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Wellness testing is a program of check-ups and blood tests designed to detect early or hidden disease in pets that appear to be healthy.
Why do wellness testing?
Cats are very good at masking illness, and disease may be present even in animals that appear to be healthy. If a disease or condition can be detected before a cat shows signs of illness, then steps can often be taken to manage or correct the problem before permanent damage occurs.
When is wellness testing done?
Wellness testing should be done on a regular basis, and many pet owners combine wellness testing with their cat’s annual visit to the veterinarian for physical examination and vaccinations. Your veterinarian may recommend more frequent testing depending on your cat’s age or specific health concerns. Monitoring your pet’s health status on a regular basis makes it easier for the veterinarian to detect minor changes that signal the onset of disease.
What is involved in wellness testing?
There are three main categories of wellness testing for young to middle aged cats: complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry profile, and urinalysis. Your veterinarian will advise you on how extensive the testing should be for your cat. In younger cats without noticeable health complaints, relatively simple testing may be adequate. In middle-aged cats, more comprehensive testing may be beneficial.
Complete Blood Count
This simple test gives information about the different cell types in the blood. These include red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the tissues, white blood cells, which fight infection and respond to inflammation, and platelets, which help the blood to clot. The CBC provides details about the number, size, and shape of the various cells types, and identifies the presence of any abnormal cells. It is a routine test used in all stages of health and illness and can indicate the presence of many forms of disease. (See Complete Blood Count).
Biochemistry Profile
This is a panel of tests that provides information about the organs and tissues of the body and helps to detect diabetes and various other disorders. (See Serum Biochemistry).
If minor abnormalities are found on the biochemistry profile, the veterinarian may ask you to repeat the tests in a few days, weeks, or months. If the abnormalities are more serious, then a more extensive diagnostic workup may be recommended, including an expanded biochemistry profile and special tests including x-rays or ultrasound.
Urinalysis
Urinalysis is a routine test that reports the physical and chemical properties of a pet’s urine (see Urinalysis). The test provides information about how well the kidneys are working, identifies inflammation and infection in the urinary system, and helps to detect diabetes. Urinalysis is part of any comprehensive assessment of the kidneys and urinary system and should be included in routine wellness testing.
Summary
Wellness testing is a simple and effective way of monitoring your cat’s health. Early detection and correction of medical problems help to ensure that your pet will have a long, healthy, and active life.
This client information sheet is based on material written by:
© Copyright 2015 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license.
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