Diabetes mellitus: Guidance for managing diabetes in practice

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common condition encountered in both dogs and cats. In many cases it can be managed well, but there are cases that are problematic initially, or which become unstable. This roundtable aims to provide brief, practical guidance to assist veterinary surgeons in first opinion practice to treat and monitor straightforward cases of DM, in order to provide good quality of life for both the diabetic pet and the owner; and to recognise when a case is more complicated and further testing, specialist input or referral may be needed. The initial summary of diabetes essentials outlines ‘need to know’ definitions and pathogenesis; owner considerations and engagement; successful treatment; and monitoring and instability. This is followed by the roundtable presentations and discussions, which provide a brief review of the pathophysiology of diabetes in dogs and cats; discuss the goals of treatment; consider both monitoring and diagnostic errors; and look at the role of nurse-led clinics.