Preventative Bloodwork

Why Preventive Bloodwork Matters

Pets age five to seven years for every human year, so health conditions can develop fast between visits. Diseases like kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid disorders often show no outward symptoms until they've progressed significantly. Many pets don't show signs of kidney disease until roughly 75% of function is already lost.

Bloodwork reveals what's happening internally before symptoms appear. A standard panel evaluates organ function, blood cell counts, electrolytes, and metabolic markers. Over time, these results establish a baseline unique to your pet, making it easier to catch subtle changes early.

What Bloodwork Measures

A typical panel includes a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and a Chemistry Panel. The CBC assesses red and white blood cells and platelets, flagging anemia, infection, or clotting issues. The Chemistry Panel evaluates liver enzymes, kidney values, blood glucose, and protein levels.

Additional testing may include thyroid screening, commonly recommended for dogs over seven and cats over ten; urinalysis to detect early kidney changes that bloodwork alone can miss; and pancreatic markers for conditions that are difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone.

Annual bloodwork is standard for healthy adult pets, usually paired with their wellness visit. Senior pets (around age 7 for dogs, 11 for cats) benefit from testing every 6 months. Bloodwork is also run before any procedure requiring anesthesia to confirm the liver and kidneys can safely process sedation.

Fast Results, Clear Answers

Our in-house lab handles many common tests on-site, with results often available the same day. For specialized panels, we work with reference laboratories, with results typically back within a few days. Once ready, our veterinary team will walk you through the findings and outline the next steps.

How often should my pet have bloodwork done? 

Annual bloodwork is standard for healthy adult pets. Senior pets (dogs over 7, cats over 10) benefit from every 6 months, since age-related conditions can develop quickly. Pets with chronic conditions may need more frequent monitoring as outlined in their treatment plan.

Does my pet need to fast before bloodwork? 

Usually, yes. Fasting for 8 to 12 hours before the draw helps ensure accurate readings, especially for blood sugar and liver values. Water is fine.

My pet seems healthy. Do they really need bloodwork? 

That's the ideal time. Bloodwork establishes a baseline of what's normal for your pet and catches problems before symptoms show. Many conditions, like early kidney disease, have no visible signs until they've already progressed.

What can bloodwork detect? 

Kidney and liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, infections, anemia, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and certain cancers. It also provides insight into immune function and overall metabolic health.

What happens if something abnormal shows up? 

An abnormal result doesn't always mean something serious. Some variations are normal for individual pets, and mild changes may only need monitoring. If something is concerning, your vet will explain what it means and walk through the next steps.

How much does bloodwork cost? 

Costs vary depending on the panel. Visit our [pricing page] for details on exam and testing fees.

Is the blood draw stressful for my pet? 

Most pets tolerate it well. The draw itself takes just a few seconds. If your pet is anxious, let your vet team know in advance so they can adjust their approach.

Can bloodwork be done during a regular wellness visit? 

Yes, and it's recommended. Combining bloodwork with an annual exam provides the most complete picture of your pet's health in a single visit.

At what age should bloodwork start? 

Baseline bloodwork is recommended around ages 1 to 2 to establish your pet's normal values. Annual screening is valuable from there. Once pets reach their senior years, more frequent testing helps catch changes early.

Should bloodwork be done before surgery or dental procedures? 

Yes. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork confirms that the liver and kidneys can safely process sedation. This is standard practice before any procedure requiring anesthesia and helps reduce risk.