Why Every Pet Should Have a Comprehensive Blood Test
As humans, we visit our GP regularly for health checks and blood tests to catch potential issues early. At Vetmed, we believe our pets deserve the same proactive approach, because preventative care is the key to a happy healthy pet.
While vaccinations, parasite control and routine health checks are well-known parts of preventative care, comprehensive blood tests are equally important, giving our expert vets a window into your pet’s internal health. These tests help detect age-related or chronic conditions early, giving your pet the best chance of timely intervention and a longer, healthier life.
What Is a Comprehensive Blood Test?
A comprehensive blood test analyses different components of your pet’s blood to assess how their organs and systems are functioning. It typically includes:
- Haematology, which looks at red and white blood cells and platelets
- Biochemistry, which evaluates organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and muscles
- Electrolytes, which help assess hydration and metabolic balance
Together, these results give us a detailed snapshot of your pet’s overall health.
Why Blood Tests Matter (Even When Your Pet Seems Healthy)
Pets are incredibly good at hiding illness. By the time symptoms like lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, or changes in appetite appear, disease may already be well established. Blood tests help us identify subtle changes long before your pet looks or acts unwell.
Early detection can mean:
- Catching kidney or liver disease in its earliest stages
- Identifying infections or inflammation before they become severe
- Spotting hormonal disorders, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, early
- Establishing baseline “normal” values unique to your pet
Having this baseline is especially valuable. If your pet becomes unwell later, we can compare results and quickly identify what has changed.
A Key Part of Preventative Care at Every Life Stage
Blood testing isn’t just for sick or senior pets, it plays an important role throughout your pet’s life.
For young pets, blood tests can confirm that organs are developing normally and provide reassurance before procedures like desexing.
For adult pets, routine blood screening helps us pick up early disease, even when your pet appears perfectly healthy.
For senior pets, regular blood testing is essential. As pets age, conditions like kidney disease, arthritis-related inflammation, and endocrine disorders become more common. Early intervention can significantly improve quality of life and slow disease progression.
When Should Your Pet Have a Blood Test?
- Preventative comprehensive blood tests at key life stages – years 2, 5, 7, 9 and yearly from 10 into their senior years.
- Before surgery or dental procedures
- If your pet shows subtle changes in behaviour or appetite
- To monitor ongoing medical conditions
Your vet will tailor recommendations based on your pet’s age, breed, lifestyle, and medical history.
Fast Results for Peace of Mind
All Vetmed clinics are equipped with in-house pathology machines, allowing us to perform blood and urine tests and receive results in as little as 20 minutes. This means:
- Less waiting and less stress for you
- Faster diagnosis and treatment for your pet
- No delays associated with external laboratory processing
Whether it’s a routine wellness screen or an urgent concern, having rapid access to results allows us to act quickly and confidently.
The Vetmed Approach to Preventative Health
At Vetmed, we believe preventative care is about staying one step ahead. Blood testing gives us invaluable information that helps protect your pet’s health now and into the future. Combined with regular check-ups, advanced diagnostics, and personalised care plans, it’s one of the most effective ways to ensure your pet lives a longer, healthier life.