Why Regular Blood Tests Matter at Livingston Veterinary Hospital

At Livingston Veterinary Hospital, we emphasize preventive care to detect health issues early and ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life. Annual bloodwork plays a critical role in identifying diseases before symptoms appear, allowing for timely intervention and better treatment outcomes.

Read more about why regular veterinary visits are important

How Bloodwork Benefits Your Pet

Routine blood tests provide valuable insights into your pet’s overall health. They help:

  • Detect early signs of disease – Conditions like kidney disease, liver issues, diabetes, and infections often show no symptoms in the early stages.
  • Identify hormonal imbalances – Thyroid disorders and other endocrine issues can affect metabolism and energy levels.
  • Establish baseline health markers – Tracking trends over time helps veterinarians catch abnormalities sooner.
  • Guide personalized treatment plans – Bloodwork helps veterinarians tailor care to your pet’s specific needs.

Learn about the types of veterinary medical tests from Merck

Key Components of Annual Bloodwork

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC test evaluates:

  • Red blood cells (RBCs): Detects anemia and assesses oxygen-carrying capacity.
  • White blood cells (WBCs): Identifies infections, inflammation, and immune response.
  • Platelets: Assesses blood clotting ability.

For example, a high WBC count may signal infection, while a low RBC count could indicate anemia or chronic disease.

Learn about the importance of bloodwork for your pet

2. Blood Chemistry Panel

This test evaluates organ function and metabolic health by measuring:

  • Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP): Elevated levels can indicate liver disease or dysfunction.
  • Kidney function markers (BUN, creatinine): Helps detect kidney disease before symptoms appear.
  • Blood glucose levels: Essential for diagnosing diabetes.
  • Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride): Important for hydration and metabolic balance.

Early detection of organ dysfunction allows for dietary changes, medications, or other interventions that can slow disease progression.

3. Thyroid Function Tests

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, and imbalances can cause significant health issues.

  • Hypothyroidism (common in dogs): Leads to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
  • Hyperthyroidism (common in cats): Causes weight loss, hyperactivity, and an increased appetite.

Thyroid imbalances can be managed effectively with early detection and proper treatment.

Recognizing senior pet health problems

The Lifesaving Benefits of Early Detection

Many serious health conditions can be managed or even prevented with routine blood testing.

  • Kidney Disease: If caught early, dietary changes and medications can slow progression.
  • Diabetes: Monitoring glucose levels helps prevent complications like weight loss, vision problems, and organ failure.
  • Liver Disease: Detecting liver issues before symptoms appear allows for lifestyle changes and medical treatment to protect liver function.

Learn how preventive care supports senior pets

Bloodwork for Pets of All Ages

For Puppies, Kittens, and Young Adults

  • Establishes baseline health markers for future comparison.
  • Detects hidden congenital conditions that may not yet show symptoms.
  • Monitors early signs of infection, anemia, or metabolic disorders.

For Senior Pets

  • Identifies age-related diseases before they worsen.
  • Ensures that current medications are working effectively and not harming other organs.
  • Helps adjust diet and lifestyle for optimal senior care.

Stress-Free Blood Tests at Livingston Veterinary Hospital

What to Expect During a Blood Test

  • A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in the leg or neck.
  • The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and well-tolerated by most pets.
  • Results are usually available within 24 hours.

How We Ensure a Comfortable Experience

  • Gentle handling to minimize stress.
  • Quick and efficient procedure to reduce discomfort.
  • Calm, reassuring environment to keep your pet relaxed and comfortable.

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FAQs About Pet Bloodwork

How often should my pet have bloodwork?

Annually for healthy pets; more frequently for senior pets or those with medical conditions.

Will my pet need sedation for bloodwork?

No, most pets tolerate the procedure well without sedation.

Can blood tests detect cancer in pets?

While bloodwork alone does not diagnose cancer, it can reveal abnormalities that warrant further testing.

How long does it take to get results?

Most routine blood test results are available within 24 hours.

Schedule Your Pet’s Bloodwork Today

Annual bloodwork is a lifesaving tool that allows for early disease detection and proactive care. At Livingston Veterinary Hospital, we make it easy to prioritize your pet’s health.

Book an appointment today and ensure your pet stays healthy for years to come!