As humans, we are quite used to having to take blood tests, either to monitor our ongoing health or as part of the diagnostic process when we are suffering from an illness. Blood tests can be just as useful when it comes to the health and condition of our pets too.

Here’s what you need to know about why annual blood tests for pets are recommended, and what’s involved so that you know what to expect.

 

Types of Annual Blood Tests for Pets

There are usually several different types of blood tests recommended for our pets. They are as follows.

Complete Blood Count

Also known as a CBC test, this blood test is used to determine how many red and white cells are present in the sample, and how many platelets it contains. A CBC test can be used to identify a number of different health problems, including anemia (which is characterized by too few red blood cells), active infection (excessive numbers of white blood cells), and how well your pet’s blood will clot if required.

Blood Chemistry Test

This comprehensive blood test examines each of the different chemicals found within your pet’s blood and can be used to tell if their organs are functioning as they should be. Some of the conditions that can be detected using a blood chemistry test include thyroid disease, diabetes, liver problems, kidney problems, and more.

Heartworm Testing

Heartworms are a very common parasite, particularly amongst dogs who are the natural host for them. Unlike other internal worms, heartworms live in the blood vessels of the heart and lungs. This means that it is impossible to see them. However, as they grow and reproduce, they start to compromise blood flow, causing a range of unpleasant symptoms including coughing, breathlessness, and collapse. Without treatment, heartworms are nearly always fatal. Annual testing, in addition to comprehensive protection in the form of heartworm preventatives, is the best way to keep your pet safe.

 

Why Annual Blood Tests for Pets are Important

One of the most challenging aspects of pet ownership is knowing when your pet is unwell. Since they can’t verbally tell us that they are sick or in pain, they rely on us picking up unusual behaviors or other signs to get them the help that they need. As their owner, you know your pet better than anyone, so it may be possible to identify more obvious issues. However, many diseases and health conditions develop slowly, with symptoms not becoming evident until the latter stages – perhaps when there has already been damage to your pet’s health. The earlier a problem is detected, the more quickly and easily it can usually be treated. You could also prevent them from going through unnecessary pain and suffering.
 

Annual blood tests give your vet an opportunity to comprehensively monitor the health of your pet, both inside and out. The results can be recorded and compared in the future if required which can enable your veterinarian to see how your pet’s health has progressed through the years. Any worrying patterns can be identified more easily, again making it faster to start the right treatment to get your pet well again.

For more information about the importance of annual blood tests for your pet, or to schedule an appointment, please contact our veterinary team at Dr. J Personal Vet in Atlanta, Georgia by calling (855)-738-7437.