LONG-TERM MONITORING OF THE DIABETIC DOG AND CAT - CLINICAL SIGNS, SERIAL BLOOD GLUCOSE DETERMINATIONS, URINE GLUCOSE, AND GLYCATED BLOOD PROTEINS

摘要

Proper management of the diabetic dog or cat depends on the interpretation of clinical signs, urine glucose values, and periodic serial blood glucose monitoring. These parameters are helpful in both the initial regulation of the diabetic animal and when the dog or cat becomes unregulated later in the course of the disease. Return or persistence of clinical signs such as polyuria and polydipsia, or the development of cataracts in a previously well-regulated diabetic, will indicate the need for better control. Trends in urine glucose, monitored by the owner, also may signal the onset of dysregulation. Other tests, such as fructosamine and glycosylated hemoglobin, can aid in the determination of the longterm regulation status of the animal. Serial blood glucose measurement, however, is used most frequently to assess the dose, type, and frequency of administration of insulin in a particular animal.