THINGS WE DO
PATHOLOGY
At Evervet, we understand the anxiety that medical procedures can cause for both pets and their owners. That's why we've streamlined the pathology process to make it simple and stress-free for everyone involved.
We recognise the profound impact of clinical pathology in the precise analysis and diagnosis of specific health conditions in pets. These invaluable tests not only aid in tracking treatment progress but also uncover insights into organs that often remain uncharted during routine physical examinations.
Our comprehensive range of clinical pathology services is performed using cutting-edge lab equipment, with most biochemistry analyses and full blood count tests conducted onsite, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. From comprehensive blood tests and informative urinalysis to meticulous evaluations of faecal samples and the thorough scrutiny of biopsy specimens, each facet of our approach significantly contributes to safeguarding the well-being of your cherished companions.
Laboratory Testing
Our diverse array of tests includes:
Analysis for Addison's Disease and Cushing's Disease (Hypercortisolaemia and hypocortisolaemia)
Pancreatic lipase tests for pancreatitis assessment in felines and canines
Kidney and Liver Disease
Infections
Cancers
Diabetes
Hormonal Problems
Parvovirus and FIV/FeLV testing
Thyroid testing to assess hyperthyroidism in cats and hypothyroidism in dogs.
Preparation
To prepare for these tests, we recommend a two-fold approach.
Familiarise yourself with the procedure's purpose and significance. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide additional resources.
Ensure your pet arrives with an empty stomach, as this is crucial for accurate test results.
Anaesthetic Safety and Preventative Care
Our in-house laboratory facilities play a pivotal role in ensuring your pet's well-being, extending beyond their surgery. Through a straightforward in-house blood test conducted on the morning of the procedure, we gain valuable insights into your pet's liver and kidney function. These two vital organs are intricately involved in metabolising anaesthetic drugs.
The significance of a screening blood test transcends surgical preparations; it's a fundamental aspect of ongoing preventative health care. At Evervet, we advocate for a biannual blood test regimen, spacing them every six months. This practice is instrumental in early disease detection and holistic wellness maintenance, particularly among senior pets. With numerous diseases that affect older pets being manageable or even preventable when identified in their nascent stages, wellness blood tests emerge as a pivotal tool in safeguarding the health of our senior companions.
More information on Anaesthesia here
Urinalysis
What is Urinalysis?
Urinalysis is the examination of your pet's urine to evaluate its physical and chemical properties. The process involves analysing various components of the urine, including its colour, clarity, specific gravity, pH level, and presence of proteins, glucose, ketones, and other substances. Additionally, we look for the presence of red and white blood cells and bacteria, which can indicate potential infections or kidney issues.
What Do We Use It For?
Urinalysis is a vital diagnostic tool that helps us understand the health of your pet's urinary system and can provide valuable insights into potential underlying health conditions. A urinalysis is a valuable tool in diagnosing a wide range of health conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. It also helps us monitor the response to treatment for certain conditions and assess your pet's overall kidney function.
Our experienced veterinary team utilises advanced equipment and techniques to perform a comprehensive urinalysis, ensuring accurate results and prompt diagnosis. We take the time to explain the significance of the test results to you and discuss any necessary follow-up actions or treatments.
Blood Tests
Why are Blood Tests Necessary for Pets?
Our furry companions can't communicate when they're not feeling well. While regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and deworming are essential, they might not always reveal the internal functioning of your pet's organs. Among the various health assessments, blood tests stand out as highly diagnostic. They offer precise and timely insights into your pet's overall health.
What Insights Can Blood Tests Provide?
Blood tests delve into the performance of organs, the immune system, and the presence or activity of diseases. Some tests are designed to stimulate or suppress specific organs, enabling in-depth functional evaluations. Modern tests can even explore your pet's genetic makeup for potential diseases or infections.
Typical tests assess the liver, kidneys, and pancreas functions. Enzyme levels can also be examined, shedding light on possible muscle damage and inflammation. Analysis of red and white blood cells reveals hydration levels, anemia, inflammation or infection indicators, and your pet's immune responses.
When Might Your Pet Need a Blood Test?
There are various reasons your pet might require a blood test. These tests are valuable for identifying issues before administering anaesthesia, disease screening, identifying breed-specific ailments, or monitoring the effects of certain medications. For additional pre-operative information, click here.
How Frequently Should Pets Undergo Blood Tests?
Factors like your pet's age and health condition play a role in determining the need for blood tests. Conducting blood tests before anaesthesia, especially if any problems are suspected, is advisable. Due to pets aging much faster than humans (about seven years for every human year), an annual screening to catch developing conditions early is highly recommended.
How Are Blood Tests Conducted?
Blood tests can be seamlessly performed during a routine consultation. Your veterinarian will trim a small patch of hair from your pet's limb or neck and disinfect the area with an alcohol swab. A tiny amount of blood is collected using a syringe needle, and then carefully placed into specialised tubes for processing, either on-site or at an external laboratory. Thankfully, animals typically don't seem to feel the needles as humans do, making the process quick and painless.
If you have concerns about your pet's health, particularly if they're entering their senior years, consider scheduling a consultation with Evervet today.
Health considerations
Disease Prevention
Pathology tests in animals are crucial for early disease detection, monitoring health, preventing disease transmission, assessing vaccination effectiveness, identifying emerging diseases, supporting research, and guiding treatment plans. These tests play a key role in disease prevention, helping veterinarians manage and protect animal populations effectively.
Viral Dieases
Common pathology tests for viruses in dogs and cats include PCR, ELISA, serology, and virus isolation. Specific viruses affecting dogs include Parvovirus and Distemper, while cats can be affected by FeLV and FIV. Consult a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and appropriate testing based on symptoms. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential for prevention.
Kittens
Blood tests in kittens may include a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Blood Chemistry Panel, Blood Glucose Test, Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) tests, Thyroid Function Tests, Coagulation Profile, Serum Protein Electrophoresis, and Blood Pressure Measurement. The specific tests depend on the kitten's age, health, and any symptoms. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for a kitten's well-being.
Puppies
Blood tests for puppies, like a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Biochemical Profile, assess overall health, organ function, and detect issues such as anemia or infections. Additional tests may include thyroid function, heartworm, and parvovirus tests. Regular veterinary check-ups with appropriate blood tests are crucial for monitoring a puppy's health and detecting potential problems early on.
Rabbit & Ferrets
Common pathology tests for rabbits and ferrets include Complete Blood Count (CBC), Biochemical Profile, Urinalysis, Fecal Examination, X-rays, Histopathology, Serology, Molecular Testing, Blood Pressure Monitoring, and Endoscopy. These tests help diagnose diseases, monitor health, and ensure the well-being of these pets. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended.
Immune Boosting
Individual vitamin levels can be detected in blood tests (for example Vitamin B 12 in dogs and cats with chronic gastrointestinal disease). Supplementation of these deficient vitamins in the body can form part of a comprehensive management strategy for chronic illness.
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