Application of the HOMA Index in Diabetic Dogs and Cats: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence

Abstract

Featured Application: The application of the HOMA index in diabetic companion animals offers veterinarians a practical tool to assess insulin resistance and β-cell function. This approach can enhance early diagnosis, guide individualized treatment strategies, and improve metabolic monitoring in diabetic dogs and cats. The use of the HOMA (Homeostatic Model Assessment) index in veterinary medicine is emerging as a promising and valuable method for evaluating insulin resistance and beta-cell function in companion animals, particularly in dogs and cats. Originally developed for use in human medicine, HOMA enables a minimally invasive assessment of glucose and insulin homeostasis, offering clinicians a practical tool for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes mellitus in animals. Its application in veterinary practice brings several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and the potential for early detection of metabolic disturbances before clinical symptoms appear. Nonetheless, important limitations persist, such as inter-individual variability, the effects of stress and comorbidities on glucose and insulin values, and the absence of standardized, species-specific reference ranges. These factors highlight the need for methodological refinement and the establishment of validated protocols tailored to the unique physiological characteristics of dogs and cats. Despite these challenges, HOMA represents a promising avenue for advancing the understanding of diabetes pathophysiology in veterinary patients. Future longitudinal studies and controlled trials are essential to confirm its reliability and enhance its clinical relevance. With further development, the HOMA index could become an essential tool in improving diagnostic accuracy and optimizing the management of diabetes in companion animal practice.