Written & Reviewed by Jamie Peterson (BS Veterinary Science, University of Rhode Island), Business Development Director PETRACKR

Understanding diabetes in dogs is crucial for appreciating the significance of their diet. In diabetes mellitus, the pancreas loses its ability to produce enough insulin or the body’s cells resist it. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which cannot be managed naturally. 

Dogs with diabetes usually have Type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), which means they need twice daily insulin injections. Adjusting their diet helps to prevent high and low blood sugar swings between insulin. Therefore, nutrition plays a vital role in keeping dogs healthy and their blood sugar stable, impacting their overall well-being and quality of life.

What role does nutrition play in helping to manage diabetes in dogs?

Key aspects of nutrition for managing diabetes include:

Balanced nutrients

Diabetic diets are higher in fibre, lower in fat, while providing the right balance of protein and carbohydrate and protein essential for diabetic dogs because it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, supports their energy needs, and contributes to overall well-being.

Calorie control

Careful portion control and calorie management are crucial for diabetic dogs to prevent weight gain or loss, as these fluctuations can significantly impact blood sugar stability and overall health.

Consistent feeding schedule

Establishing and adhering to a regular and consistent meal schedule is essential for diabetic dogs. This consistency helps synchronise insulin injections with meals, which is key to effectively managing blood sugar levels and preventing dangerous fluctuations. Ask your veterinarian whether you should give insulin before or after your pet’s meal.

Special dietary considerations

Choosing the right type of food, whether it’s commercial diabetic dog food, or a nutritionist-formulated homemade diet, can make a substantial difference in blood sugar management, addressing the unique dietary needs of diabetic dogs and supporting their health.

NOTE: Raw diets are not recommended for diabetic dogs because they are not high enough in fibre and because of the potential for infection in pets who are immune-suppressed.

Monitoring and adjusting

Regularly monitoring your diabetic dog’s response to their diet is a vital part of diabetes management. This proactive approach allows for necessary adjustments to the diet plan, ensuring that blood glucose levels remain stable and within the target range. Let your veterinarian know if your pet is not eating full meals, or if your pet is having any vomiting or diarrhea.

How can I maintain my dog’s nutrition to help them manage diabetes?

Maintaining your dog’s nutrition to help manage their diabetes requires a well-considered approach. Here’s a list of key strategies:

Ensure consistent feeding times

Stick to a regular meal schedule, ideally feeding your diabetic dog at the same time every 12 hours. Encourage strict adherence to feeding times to reduce the risk of low blood sugar.

Provide a tailored diet

Every meal should consist of the same ingredients and calorie content to help stabilise blood sugar levels. Ensure that the meals are tasty and meet half of your dog’s daily calories. Typically, veterinary-prescribed diets are the best option for your dog’s diet, as they contain ingredients specifically formulated to help stabilise blood sugar levels.

Be consistent with treats

Consistency in treating your diabetic dog plays a vital role in their overall well-being. If you offer treats or dental chews, make sure to keep them consistent. This routine helps maintain stability in their dietary habits, ensuring that treats do not disrupt blood sugar management and diabetic control.

Keep an eye out for changes in appetite and drinking

Understand that improved diabetic control may lead to a reduced appetite compared to the excessive hunger and excessive drinking your dog had before treatment.. Monitor your dog’s weight, adjust meal sizes based on their individual requirements, and be patient, as it may take up to 3 weeks to establish a revised feeding routine that suits your dog’s needs. If you notice increased drinking or an increased appetite, these may be early signs that your dog’s diabetes may no longer be under control. Once established, diabetes management will become more straightforward and successful.

By following these strategies, you can effectively maintain your diabetic dog’s nutrition and help them lead a healthier, more stable life.

What kinds of foods should go into the diet of a dog with diabetes?

Carbohydrates

Opt for carbohydrates with a low or medium glycemic index, which cause fewer spikes in blood glucose. Examples include some fruits, vegetables, whole grains, sweet potatoes, and brown rice. Steer clear of highly processed carbohydrates like white bread and white rice, as they can lead to erratic blood glucose levels.

Protein

High-quality protein, such as named meat, is an excellent choice for most diabetic dogs in moderation. It’s digested more slowly than carbohydrates, contributing to stable blood sugar levels. However, dogs with specific health issues like kidney or liver disease may have different protein requirements. Avoid high fat meats such as bacon, mince, pork chops, steak, as they are associated with pancreatitis.

Fat

Fat can provide essential calories for underweight dogs. However, for most diabetic dogs, a low-fat diet is crucial, as up to 30% of them develop diabetes secondary to pancreatitis. This dietary consideration becomes even more critical for overweight diabetic dogs.

Fibre

Incorporating fibre into the diet is beneficial for diabetic dogs as it helps regulate blood sugar levels. While fibre may cause some unwanted gas when the dog first starts the diet, this is temporary. The long-term benefits of preventing blood sugar swings are well worth it. 

Not every dog is a candidate for a high fibre diet such as dogs who are very underweight or who have pancreatitis. Dogs who are a normal weight or overweight are often good candidates for high fibre diets. Ask your veterinarian how much fibre is best for your dog.

Treats for diabetic dogs

When it comes to treats, variety is possible even for diabetic dogs. Avoid processed treats high in carbohydrates and propylene glycol. Instead, consider options like freeze-dried meats, dehydrated meats, dried salmon or liver, tuna or sardines in spring water, green beans, sugar snap peas, or carrot sticks. These treats can add flavour and excitement to your dog’s diet without compromising their blood sugar control. Treats should be no more than 10% of their diet each day.

How important is glucose monitoring for ensuring the nutrition of a dog with diabetes?

Glucose monitoring is vitally important for managing your diabetic dog’s nutrition effectively. Here’s why:

Blood sugar regulation

Monitoring your dog’s glucose levels allows you to assess how well their current diet and insulin regimen are working together to regulate blood sugar. This information is crucial for making necessary adjustments.

Individualised care

Every diabetic dog is unique, and their response to diet and insulin can vary. Regular monitoring helps tailor their nutrition plan to their specific needs, ensuring optimal blood sugar control.

Preventing low blood sugar

Monitoring helps prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening. You can adjust the timing and composition of meals to maintain stable glucose levels throughout the day.

Evaluating dietary impact

By tracking blood sugar levels before and after meals, you can assess how different foods and treats affect your dog’s glucose. This information guides your choices in selecting the best foods for their diabetes management.

Health monitoring

Consistent glucose monitoring provides insights into your dog’s overall health. Sudden changes in blood sugar levels can signal underlying health issues that may require veterinary attention.

Quality of life

Glucose monitoring gives you warnings if there are any issues with your pet’s diabetes. This will give your pet the best diabetes control possible and will give you peace of mind.

In summary, glucose monitoring is an essential component of managing your diabetic dog’s nutrition. It empowers you to make informed decisions about their diet, insulin dosage, and overall care, ultimately contributing to their health and longevity. Always work closely with your veterinarian to establish an effective monitoring routine and adapt your dog’s nutrition plan as needed.

Where can I get the best quality glucose monitoring for my dog?

PETRACKR’s glucose monitoring system offer a precise and efficient way to track your pet’s blood glucose levels. 

PETRACKR’s system streamlines data collection and management for pet health tracking. Their innovative smartphone app enables customisable pet profiles, making it effortless to monitor your dog’s well-being. PETRACKR stands apart from competitors with its unique features:

• Specialised, no-coding test strips simplify the testing process.
• Control testing is not required. 
• Seamless switching between measuring blood glucose in cats and dogs without coding or control tests, ideal for multi-pet households.
• Clear test results display with range indicators for low, high, or in-range blood glucose levels, enabling quick assessment.
• User-friendly design with colour display and safe eject button for hygienic disposal of used strips.
• Bluetooth connectivity integrates the analyzer and app, allowing easy recording and tracking of pet’s glucose measurements, insulin doses, meals, and exercise.
• Accurate and straightforward reporting of pet’s results and factors within the app for convenient sharing with veterinarians.

With PETRACKR, managing your pets’ diabetes becomes effortless and reliable. Easily track insulin, meals and exercise along with the blood glucose for complete data tracking and reporting.

Sources

Case LP, Daristotle, Hayek MP, Raasch MF. Chapter 29: Diabetes mellitus. In: Case LP, Daristotle, Hayek MP, Raasch MF. Canine and Feline Nutrition. 3rd edition. Mosby, Elsevier, Maryland Heights, MO; 2011: 343-358.

https://www.sydneyvetspecialists.com.au/diabetes-mellitus-in-dogs

https://www.animaldiabetesaustralia.com.au/diabetic-care-of-dogs

https://www.ava.com.au/digest/from-around-the-ava/2021/february/1/nutritional-management-of-diabetic-dogs/ https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/diets-diabetic-dogs

Written & Reviewed by Jamie Peterson (BS Veterinary Science, University of Rhode Island), Business Development Director PETRACKR

Human v Veterinary Glucose Monitoring

Monitoring glucose levels is vital for managing health, both in humans and pets. But the methods and nuances in tracking these levels differ between the two. Human glucose monitoring is tailored to our lifestyles, offering a range of techniques from traditional tests to advanced systems. 

On the other hand, pets have unique needs, and their trackers prioritise stress reduction and comfort as well as ease of use for the pet parent. As we examine the differences in glucose monitoring, we’ll uncover the distinct approaches for humans and animals, ensuring optimal health outcomes for all.

Why is glucose monitoring important for both humans and pets?

Glucose monitoring holds immense importance for both humans and pets due to its direct impact on overall health. Glucose serves as a vital energy source for cells, and maintaining its balance is essential. 

In humans, consistent glucose monitoring is particularly crucial for those managing conditions like diabetes and conditions causing low blood sugar, as fluctuations can lead to severe health complications. By tracking glucose levels, individuals can make informed decisions about medication, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. 

Similarly, pets benefit from glucose monitoring, especially those at risk of diabetes. Regular monitoring enables early detection of potential health issues, allowing timely interventions for improved well-being. In essence, glucose monitoring empowers individuals and pet owners alike to proactively safeguard health and enhance the quality of life for both humans and their beloved animal companions.

How do I monitor glucose in both myself and my pets?

Monitoring glucose in both humans and pets involves specific methods and tools designed for each. Here’s a brief guide:

For humans

• Fingerstick Blood Tests: The most common method where you prick your finger using a lancet, and then place a small drop of blood on a test strip. This strip is then inserted into a glucose metre which gives a reading.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): These are wearable devices that measure glucose levels in real-time throughout the day and night. They use a tiny sensor inserted under the skin which automatically records glucose levels.
• Haemoglobin A1C Test: This is a lab test done at your doctor’s office that provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.

For pets

• Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): Veterinarians may place a human Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) on a pet who needs frequent monitoring throughout the day for 10-14 days, such as a hospitalised patient. At this time, no CGMs are approved for use in veterinary patients. These monitors give slightly different results than blood glucose metres calibrated for pets.
• Blood Glucose Metres: These are similar to human metres, but they are calibrated for pets. The process involves taking a small blood sample, usually from the ear edge or paw pad, and placing it on a test strip.
• Urine Glucose Test: Although less accurate, urine tests can help determine if a pet’s glucose level is high. Special test strips change colour when dipped in urine containing glucose. Urine Glucose Testing is less reliable at detecting low glucose levels.

Tips for both

• Always consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before beginning any glucose monitoring regimen. Only change an insulin dose based on your veterinarian’s advice.
• Ensure that you’re using the right tools: human metres shouldn’t be used for pets.
• Keep a consistent log of readings, which can be very helpful for spotting trends or for consultations with medical or veterinary professionals.
• Monitor regularly and be aware of factors that might affect glucose levels, such as food, exercise, stress, or illness.

Benefits of portable glucose monitoring for both humans and dogs

Portable glucose monitoring offers a host of advantages for managing diabetes in both humans and dogs, revolutionising the way we approach this chronic condition. The convenience of these devices, such as the PETRACKR for pets, allows for quick and accurate blood glucose measurements without the need for a clinic or hospital visit. This not only reduces stress for your pet but also gives you peace of mind. For humans, portable glucometers offer similar benefits, allowing for more frequent and accurate readings compared to traditional methods like urine tests. Blood glucose monitoring allows people or pet parents to recognise worrisome glucose values or trends right away. With these values, their medical professionals can give higher quality care and advice.

The benefits extend beyond mere convenience and immediate action; these devices also facilitate a deeper understanding of how lifestyle choices impact blood sugar levels. By tracking meals, exercise, medication, and other variables, users can identify patterns and make informed health management decisions. 

However, it’s essential to remember that while portable glucose monitors are invaluable tools, they should not replace regular consultations with healthcare providers. Both your veterinarian and doctor are integral to your comprehensive treatment plan, offering expert guidance to ensure optimal care. In summary, portable glucose monitoring is a transformative tool for diabetes management in both humans and dogs, providing real-time data, convenience, and a greater sense of control over this chronic condition. It’s an investment in health that pays dividends in improved well-being and peace of mind.

Why shouldn’t I use a glucose monitor intended for humans on my pets?

Using a glucose monitor intended for humans on pets is not recommended due to several important reasons:

Calibration differences

Using a glucose monitor not designed for pets on your furry companions can result in inaccurate readings due to calibration differences. This is because glucose levels in a pet’s blood can vary from those in humans.

Species-specific considerations

Pets possess unique physiology compared to humans, impacting their glucose readings. Factors like blood composition, circulation, and metabolic rates can all affect accuracy. Pet-specific monitors are designed to address these considerations.

Accuracy concerns

Achieving accurate glucose readings is vital for managing health conditions. When applied to pets, human glucose monitors may not be precise due to variations in blood samples and the device’s calibration range, potentially leading to misguided health decisions.

Veterinary recommendations

Relying on the expertise of veterinarians is crucial for your pets’ health. Veterinary professionals are trained to understand animal health intricacies and have access to specialised monitors calibrated specifically for pets, ensuring more dependable results.

Impact on treatment

Inaccurate glucose readings can have serious consequences for your pets’ treatment plans. Incorrect decisions based on flawed data may jeopardise their well-being or lead to ineffective treatments.

Safety and comfort

Opting for pet-friendly glucose monitors ensures that your animals’ comfort and safety are prioritised during testing. Pet glucose metres often have smaller needles on their lancets and need a smaller amount of blood for testing. Human monitors have larger needles and require more blood. Using monitors intended for humans can distress pets and introduce unnecessary stress during the monitoring process.

Manufacturer warranties

Employing a glucose monitor in unintended ways, such as using one designed for humans on pets, can void the manufacturer’s warranty. This would leave you without recourse or support in case the device malfunctions or encounters issues.

In summary, to ensure accurate and reliable glucose monitoring for your pets, it’s best to use monitors specifically designed and calibrated for them. Always consult with a veterinarian who can guide you on the appropriate monitoring methods for your pets.

Where can I get the best glucose monitor for my pets?

Introducing the PETRACKR Blood Glucose Monitoring System—a breakthrough solution designed specifically for cats and dogs that is available through veterinary distributions and can be acquired through your veterinarian. This innovative system offers swift and accurate glucose monitoring, seamlessly integrated with the PETRACKR® app for effortless data recording, monitoring, and reporting.

Derived from a leading human blood glucose product, PETRACKR ensures reliability and accuracy, comparable to laboratory analysers. Rapid results are delivered with minimal sample sizes, providing glucose readings within seconds. The system’s user-friendly design includes a convenient sample disposal eject button, enhancing safety and hygiene.

Simplicity reigns with the PETRACKR system. Data collection and management become effortless, further streamlined through its integration with the PETRACKR app. The app offers customizable pet profiles, granting insight into glucose history at your fingertips. Plus, coding complexity is eliminated, as the system auto-calibrates for cats and dogs.

The PETRACKR Blood Glucose Monitoring System embodies precision, convenience, and user-friendliness, revolutionising pet care through advanced technology and ease of use. Elevate your pet’s health with this unparalleled monitoring solution.

Visit our website to learn more information and get a blood glucose monitor for your pets!

Sources:

• https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/diabetes-management/treatment/insulin-therapies/
• https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blood-glucose-test 
• Peña LW, Flatland B, Behrend EN, Arzón-Pereira A, Cole JE, Raz ML. Impact on result interpretation of correct and incorrect selection of veterinary glucometer canine and feline settings. J Vet Diagn Invest. 2023;35(6):710-720. doi:10.1177/10406387231195386 
• Cohen TA, Nelson RW, Kass PH, Christopher MM, Feldman EC. Evaluation of six portable blood glucose meters for measuring blood glucose concentration in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2009;235(3):276-280. doi:10.2460/javma.235.3.276
• https://www.universalbiosensors.com/products/petrackr/ 

Written & Reviewed by Jamie Peterson (BS Veterinary Science, University of Rhode Island), Business Development Director PETRACKR.

A glucometer is a handheld medical device designed to measure the concentration of glucose (sugar) in blood, used by individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.

As diabetes is a condition that affects both humans and pets, there are both human and pet glucometers that are available. Keep reading to learn more about these glucometers and their many differences.

How do human and pet glucometers work?

Here is a generalised explanation of how glucometers work:

Blood sample collection

Whether for humans or pets, obtaining a blood sample is a pivotal step in glucose monitoring. Users employ a lancet to gently prick the fingertip or an alternative site for pets, ensuring a small and manageable blood droplet for the subsequent testing process.

Application to test strip

The collected blood droplet is carefully applied to a disposable test strip, a vital component of the glucometer. This strip contains specialised enzymes that play a crucial role in the chemical reaction necessary for glucose measurement.

Signal generation

As a result of the chemical reaction, an electrical current or other measurable signals are generated. The intensity of these signals corresponds directly to the blood glucose plasma equivalent ratio of the sample, forming the basis for the accurate measurement of blood glucose levels.

Conversion to numerical value

Once the signals are captured, the glucometer performs a rapid and precise conversion, turning the measured signals into a numerical value. This numerical representation is a direct reflection of the concentration of glucose in the blood, providing a quantitative measure for the user.

What are the differences between human and pet glucometers?

Human and pet glucometers, while sharing the same purpose of measuring blood glucose levels, have critical differences that take into account the physical, genetic, and even species differences of the test subject, including:

Blood sample collection

When it comes to blood sample collection, pet glucometers acknowledge the anatomical differences and preferences of animals. They are designed to accommodate alternative testing sites, such as the ear or paw pad, recognising the need for flexibility in sampling locations for different animal species. 

On the other hand, human glucometers are typically designed for the common practice of fingertip blood sampling in human glucose monitoring. This design reflects the familiarity and convenience associated with this method for human users. 

Test strip composition

The composition of test strips plays a critical role in the accuracy of glucose measurements. Specialised test strips for pet glucometers take into account the variations in blood composition between species, as there are significant differences. This ensures that the test strips provide accurate measurements for animals, aligning with the unique physiological aspects of pets. 

In contrast, test strips for human glucometers are meticulously formulated and optimised for the characteristics of human blood. Humans have a higher ratio of glucose to plasma glucose than dogs and other domestic animals.

Communication and handling

Human glucometers are designed for direct use by individuals, often incorporating advanced features like data storage, trend analysis, and connectivity to external devices. These features cater to the needs of human users who may benefit from comprehensive data management and analysis. 

In contrast, pet glucometers focus on simplicity and efficiency for pet owners. They are designed with straightforward functionality to ensure ease of handling during glucose testing, considering the diversity of pet owner experiences and knowledge levels.

Species-specific calibration

To ensure accuracy in glucose readings, glucometers undergo species-specific calibration. Pet glucometers are calibrated to accommodate the different blood composition of animals. This species-specific calibration ensures accurate and reliable glucose measurements for a variety of pets.

On the other hand, Human glucometers are calibrated to the characteristics of human blood, providing precise readings for human users. 

Specifically, there is a notable difference between the distribution of glucose in the blood of humans and the blood of cats and dogs: 

• In dogs, 87.5% of the glucose is located in plasma and 12.5% of the glucose in the red blood cells.
• In cats, 93% of the glucose is located in plasma and only 7% of the glucose in the red blood cells.
• In humans, 58% of the glucose is located in plasma and 42% of the glucose in the red blood cells.

Additionally, there are differences in packed cell volume (PCV) among humans, dogs, and cats. For instance, dogs typically have a PCV of 37-55%, cats 24-45%, and humans typically have a PCV range of 37-50%. This indicates significant variation in the number of red blood cells across species.

User guidance and experience

The user experience is a crucial aspect of glucometer functionality. Pet glucometers are designed to offer clear guidance for pet owners. The design and user interface take into consideration the diverse range of pet owner experiences and knowledge levels, ensuring accessibility and ease of use for all. Additionally, the app collates relevant information on your pet’s blood to show to your vet, informing their medical decisions based on accurate values.

Human glucometers, in contrast, often have user interfaces and guidance tailored for human interaction. This includes providing information and feedback in a way that resonates with human users, enhancing their overall experience.

Can you use a human glucometer on pets?

Using a human glucometer on a pet is not recommended due to several reasons related to the physiological and anatomical differences between humans and animals. Here are some key factors explaining why a human glucometer is not suitable for pets:

• Using a human glucometer on a pet introduces the risk of inaccurate blood glucose readings, which can lead to incorrect assessments of the pet’s health status and potentially compromise its well-being.
  
• Relying on inaccurate blood glucose readings from a human glucometer may impact the management of a pet’s diabetes. This could result in inadequate insulin dosages, improper dietary adjustments, or delayed interventions, adversely affecting the pet’s health.
  
• Test strips for human glucometers are formulated to work with human blood, and the chemistry is tailored to human glucose levels. This formulation may not react appropriately to animal blood, resulting in unreliable readings.
  
• Human glucometers do not have features specifically designed for the veterinary context. Veterinary glucometers often come with additional features and guidance tailored for accurate and reliable blood glucose monitoring in animals.
  
• Veterinarians are trained to provide guidance on pet health and the selection of appropriate medical devices. Using a human glucometer without veterinary approval may bypass the expertise needed to ensure the pet’s specific health needs are met.

Where can I get the ideal pet glucometer?

The PETRACKR Blood Glucose Monitoring System is an innovative solution tailored specifically for cats and dogs, accessible through veterinary channels and obtainable through your veterinarian. This state-of-the-art system guarantees rapid and precise glucose monitoring, seamlessly integrating with the PETRACKR® app to effortlessly record, monitor, and report data.

Derived from a leading human blood glucose product, PETRACKR ensures reliability and accuracy on par with laboratory analysers, producing swift results with minimal sample sizes, delivering glucose readings within seconds. The system’s user-friendly design incorporates a convenient sample disposal eject button, elevating safety and hygiene measures.

The PETRACKR system prioritises simplicity, making data collection and management effortless. This process is further streamlined with the seamless integration of the PETRACKR app, which provides customisable pet profiles for instant access to glucose history. Moreover, the system eliminates coding complexity by auto-calibrating for both cats and dogs.

The PETRACKR Blood Glucose Monitoring System provides accuracy, convenience, and user-friendly features, transforming pet care with advanced technology and simplicity. Enhance your pet’s well-being with this unmatched monitoring solution.

Visit our website to learn more information and get a blood glucose monitor for your pets!

Sources

• https://www.forbes.com/health/conditions/diabetes/glucometers-guide/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4865699/
• https://diabeticoutlet.com/use-pet-specific-glucose-meter/ 
• https://universalbiosensors.com/products/petrackr/

Written & Reviewed by Jamie Peterson (BS Veterinary Science, University of Rhode Island), Business Development Director PETRACKR.

Monitoring blood glucose levels in cats and dogs with diabetes is crucial to ensure their overall health and well-being. Diabetes in pets, just like in humans, can lead to significant complications if not managed properly. 

Regular blood glucose monitoring allows pet owners and veterinarians to closely track any shifts in glucose levels, enabling them to make timely adjustments to medication, diet, and lifestyle. By maintaining stable blood glucose levels, the risk of immediate complications such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can be minimised, preventing potential emergencies. 

Furthermore, consistent monitoring helps detect trends and patterns, aiding veterinarians in tailoring treatment plans to the individual needs of each pet. This proactive approach not only enhances the quality of life for pets with diabetes but also contributes to extending their lifespan and reducing the risk of secondary health issues that can arise from poorly controlled blood sugar levels.

How often should I monitor the blood glucose levels of my pets if they have diabetes?

If your pet has diabetes, it is important to monitor their blood glucose levels on a daily basis. This is for several reasons;

• Optimal Glucose Regulation: Daily monitoring allows you to make timely adjustments to insulin dosage, diet, and exercise to keep your pet’s blood sugar levels within a target range.
• Personalising Your Pet’s Treatment Plan: Daily monitoring helps you and your veterinarian create a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs, ensuring that they receive the right insulin dosage, diet, and exercise regimen for optimal health.
• Early Detection (and Prevention): Monitoring daily allows you to identify trends over time. By responding to these trends early, you can help your pet avoid potential health complications, such as organ damage or infections.
• Quality of Life: Well-managed diabetes contributes to a better quality of life for your pet. Stable blood sugar levels can prevent symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, lethargy, and weight loss, allowing your pet to lead a more comfortable and active life.

What are the risks of inadequate blood glucose monitoring?

Inadequate blood glucose monitoring in pets, particularly those with diabetes, poses serious risks. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to complications like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. 

Hypoglycemia, characterised by low blood sugar, can result in seizures, weakness, and even coma. Conversely, hyperglycemia, high blood sugar, can lead to lethargy, increased thirst, and organ damage over time. 

Without proper monitoring, adjustments to insulin doses and dietary management become challenging, putting the pet’s health in jeopardy. Regular blood glucose checks are essential to prevent these life-threatening conditions and ensure a better quality of life for diabetic pets.

What are the benefits of daily blood glucose monitoring in pets?

Daily blood glucose monitoring in pets allows pet owners to effectively manage conditions like diabetes, ensuring timely adjustments to insulin doses and diet. Additionally, monitoring trends in glucose levels helps prevent dangerous fluctuations, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. 

Early detection of abnormalities enables timely veterinary intervention, preventing complications and enhancing the pet’s quality of life. Additionally, regular monitoring fosters a stronger bond between pet and owner, as it demonstrates care and commitment to the pet’s well-being.

How can I monitor the blood glucose of my pets?

Pet owners now have access to new technology with the PETRACKR glucose monitoring strips, an accurate and efficient solution for tracking pets’ blood glucose levels. These strips stand out by delivering laboratory analyser-level precision. 

With rapid results obtained from a small sample size within seconds, they ensure timely insights into pets’ health. The design prioritises safety, featuring a sample disposal eject button. Easy data collection and management are facilitated, while the accompanying smartphone app offers customisable pet profiles. 

An additional advantage is the no-coding feature; the strips are auto-calibrated for both cats and dogs, making it easy for pet owners and veterinarians. 

With PETRACKR, managing pets’ diabetes becomes seamless and reliable.

What are some tips for pet owners on blood glucose monitoring?

• Firstly, consult a veterinarian for guidance on testing frequency and technique. Acquire a reliable glucose meter designed for your pet’s species. 
• Familiarise yourself with the testing process by observing your vet. Keep a record of readings to identify trends. 
• Perform tests consistently at the same time and under similar conditions. Reward your pet after testing to create a positive association. 
• Ensure clean paws for accurate results. 
• If levels are consistently off, consult the vet to adjust the treatment plan. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How often should I take my pet to the vet for diabetes check-ups?

For pets diagnosed with diabetes, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to manage their condition effectively. 

Typically, diabetic pets require check-ups every 2 to 4 months, especially during the initial stages of treatment to ensure proper insulin regulation and monitor their overall health. These appointments enable the vet to adjust medication, evaluate blood sugar levels, and assess any complications or changes in behaviour. 

However, the frequency might vary based on your pet’s individual needs and the vet’s recommendations. Open communication with your vet is essential for devising a tailored check-up schedule that ensures your furry friend’s well-being and quality of life.

What should I do if my pet’s blood glucose readings are consistently too high or too low?

If your pet’s blood glucose readings are consistently too high or too low, it’s crucial to take immediate action. 

High readings might indicate diabetes and require dietary adjustments, insulin administration, and regular vet check-ups. Low readings could signal hypoglycemia, necessitating fast-acting glucose sources like honey or specialised gels. 

Consult your veterinarian for guidance on adjusting medication doses, modifying the diet, and establishing a proper monitoring routine. Consistent communication with your vet is essential to manage your pet’s blood glucose levels effectively and ensure their overall well-being.

Are there signs I should watch for even if I’m monitoring daily?

Even with daily monitoring, certain signs deserve heightened attention. Look for abrupt deviations from the established patterns or trends. Sudden spikes or drops in metrics might indicate anomalies.

Additionally, be alert to unusual correlations or discrepancies that defy logical explanations. Changes that occur consistently at certain times could signal external factors influencing the situation. 

Remember to assess both quantitative data and qualitative observations. Human intuition can sometimes highlight subtle shifts that data alone might miss. Regularly reevaluate your monitoring strategy to ensure it remains aligned with the most relevant indicators for accurate early detection.

Sources

https://www.collaroyvet.com.au/diabetes-in-cats-dogs/

https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/diabetes-management/monitoring/

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/diabetes-pets

https://diabetes-m.com/blog/tips-tricks/caring-for-your-diabetic-pet/

https://www.localvet.com.au/CroydonPetHospital/Images/Client%20info%20pdfs/CPH%20Diabetes%20Mellitus.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3440050/