoring system on their diabetic pet were asked to answer a 30-question survey. A total of 92% of diabetic pet owners reported that their pet had better diabetes control since using the device, while the most challenging aspects were ensuring proper sensor fixation during the wearing period and preventing premature detachment and costs related to its long-term use. In conclusion, the flash glucose monitoring system is considered by diabetic pet owners to be easy to use and less stressful compared to blood glucose curves, while also enabling better glycemic control. Nevertheless, costs related to its long-term use might be difficult to sustain. 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.