Pet Laboratory Services

Blood work is one of the most important diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine. Whether it’s part of a routine check-up or used to investigate symptoms, blood testing gives us essential information about your pet’s internal health—often before any signs of illness are visible.

We commonly recommend blood work for:

• Routine wellness screenings to detect early signs of disease and establish baseline values
• Pre-anesthetic evaluations to ensure your pet is healthy enough for sedation or surgery
• Monitoring chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or liver disease
• Checking for infections or inflammation, which can affect immune function and overall health
• Tracking medication safety, especially for long-term prescriptions that may affect the liver or kidneys

Common blood panels include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates red and white blood cells, platelets, and helps detect infection, anemia, or immune issues
• Blood Chemistry Panel: Assesses organ function (liver, kidneys, pancreas), electrolyte levels, and glucose
• Thyroid Function Tests: Identifies hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism (dogs) or hyperthyroidism (cats)
• Blood Clotting Tests: Helps diagnose clotting disorders or assess bleeding risk prior to surgery

Cats vs. Dogs

There are a few species-specific differences in how we interpret and approach blood testing:

• Cats are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism and may hide signs of illness longer—making routine blood work especially important for early detection.
• Dogs are more commonly affected by hypothyroidism, and larger breeds may have different normal ranges for some values.
• Certain conditions—like breed-related anemias or platelet differences—also vary between species and are interpreted accordingly by our team.

Blood work is safe, quick, and often painless—and it provides the foundation for smarter, more informed veterinary care.
To see how blood work fits into preventive care, visit our Wellness Care page.
For more complex cases and chronic disease management, visit our Internal Medicine page.

Urinalysis is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides insight into your pet’s kidney function, hydration status, and overall metabolic health. It’s commonly used as part of routine wellness screening, as well as to help diagnose symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, or urinary accidents.

We analyze your pet’s urine to check for:

• Infections of the bladder or urinary tract
• Kidney disease or early signs of kidney dysfunction
• Diabetes, through the presence of glucose or ketones in the urine
• Crystals or bladder stones, which can lead to discomfort or obstruction
• Protein loss, which may signal underlying kidney or systemic disease
• Urine concentration, to assess hydration and kidney-concentrating ability

Whenever possible, we recommend collecting a first-morning urine sample, as it tends to be more concentrated and provides the most accurate assessment of kidney function and urinary health.

Cats vs. Dogs
While the core components of urinalysis are the same across species, there are a few important differences:

• Cats are more prone to urinary crystals, stress-related bladder inflammation (feline idiopathic cystitis), and lower urinary tract disease.
• Dogs may be more likely to develop urinary tract infections, especially in females or senior dogs.
• Cats are also more challenging to obtain samples from at home—so we may collect a sterile sample during your visit when needed.

Urinalysis is quick, non-invasive, and an important part of catching issues early—before your pet shows visible signs of illness.

To learn more about how urinalysis supports preventive care, visit our Wellness Care page.

For pets with urinary issues or chronic disease, see our Internal Medicine page.

Fecal testing is a vital part of your pet’s preventive health care. It helps us identify intestinal parasites that can impact your pet’s comfort, nutrition, and long-term health—and in some cases, pose a risk to other pets or people in the household.

We recommend fecal testing:

• Routinely as part of annual wellness exams
• For puppies and kittens, who are at higher risk for parasites
• For newly adopted pets, especially if prior care is unknown
• When symptoms are present, such as diarrhea, weight loss, vomiting, scooting, or poor coat condition

At Mount Carmel Animal Hospital, we use a single comprehensive test that combines:

• Ova & Parasite (O&P) Testing: Identifies parasite eggs and protozoa through microscopic evaluation.
• Antigen Testing: Detects parasite proteins (antigens) for earlier and more accurate identification—even when eggs aren’t being shed.

This combined approach increases sensitivity and helps ensure we catch infections that might otherwise go undetected.

We routinely screen for:

• Worms: Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms
• Protozoa: Giardia, coccidia, Cystoisospora, Cryptosporidium

Additional testing when indicated:

• Bacterial Culture & Sensitivity: Used to identify harmful bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment in cases of chronic or severe gastrointestinal illness.

Cats vs. Dogs

• Kittens are commonly affected by roundworms and coccidia, often acquired from their mother
• Outdoor cats and hunters are more likely to contract tapeworms
• Dogs are more frequently exposed to parasites through contaminated soil, water, or communal spaces like parks and daycare
• Cats may show subtle or no signs of infection, while dogs are more likely to exhibit noticeable digestive symptoms

Fecal testing is simple, non-invasive, and an important step in protecting your pet’s health—and the health of your home.

To learn how fecal screening fits into proactive care, visit our Wellness Care page.

For pets with ongoing digestive issues, see our Internal Medicine page.

Microbiology testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing infections and guiding effective treatment. When your pet is showing signs of illness—especially involving the skin, ears, urinary tract, or internal organs—cultures and sensitivity testing help us identify exactly what’s causing the problem and how to treat it.

We use microbiology and culture testing to:

• Identify the type of infection, including bacterial, fungal, or in some cases, viral agents
• Determine the most effective medication by performing antibiotic sensitivity testing—this shows which antibiotics are likely to work (or not work) against the specific organism
• Track treatment progress, especially in cases of recurring or resistant infections

Common sample types include:

• Urine cultures for persistent urinary tract infections or when initial antibiotics fail
• Ear and skin cultures to pinpoint the cause of chronic or severe infections
• Wound cultures for deep or non-healing wounds
• Fecal cultures when gastrointestinal symptoms may be caused by pathogenic bacteria
• Respiratory cultures in cases of chronic coughing or nasal discharge

These tests are especially important when:

• An infection doesn’t improve with initial treatment
• Your pet has had repeated infections, raising concern for resistant organisms
• We want to avoid unnecessary or ineffective antibiotic use, which can contribute to antimicrobial resistanc

Cats vs. Dogs

• Dogs are more prone to recurring ear and skin infections due to allergies or moisture exposure
• Cats may develop abscesses from bite wounds or infections related to upper respiratory viruses
• Both species can develop urinary tract infections, but in cats, symptoms often overlap with non-infectious conditions—making cultures critical for accurate diagnosis

Microbiology and culture testing allows us to move from guesswork to precision—ensuring your pet receives the right treatment, faster, and helping reduce the risk of chronic or resistant infections.

To learn more about diagnosing and managing persistent infections, visit our Internal Medicine page.

Cytology and pathology are powerful diagnostic tools that help us evaluate cells and tissues under the microscope to detect infection, inflammation, or cancer. These tests are especially useful for investigating lumps, skin issues, ear infections, and internal abnormalities.

We may recommend cytology or pathology when your pet has:

• A new or changing lump or mass
• Chronic or recurring skin issues, rashes, or sores
• Ear infections that don’t resolve with standard treatment
• Fluid buildup (such as in the chest, abdomen, or joints)
• Unexplained symptoms like swelling, weight loss, or persistent coughing

Our process includes:

• Cytology: A quick, minimally invasive test using samples collected via fine needle aspiration, skin scraping, swabs, or impression smears. We evaluate the sample in-house or send it to a reference lab to examine the types of cells present. Cytology can identify:
  • Infections (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic)
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Benign or malignant tumors
• Histopathology: If we surgically remove a mass or biopsy tissue, we submit it to a veterinary pathologist for detailed analysis. This provides a definitive diagnosis, including tumor type, grade, and margins—critical information for treatment planning.

These diagnostics help us answer important questions:

• What is this lump or lesion?
• Is it infectious, inflammatory, or cancerous?
• Does it need to be removed, treated, or monitored?

Cats vs. Dogs

• Dogs commonly develop benign skin growths as they age, though cancerous tumors are also possible
• Cats are more likely to develop aggressive or rapidly progressing tumors, making early diagnosis especially important
• Skin and ear cytology is useful for both species, but cats may show subtler signs of skin disease, especially when stres/pet-surgical-services-monkton-md/s-related or immune-mediated

By evaluating what’s happening at the cellular level, cytology and pathology allow us to diagnose conditions sooner—and guide the most appropriate next steps for your pet.

For more information on managing complex or unexplained symptoms, visit our Internal Medicine page.

If a mass needs to be removed or biopsied, learn more about next steps on our Surgery page.

Serology and immunology testing are used to detect the presence of infectious diseases and assess your pet’s immune response. These tests work by identifying antibodies or antigens in the blood, which indicate exposure to specific viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens.

We use serologic tests to:

• Diagnose infectious diseases that may not be detected through standard blood work or cultures
• Screen for exposure to diseases in healthy pets, especially when required for boarding, travel, or preventive care
• Monitor vaccine response or disease progression, particularly in chronic or viral infections

Common tests include:

• Heartworm Testing: Detects heartworm antigens in dogs and, when needed, antibodies in cats
• Tick-Borne Disease Panel: Screens for infections like Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma, all of which can cause chronic illness if not caught early
• Feline Virus Screening: Identifies exposure to Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)—two important viruses that affect long-term immune health
• Canine Parvovirus Testing: Used in symptomatic dogs (especially puppies) to confirm this highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease
• Vaccine Titers (when applicable): In select cases, we can measure antibody levels to determine if a booster is needed, though this is not a replacement for core vaccines in most cases

Cats vs. Dogs

• Cats are regularly screened for FeLV and FIV, especially before introducing them to other cats or if they go outdoors
• Dogs are more commonly tested for heartworm and tick-borne diseases, particularly if they spend time outside or in wooded areas
• Cats may show fewer or more subtle signs of these diseases, making routine screening even more important in apparently healthy felines

Serology and immunology tests allow us to catch infections early, prevent disease spread, and protect your pet’s long-term immune health—with fast, reliable results.

For more on how we prevent and detect disease early, visit our Wellness Care page.

For support in diagnosing and managing infections or chronic conditions, see our Internal Medicine page.

Endocrinology focuses on the diagnosis and management of hormonal (endocrine) disorders—conditions in which your pet’s body is producing too much or too little of a particular hormone. These imbalances can affect metabolism, organ function, behavior, and quality of life.

We use endocrine testing to:

• Diagnose hormone-related diseases like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and adrenal dysfunction
• Monitor response to treatment, especially for chronic conditions
• Track disease progression and adjust medication as needed

Common endocrine conditions include:

• Diabetes Mellitus: Caused by a lack of insulin or insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar.
  • Signs: Increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite normal or increased appetite, lethargy
  • Diagnosis: Blood glucose, fructosamine, and urine testing
  • Ongoing monitoring: Blood glucose curves, at-home glucose testing, and urinalysis
• Hypothyroidism (more common in dogs): Caused by low thyroid hormone production
  • Signs: Lethargy, weight gain, hair thinning, skin issues, cold intolerance
  • Diagnosis: Total T4, Free T4, and TSH levels
• Hyperthyroidism (more common in cats): Caused by overproduction of thyroid hormone
  • Signs: Weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, restlessness, elevated heart rate
  • Diagnosis: Total T4 and sometimes Free T4
• Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): Caused by excess cortisol production
  • Signs: Increased thirst and urination, pot-bellied appearance, thinning skin, hair loss
  • Diagnosis: ACTH stimulation test, low-dose dexamethasone suppression test, ultrasound
• Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism): Caused by deficient cortisol and aldosterone
  • Signs: Weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, collapse (especially during stress)
  • Diagnosis: ACTH stimulation test, electrolytes, baseline cortisol

Cats vs. Dogs

• Dogs are more prone to hypothyroidism, Cushing’s, and Addison’s disease
• Cats are more commonly affected by hyperthyroidism and diabetes
• Endocrine disorders can look different across species, so species-specific reference ranges and testing approaches are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment

Endocrine testing allows us to catch these conditions early, tailor treatment, and monitor your pet’s progress—helping them stay comfortable, active, and healthy.

For more on how we prevent and detect disease early, visit our Wellness Care page.

For more information on diagnosing and managing chronic hormonal conditions, visit our Internal Medicine page.

Genetic testing helps us identify inherited conditions, breed-specific risks, and underlying causes of certain health issues. While not every pet needs genetic screening, it can provide valuable information—especially for pets with unusual symptoms, those from breeds with known predispositions, or for proactive care planning.

We use genetic testing to:

• Screen for inherited diseases, such as heart conditions, clotting disorders, or degenerative diseases
• Identify breed-specific health risks, which can guide early detection and preventive care
• Clarify unexplained symptoms, especially when standard diagnostics haven’t revealed a cause
• Support breeding decisions, for those working with responsible breeders focused on genetic health
• Confirm breed ancestry, when needed to interpret health risks or plan long-term care

Examples of conditions that may be identified through genetic testing include:

• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dog breeds
• Multidrug sensitivity (MDR1 mutation) that affects medication metabolism
• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in Persian and related cats
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which leads to vision loss in both dogs and cats
• Von Willebrand disease, a genetic clotting disorder
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), especially in Maine Coons and Ragdolls

Genetic testing is typically performed with a simple cheek swab or blood sample, and results are processed through specialty veterinary labs.

Cats vs. Dogs

• Purebred cats (especially Persian, Siamese, and Maine Coons) may carry mutations linked to kidney disease, heart disease, or inherited blindness
• Dogs from certain breeds (e.g., Boxers, Dobermans, Australian Shepherds) may be at higher risk for breed-specific heart, neurological, or drug sensitivity issues
• Mixed breed pets may benefit from DNA panels to better understand their ancestry and potential health risks—especially when preventive care or early screening can make a difference

Genetic testing isn’t just about predicting problems—it’s about empowering smarter, more personalized care for your pet throughout their life.

For more information on how genetic conditions may affect your pet’s health, see our pages on Internal Medicine and Cardiac Care.