Blood Screening
By Daniela Svensson - Veterinary Nurse.
Why is Blood Screening Important?
Blood testing helps us understand the health of our pets as they cannot tell us directly what is wrong, especially when they seem poorly but also as a routine check to ensure everything is ok. Detecting diseases and problems early on is essential to prevent and control them from progressively worsening by providing effective treatment plans.
Blood testing provides the veterinarian with information about your pet's nutrition and deficiencies and allows them to help accordingly.
Blood tests are sent to overseas laboratories or processed here in Malta.
It gives us detailed information about hydration status, infection, immune system response, blood clotting ability, viral infections, heartworm, liver function, and anaemia.
Preparing for a Blood Test
Veterinarians may recommend fasting 6 hours before the blood test. Certain cases might require lengthier periods of fasting times.
Fasting is in place due to fat droplets known as lipemia, appearing after eating that affect the results of the blood tests. Water should be available at all times. Your veterinarian might advise you to hold off on your pets’ medication until the blood samples are done.
House visits are a fantastic way for your pet to feel less stressed and comfortable while having its blood taken. If your animal is anxious or assertive, your veterinarian might give specific instructions to acquire blood samples without causing stress for your pet.
Restrict your animal from exercise before a blood screening as the blood values can be affected.
Complete Blood Count
A complete blood count (CBC) helps veterinarians assess the health of your animal, whether they are sick or healthy. It involves measuring the number of cells that make up the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body with the help of a protein called haemoglobin. Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood; if this is too low, it may indicate anaemia.
White blood cells help detect and fight infection, inflammation, or certain diseases. Platelets are responsible for ensuring proper blood clotting.
Chemistry
A chemistry blood test measures substances in the blood that help the body function properly. It evaluates glucose levels, electrolytes, kidney function, liver function, proteins, lipids (fats), calcium, and thyroid activity.
Glucose levels are used to check for diabetes or other metabolic disorders.
Electrolytes are essential for maintaining pH balance and proper body functions.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine help assess how effectively the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Bilirubin are used to evaluate liver function.
Total Protein, Albumin, and Globulins measure protein levels and help assess liver and kidney health.
Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) are used to evaluate fat (lipid) levels in the blood.
Calcium levels help assess bone health, nerve function, and the body’s ability to clot blood.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and Free Thyroxine (T4) are used to evaluate thyroid function.
How often should blood tests be carried out?
Blood tests are generally recommended every 6–12 months. However, your veterinarian may suggest more frequent testing to monitor or manage specific diseases or conditions.
Book your pet’s Blood Screening here in the comfort of your home.
For more information please contact info@thevetcentermalta.com
