Blood and Lab Work for Pets

A CBC evaluates the different components of your pet's blood, including red and white blood cells and platelets. This test is a staple in any medical work-up, as it reveals crucial information about your pet's overall health.

Red Blood Cell Count: A red blood cell count can determine if anemia, dehydration, or other disease process is occurring, as well as what type of anemia is present.

White Blood Cell Count: An increased white blood cell count can indicate inflammation, infection, or stress. White blood cells are further broken down into type, which is important for spotting certain disease processes.

Platelets: Platelets are essential for blood clotting and stopping bleeding.

Reticulocytes: This test is often ordered alongside a CBC to check if red blood cells are increasing in response to anemia.

This test assesses the chemical components in your pet's bloodstream, helping us evaluate multiple organs simultaneously or focus on one specific area.

Renal Profile (Kidneys): This profile monitors kidney function by measuring various substances like BUN (blood urea nitrogen), creatinine, and electrolytes. It can help detect kidney disease, infections, or kidney or bladder stones.

Liver Profile: This profile evaluates liver health by measuring enzyme levels and proteins in the blood. Abnormal levels of enzymes like ALT and AST can indicate liver damage, dehydration, Cushing’s disease, some cancers, or medication side effects.

Pre-surgical profile: This assessment checks liver and kidney function with a single test prior to surgery to help find any problems that may complicate surgery if not found and treated early.

Electrolyte Panel: This panel analyzes key electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) that impact hydration and organ function. Imbalances can indicate dehydration, kidney disease, toxicity, or other underlying issues.

Total Protein: Changes in albumin and globulin levels can indicate hydration status, inflammation, or liver issues.

Amylase and Lipase: Increases in these enzymes help diagnose pancreatitis, but can also indicate gastrointestinal or kidney conditions.

Glucose: Glucose readings measure blood sugar levels, helping to diagnose conditions like diabetes or monitor stress responses.

CK (Creatine Kinase): Elevated levels can indicate muscle damage.

Bile Acids: This test assesses liver function by measuring how well the liver processes these acids, which can indicate abnormal hepatic blood flow, decreased liver function, and bile duct obstruction.