4 Basic Tests Your Pet Needs Over Their Lifetime

25 June 2017
 Categories: , Blog


Taking your pet to visit their vet is important during their lifetime. Just like humans, pets need regular check ups, especially since pets generally tend to hide any symptoms of an illness they are suffering, which means things can get a whole lot worse before they are noticed. This is why it's important not only for regular check ups, but also to allow your vet to run some basic tests over the course of your pet's lifetime. These basic tests include:

  1. CBC: CBC stands for a complete blood count. This is done to test for certain problems such as anemia, blood clotting, and even some types of cancer. If there is a problem with the results of the test, your vet will want to bring your pet in for further testing. Most likely, it's a problem with diet, which can be changed. However, if it is cancer, you likely caught it early and it can be treated as quickly as possible. 
  2. Thyroid Panel: This test is typically done on older dogs, so if it's suggested for your dog in their old age, it's important to adhere. The reason being that older dogs tend to suffer from hyperthyroidism and a thyroid panel will test for that. This way, your dog can be put on a proper diet and medication to allow your dog to live out the remainder of their years as comfortably as possible. 
  3. Fecal and Urine Tests: Don't be alarmed if your vet asks for a urine or fecal test when you bring your pet in. The reason for this is that it tests for infection and other problems with parasites, and more. These problems are the most common to be hidden by your pet until it is too late. These tests are typically done if it's been a while since your pet has been seen or if you have recently brought the pet into your home and they haven't had testing like this done previously. 
  4. Specific Disease Screenings: Finally, your pet is almost always going to be screened for heartworm, ticks, and, if you have a cat, feline leukemia. The reason for this is that they are the most common deadly problems that pets have. So screenings are extremely important for early detection and treatment. 

Now that you know the four basic tests, you can better understand why they may be suggested at your next appointment with your pet's vet. Call your local veterinary clinic today to see if your pet needs any follow-up testing.


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