Cat & Dog - Routine Laboratory Tests 1.

Regular routine check-ups for our pets often leads to a longer pain free life since, they can give an early indication of impending problems.  For middle aged and older animals these check-ups should be carried out annually even if the pet appears perfectly healthy.

What is involved?

Initially a careful history is taken.  Be sure to mention anything you have noticed (i.e. a change in behaviour, increased thirst, urination, etc.).  A routine physical examination then follows.  A blood sample can usually be obtained at this time and we will also need a urine sample.  Sometimes we may ask you to bring in samples of both urine and faeces.  At the same time we can administer a booster vaccination if required.

What are the samples tested for?

• Routine blood tests include a complete blood count, (CBC) together with a biochemistry profile.  These tests can give an early indication of possible problems, such as anaemia, infection, liver and kidney problems.
• A faeces sample will indicate the presence of intestinal roundworms, tapeworms or other endoparasites and also give an indication as to the state of digestion.
• A urine sample will often give an indication of the onset of kidney or liver problems and also diabetes mellitus (DM, sugar diabetes).  These are problems which are not uncommon in the older pet.
• Bile acid tests usually involve separate blood samples.  Bile acids are manufactured by the liver, stored in the gall bladder and are important in the digestion of fats.  Their basic function is to break down large fat molecules into smaller particles that are more easily absorbed into the bloodstream.  During this process they are not themselves digested but are absorbed with the digested fats into the bloodstream and returned to the liver where they are extracted and returned once more to the gall bladder.  A sample is taken from the fasted animal and then two hours after a meal.  The results are then compared.  If the liver is working normally the two bile acid results will be very similar indicating that the liver and its blood supply are within normal limits.  Abnormal results may indicate the need for further testing in order to tryto ascertain the cause.  Problems with digestion are not uncommon in older cats and dogs.  If caught in time, minor attention to diet is frequently all that is necessary in the first instance.    
• Depending on the history and physical examination sometimes routine thyroid tests are also carried out, particularly in the case of cats.  

Why is this necessary?

The thyroid gland can be likened to the accelerator in a car.  It sets the rate at which the whole body works.  The most common thyroid disease in the dog is hypothyroidism, a 'lazy thyroid' when insufficient thyroid hormone is produced.  This can cause obesity, lassitude and skin changes.

In the cat hyperthyroidism is relatively common.  With this condition too much thyroid hormone is produced.  This often results in a nervous, excitable cat which eats ravenously and does not put on weight.  Tests will often reveal the early onset of these problems and appropriate treatment can then be administered.

How do I obtain the faeces and urine samples?

We will supply you with appropriate containers and instructions.  If you have difficulties do not hesitate to let us know, we appreciate that some cats and dogs resent interference when toileting!  If you are unsuccessful we will admit your pet for a few hours in order to obtain a sample.

What happens next?

Once we have obtained the results we will discuss these with you and, where appropriate, supply further handouts.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries about these tests.