Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
As a cat parent, nothing is more stressful than the uncertainty that comes with vet visits, especially when your veterinarian recommends a blood test. Understanding what a blood test entails can ease your worries and help you take proactive steps for your cat’s health.
In this blog, we’ll demystify cat blood tests, breaking down the most common types—like CBC, thyroid tests, and blood chemistry panels—and explaining how they help assess kidney function, liver health, and more. By the end, you’ll feel more informed and confident about managing your cat’s health.
Common Types of Cat Blood Tests Explained
When your vet recommends a blood test, they might use a variety of terms that can sound intimidating. Here's what they mean:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The CBC is one of the most common blood tests your vet might order. This test measures red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets. It’s essential for diagnosing conditions like anemia, infection, and inflammation.
Red Blood Cells (RBC): These cells transport oxygen throughout your cat’s body. Low RBC counts can indicate anemia or internal bleeding, while high counts might suggest dehydration.
White Blood Cells (WBC): These are the body’s defense against infection. A high WBC count could mean your cat is fighting an infection, inflammation, or, in rare cases, cancer.
Platelets: Platelets help the blood clot, and low levels could suggest clotting disorders or internal bleeding
2. Blood Chemistry Panel
The blood chemistry panel (also called a chem panel) provides insight into your cat’s organ function. This test measures various chemicals and enzymes in the blood to check on major organs like the kidneys and liver.
Kidney Function: Two key markers, creatinine and BUN (blood urea nitrogen), help assess how well your cat's kidneys are working. High levels of these markers often indicate kidney disease, which is especially common in older cats.
Liver Function: Enzymes like ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and bilirubin are used to check liver health. Elevated ALT or bilirubin levels can signal liver damage or bile duct issues.
Glucose: This measures your cat’s blood sugar levels. High levels could indicate diabetes, while low levels might signal other metabolic problems.
3. Thyroid Tests (T4 Test)
As cats age, they’re more prone to developing hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. The T4 test measures levels of thyroxine, the hormone responsible for metabolism. If your cat has unexplained weight loss, increased thirst, or hyperactivity, your vet might suggest this test.
What Do the Blood Test Results Mean?
Once your cat’s blood test results come in, it can be overwhelming to understand the numbers. Here's a breakdown of the most commonly discussed markers:
1. Creatinine and BUN
These are markers for kidney function. A high creatinine level suggests that the kidneys aren’t filtering waste as efficiently as they should, possibly due to kidney disease. Similarly, an elevated BUN can indicate kidney issues or dehydration.
2. ALT and Bilirubin
These markers provide a snapshot of your cat’s liver health. High ALT can signal liver damage, while high bilirubin may indicate bile duct blockages or liver dysfunction.
3. White Blood Cells (WBC)
Elevated WBC counts usually point to infection or inflammation. If your cat’s WBC count is abnormal, your vet will likely recommend further tests to pinpoint the cause.
4. T4 Levels
Elevated T4 levels confirm hyperthyroidism. This condition is common in senior cats and can cause a range of symptoms, from weight loss to behavioral changes.
Common Conditions Detected Through Blood Tests
While some blood tests are done as part of routine health checks, others are specifically ordered to investigate symptoms or monitor ongoing conditions. Here are some common conditions that blood work can reveal:
1. Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is common in older cats and can be detected through elevated levels of creatinine and BUN. Blood work helps catch kidney problems early, allowing for more effective management through diet, hydration, and medications.
2. Hyperthyroidism
Blood tests measuring T4 levels help diagnose hyperthyroidism, a condition that causes increased metabolism in cats. Common symptoms include weight loss, increased thirst, and irritability. Once diagnosed, hyperthyroidism can be managed with medications or, in some cases, surgery.
3. Diabetes
Elevated glucose levels in blood tests can indicate diabetes, a condition that affects a cat’s ability to regulate blood sugar. If caught early, diabetes can often be managed through diet and medication
Why Routine Blood Work Matters
Even if your cat seems healthy, routine blood tests can be a lifesaver. Early detection of diseases like kidney disease, liver disease, or hyperthyroidism allows for more effective treatment, potentially extending your cat's life. For example, cats with early-stage kidney disease often don’t show symptoms, but blood tests can catch the disease before it progresses
Have Questions about Your Cat's Blood Test Results?
We can help! At EverPal, we take the time to explain the results so you can make the most informed decision for your cat's health. EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your kitty same-day for any concerns about your cat's health.
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