What You Can’t See Could Hurt Your Pet: Why Bloodwork Matters
Pets can be masters at hiding discomfort. A wagging tail or a purring stretch can make it easy to assume all is well, but internal health doesn’t always show on the surface. At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center in Milpitas, California, annual bloodwork is one of the most reliable ways to monitor a pet’s well-being quietly and proactively.
This guide explores why routine blood tests are essential, what they reveal, and how they fit into a preventive health plan that keeps your pet active, comfortable, and thriving.
What Is Included in Annual Bloodwork?
Several key panels make up a routine wellness bloodwork profile. Each panel offers insight into specific body systems.
Complete Blood Count
The complete blood count evaluates red blood cells for anemia, white blood cells for infection or inflammation, and platelets for clotting ability. A high white blood cell count may indicate infection or immune response, while low red blood cell counts can signal chronic disease or nutritional deficiencies.
Biochemical Chemistry Panel
The chemistry panel measures organ-function markers. Liver enzymes such as ALT and ALP show liver health, while kidney values- particularly blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine- reflect kidney function. Electrolytes like sodium and potassium reveal hydration and electrolyte balance. Abnormal chemistry results guide diagnostics and treatment.
Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and energy. In dogs, low thyroid levels can cause weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. In cats, hyperthyroidism often presents as weight loss with a ravenous appetite. We assess total T4 and may perform free T4 or thyroid-stimulating hormone tests. Detecting thyroid imbalance early lets us begin medication and diet changes before complications- such as high blood pressure and heart enlargement- can set in, protecting long-term health.
Kidney Markers: BUN and Creatinine
BUN and creatinine are the primary markers we monitor for kidney health. Rising levels can indicate impaired filtration well before outward signs appear, allowing us to intervene early and slow progression of chronic kidney disease in cats. Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) provides an additional layer of sensitivity but is interpreted alongside BUN and creatinine rather than on its own. When we identify kidney changes sooner, we can introduce prescription renal diets, maintain optimal hydration, and adjust medications- steps that significantly delay further decline and keep pets comfortable.
Blood Glucose and Fructosamine
Blood glucose measurement is critical for detecting diabetes. We may also measure fructosamine to evaluate average glucose control over the previous weeks. Identifying consistently high or even high-normal glucose flags pets that would benefit from an immediate diet and exercise plan, helping prevent progression to full-blown diabetes and related emergencies.
Why Annual Bloodwork Matters for Every Life Stage
Annual bloodwork supports pets at all stages- from young adults to seniors.
Establishing Baseline Values for Young Adults
Healthy adult pets benefit from baseline testing. When results are normal and documented, future bloodwork can be compared to these individual baselines, making trends such as gradually rising kidney values more meaningful. Baselines also uncover congenital issues, such as polycystic kidney disease, that might otherwise remain silent. Bloodwork helps us confirm a pet is safe for surgery procedures like spay, neuter, or urgent interventions when there isn’t time for a full panel.
Preventive Testing in Senior Pets
Preventive testing in senior pets catches conditions such as kidney decline, liver disease, some cancers, thyroid dysfunction, or latent infections before symptoms surface. We can also have reassurance that their body can handle certain medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for arthritis pain.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions and Adjusting Medication Dosages Safely
Blood test results directly influence your pet’s care plan. Pets on long-term medications require periodic bloodwork to confirm that dosages remain safe for the liver and kidneys, and that their doses remain at therapeutic levels. Proactive dose adjustments reduce the risk of side effects and support ongoing management of chronic conditions.
Advanced Diagnostic Technology at AVMC
Our on-site diagnostics suite delivers comprehensive care through:
- Digital X-ray for bone, joint, and chest evaluations
- Ultrasound for real-time assessment of abdominal organs, heart chambers, and soft tissues
- Dental radiology to visualize tooth roots and jawbone health
- In-house laboratory providing many blood results within minutes
Rapid, accurate evaluations reduce the need for multiple visits and speed up treatment decisions.
Annual Wellness Visit: Exam and Bloodwork in One Efficient Appointment
Annual bloodwork gains its full power when paired with a hands-on physical exam during your pet’s wellness and prevention visit. While lab tests uncover hidden internal changes, your veterinarian also checks for outward clues- weight fluctuations, dental disease, new lumps or bumps, skin conditions, and mobility changes- that may never show on a blood panel. By combining these perspectives, we build a detailed picture of overall health and can intervene before minor issues become major problems.
Scheduling and Pre-Visit Preparation
Bloodwork and a wellness exam are scheduled together for convenience. Ask us if your pet should fast beforehand so we can collect the most accurate samples.
Sample Collection and Testing
A skilled veterinary technician collects a small blood sample from a front or rear leg vein, or from the jugular vein in the neck when larger volumes are required. Our in-house laboratory delivers many results within minutes, and we partner with trusted external labs for specialized testing.
Reviewing Results Together
Your veterinarian reviews the bloodwork with you, explains any abnormalities, and outlines next steps. Clear education empowers you to make informed decisions about treatments and preventive measures.
Follow-Up and Long-Term Monitoring
If results indicate a developing condition, we design a follow-up plan that may include repeat bloodwork, additional imaging, referrals, or medication adjustments. We are committed to guiding you through every step of your pet’s health journey.
Recognizing When to Seek Veterinary Care
Annual bloodwork is essential, but certain clinical signs require immediate evaluation:
- Increased thirst or urination
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite or difficulty eating
- Lethargy, weakness, or collapse
- Recurring infections or unexplained fever
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact us about urgent care right away.
Building a Partnership for Your Pet’s Health
At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we view every appointment as a collaborative effort. By pairing routine bloodwork with comprehensive physical exams- and by discussing your pet’s day-to-day habits- we can detect subtle changes early, tailor care plans precisely, and protect long-term health.
If you have questions or would like to arrange your pet’s next visit, please reach out through our contact page. We look forward to supporting you in keeping your companion healthy and comfortable for years to come.
Leave A Comment