As with any other diagnostic exam, the outcome of a CBC and chemistry profile are not explained in a vacuum.
Blood testing is commonly performed to help diagnose disease or identify animal injury. It can also help determine your pet’s health during routine physical exam visits. As with any other diagnostic exam, the outcome of a CBC and chemistry profile are not explained in a vacuum. In honor of Responsible Pet Ownership Month, let’s explore this procedure more.
What is a CBC?
The complete blood count, or CBC, measures the quality and quantity of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. It can help determine many things regarding your pet, such as whether he or she is hydrated, anemic, or experiencing an infection. The CBC results might list abbreviations for the different exams included in a CBC.
- HCT, or hematocrit, indicates the number of red blood cells present. A low HCT may indicate anemia, while a high one could mean dehydration.
- Hgb (the quantity of hemoglobin) can determine how well the red blood cells transfer oxygen to the animal’s body’s tissues.
- WBC, or the total white blood cell count, indicates the number of white blood cells that might increase when the body has an infection or inflammation. If the total number of WBCs is low, it could signify a severe illness or a bone marrow problem.
- PLT, or platelet count, is involved in the body’s blood clotting process. So, if the PLT number is low, the patient might have problems developing blood clots.
What is a Chemistry Profile?
The chemistry profile measures various chemicals and enzymes in the animal’s blood to provide general information regarding organ health and function status – especially of the kidneys, pancreas, and liver. In addition, the chemistry profile demonstrates the patient’s blood sugar level and quantities of essential electrolytes (molecules such as calcium, sodium, and potassium) in the blood.
What Does a Chemistry Profile Measure?
- Chemistry values that help provide data about the liver are ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALKP (alkaline phosphatase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and TBIL (total bilirubin).
- The chemistry values that help examine the kidneys include the CREA (creatinine), BUN (blood urea nitrogen), and SDMA (symmetric dimethylarginine). The SDMA detects kidney changes before the other tests, allowing for earlier intervention.
- Electrolytes are examined for quantity and proportion to other electrolytes. They include Ca (calcium), CI (chloride), K (potassium), Na (sodium), and PHOS (phosphorus). For instance, a low calcium level can lead to seizures or muscle tremors.
Importance of a CBC & Chemistry Profile
Completing a CBC and chemistry panel poses minimal risk for your pet. It’s also an essential part of wellness blood work. Even if your pet is young and healthy, conducting this testing occasionally helps establish “normal” values. A CBC and chemistry profile is often conducted very early during the diagnostic stage when a pet has clinical signs of an illness. Otherwise, your vet might recommend additional testing to get closer to a diagnosis if the CBC and chemistry profile results are inconclusive and abnormal.
HERE AT MOUNT CARMEL ANIMAL HOSPITAL, WE’LL TREAT YOUR PETS LIKE FAMILY!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook