Very often during a routine visit to the vet, you will be advised to get a blood test done on your pet. Because the blood work involves extra cost, many pet owners are hesitant to agree to this. However, blood work is very important for your furry friend.

Here are some of the important reasons why a vet will require that blood work is done.

Check your pet’s general health

Even healthy pets need to get bloodwork done as this gives your vet a baseline to compare future blood test results.

Identify disease early

Bloodwork on your pet is important to identify disease in its early stage before other physical symptoms show up. For example, certain enzymes, proteins, glucose, and white blood cells may indicate that your pet may have a condition that requires treatment.

Usually, liver disease, diabetes, anemia, and kidney problems show up in bloodwork.

Very often, if these diseases are caught early enough, they can be much easier to treat and manage.

Required before surgery

Your vet will usually require that bloodwork is done before any surgery. This helps to be sure that all the vital organs are functioning properly and reduce the risks connected with anesthesia.

Check for viruses and parasites

If you have noticed that your pet is “off color” or just not acting themselves, they could have a viral or parasite infection.

For example, in dogs, heartworm caused by mosquito bites and Lymes disease causedby ticks can be discovered early with the appropriate blood tests.

Cats are prone to feline leukemia and FIV and the proper blood test will detect if your furry friend requires treatment.

Bloodwork for Pets

So, if your vet advises the bloodwork be carried out on your pet, it is always the best course of action to get this done. Even if the bloodwork doesn’t show up any abnormalities, you will have the peace of mind that your furry friend is in the best of health.