Like humans, blood tests are an important diagnostic and anaesthetic pre-screening tool for pets. At Vets in Endeavour Hills, we recommend regular blood testing for cats and dogs to identify health concerns early, evaluate anaesthetic suitability, and diagnose illnesses when your furry companions aren’t feeling themselves.
Why Are Blood Tests Important for Pets?
When pets can’t express their discomfort, blood tests are a valuable way to detect hidden health concerns. Blood screening for dogs and cats helps by:
- Detecting illnesses early, often before any signs appear.
- Supporting anaesthetic safety with pre-screening.
- Diagnosing symptoms to understand underlying issues.
- Monitoring the success of treatments and adjusting dosages as required.
A blood panel for dogs and cats can reveal:
- Organ function: Including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas
- Enzyme levels: wHelping to identify muscle inflammation or damage
- Red and white blood cell counts: Indicating signs of anaemia, infection, or immune response
- Hormonal imbalances and diseases: Such as thyroid issues, diabetes, or other infections
- Blood clotting factors: Abnormalities that may impact bleeding or wound healing
When Might Your Pet Need a Blood Test?
Your pet may require blood testing under various circumstances:
- Routine Health Screenings: Regular blood tests aid in detecting illness or decreasing organ function early on before pets become unwell. This is especially important for more senior pets. Annual blood tests to assist monitoring your pet’s health, increasing to twice yearly after 7–9 years of age or if health issues are identified.
- Pre-Anaesthetic Screening: Blood tests help assess anaesthetic risks before surgery. At Vets in Endeavour Hills, we recommend that any patient receiving anaesthesia have a blood test unless one has been completed recently.
- Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Ongoing veterinary blood tests help monitor treatment success and side effects in pets with chronic conditions.
When Your Pet Ill
Blood tests are a vital diagnostic tool when your pet is sick, in addition to being preventative. If your furry companion shows symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, appetite loss, or strange behaviour, blood screening provides the insights needed to identify what’s wrong.
How Are Blood Tests Performed?
Pet blood tests at Vets in Endeavour Hills are quick and minimally invasive. During the procedure, our veterinarian will:
- Shave a small area on your pet’s leg or neck
- Sterilise the area
- Draw a small blood sample
Our in-house analysers provide rapid results for pre-anaesthetic screening and diagnostics. Comprehensive tests are handled by an external pathology lab. For most pets, the procedure is quick and relatively stress-free.
Schedule a Blood Test for Your Pet
At Vets in Endeavour Hills, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality care for your pets. Whether they need a routine blood test or a more targeted blood panel, our team is here to help. Book your furry friend’s blood test today to help ensure they are in good health.
