DiabetiCAT: Animal Biosensing Computing with Feline Urine Glucose Biosensing and Hydration Monitoring

Abstract

Continuous monitoring is essential for managing feline diabetes, however, it remains a challenge for both pet owners and cats, often delaying timely care. Current veterinary practices rely on infrequent urine samples, clinical observations, or invasive subdermal glucose monitors, while water intake is typically tracked manually by owners. We present DiabetiCAT, a non-invasive, in-home system that combines a biosensing litter box and a smart water fountain to monitor two key health indicators for diabetic cats: urinary glucose and hydration. The litter box integrates electrochemical biosensors to measure urinary glucose via chronoamperometry, while a scale under the water bowl is used to track hydration. A potentiostat captures the biosensor readings which are transmitted wirelessly to a remote database for storage and analysis. A veterinary-facing app interface paired with veterinary reports was designed in consultation with veterinary professionals. We evaluated the system with a 40-hour simulation using glucose solutions, tested real feline urine samples, and assessed the scale's capacity and precision. In a two-week case study with a diabetic cat, the collected data guided iterative refinements of our interface. Interviews with five veterinarians revealed how continuous, non-invasive biosensing data can support collaborative care among pets, owners, and professionals. DiabetiCAT advances the emerging subfield of Animal Biosensing Computing, demonstrating how IoT-integrated systems can extend the visibility of health-related behaviors and biochemistry in companion animals.