It is advisable to have a dog or cat’s blood tested when they show symptoms, before certain procedures involving anaesthesia, to monitor a condition or treatment, and as part of preventive check-ups, particularly in older animals.
Blood tests can detect abnormalities that do not yet produce visible signs and provide information on anaemia, inflammation, glucose, kidney function, liver function, proteins, electrolytes and other parameters. However, a blood test is no substitute for a physical examination: its results must be interpreted in conjunction with the patient’s age, symptoms, medical history and other tests.
At Benivet Benissa, the need for and type of test are determined on a case-by-case basis during a veterinary check-ups for dogs and cats. Not all patients need the same tests, nor do they need them at the same frequency.
In what situations is a blood test recommended?
Your vet may recommend this test as a preventive measure or when there are signs consistent with a medical condition. The most common situations are:
- Persistent vomiting, diarrhoea or loss of appetite.
- Weight loss or gain for no apparent reason.
- Increased thirst or increased urine output.
- Fatigue, weakness or reduced exercise tolerance.
- Fever, pale mucous membranes or a suspected infection.
- Jaundice, or a yellowish colour in the eyes, gums or skin.
- Bleeding, bruising or clotting problems.
- Before an operation or procedure involving anaesthesia.
- Monitoring a chronic condition.
- Monitoring of medicines that may affect internal organs.
- Preventative check-ups for adult and senior animals.
A blood test may also be recommended if the examination reveals changes that are not apparent at home, such as heart rhythm abnormalities, swollen lymph nodes, loss of muscle mass or abdominal pain.
What can a veterinary blood test detect?
A basic blood test usually includes a complete blood count and a biochemistry panel, although the exact tests carried out depend on the reason for the consultation.
The blood count It analyses red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It can provide information on anaemia, inflammation, certain infections and clotting disorders.
The blood biochemistry It measures substances related to the functioning of the kidneys, liver and pancreas, as well as glucose, protein and electrolyte metabolism. The results can help guide the diagnosis, but an abnormal result does not in itself confirm the presence of a disease.
The service provided by veterinary blood tests in Benissa It allows you to select the appropriate settings based on the symptoms, age and medical history of each dog or cat.
How often should you have a blood test?
There is no single frequency that applies to all animals. The frequency depends on the pet’s age, species, state of health, medical history and any treatment it is receiving.
In apparently healthy adult dogs and cats, the vet may recommend preventive tests as part of their regular check-ups to establish baseline values and detect changes over time. In senior animals, these tests tend to be even more important because certain kidney, liver, endocrine or metabolic diseases can progress before causing any clear symptoms.
Pets with chronic conditions or those on long-term medication may require more frequent check-ups. In such cases, the schedule is tailored to the condition, the treatment and how the results are progressing.
Why is it recommended for older dogs and cats?
As we get older, the likelihood of developing kidney, liver, endocrine, metabolic or haematological disorders increases. Some of these may begin without any obvious symptoms and initially manifest as slight changes in blood test results.
Having previous results available makes it possible to compare trends and identify whether a parameter is changing, even when it remains close to the reference range. This information can help determine whether it is necessary to repeat the test, adjust the diet or carry out further investigations.
The age at which a pet is considered to be a senior depends on its species, size, breed and state of health. For this reason, the frequency of check-ups should be determined on a case-by-case basis and not solely on the basis of the pet’s age in years.
Is a blood test necessary before an operation?
Before surgery or certain procedures involving sedation or anaesthesia, pre-operative blood tests may be recommended. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the patient’s general health and to detect any abnormalities that may affect anaesthesia, blood clotting or recovery.
Depending on the patient’s age, medical history and the type of procedure, the assessment may include a full blood count, biochemistry, electrolytes and coagulation tests. The results help the team to adapt the protocol, request further tests or postpone the procedure where necessary.
Pre-operative assessment forms part of an individualised plan for the veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia. A routine blood test reduces some uncertainties, but does not completely eliminate the anaesthetic risk.
When is it used to manage a condition?
Blood tests are useful for diagnosing and monitoring kidney, liver, endocrine, inflammatory, infectious and haematological conditions. They also enable us to assess a patient’s response to treatment and detect any potential side effects of certain medicines.
A dog or cat with diabetes, kidney disease, liver problems, hormonal disorders or anaemia may require regular check-ups. The frequency will depend on the patient’s condition and the parameters that need to be monitored.
In complex cases, the results can be interpreted as part of an assessment of veterinary internal medicine and be combined with urine tests, ultrasound scans or other diagnostic tests.
Do routine blood tests rule out any illnesses?
No. Normal blood test results are a positive sign, but they do not rule out all diseases. Some conditions do not affect blood parameters in their early stages, or require specific tests that are not included in a standard blood test.
Furthermore, a result outside the reference range does not automatically mean that a serious illness is present. Age, stress, hydration, diet, certain medicines and individual characteristics can all influence some of these values.
The vet therefore interprets the results in conjunction with the physical examination and the symptoms. If clinical suspicion persists, they may recommend repeating the test or supplementing it with a veterinary urinalysis, imaging tests or more specific investigations.
Should my pet come in on an empty stomach?
It depends on the tests requested. For some blood tests, a fasting period is recommended because food can alter certain parameters or result in a sample containing too much fat, which can make it difficult to interpret.
Do not impose a fast on your own initiative, particularly in puppies, kittens, diabetic animals, frail pets or pets taking medication. Check beforehand how many hours they should go without food and whether they can drink water or take their usual medication.
You should also mention any medication, supplements, changes to your diet or recent illnesses, as this information may influence the choice and interpretation of the tests.
How is the blood sample taken?
The sample is taken from a vein in a leg or the neck, depending on the animal’s size, temperament and condition. The procedure is usually quick and may require shaving a small area to facilitate the extraction and ensure proper hygiene.
Most dogs and cats do not require sedation. When a patient is very frightened, in pain or finds it difficult to keep still, the team adapts their approach to minimise stress and ensure the sample is taken safely.
A small bruise may appear after the extraction, although this is not common. If the area bleeds, becomes swollen or causes persistent discomfort, you should contact the clinic.
When to make an appointment in Benivet Benissa
Ask for a check-up if your pet is showing symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, changes in urine, fever or loss of appetite. You can also seek advice if your pet is approaching senior age, is due to have an operation, or needs to manage a medical condition or treatment.
At Benivet Benissa, we assess which laboratory tests are appropriate and whether they should be supplemented with urine tests, imaging scans or other investigations. The aim is to obtain useful information for each individual case, whilst avoiding unnecessary tests.
If you’d like to have your dog or cat’s blood tested and you live in Benissa, Calpe or the Marina Alta, you can Contact Benivet Benissa to book a vet’s appointment.
Benivet Benissa
Av. del País Valencià, 10, 03720 Benissa
Tel. +34 622 325 271
Email: info@benivetbenissa.com
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-18:30 - Sat 10:00-13:00
