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Complete Blood Count (CBC) Tests
A CBC evaluates your pet’s blood to help detect a variety of health conditions. Here’s what the key components mean:
Red Blood Cells (RBC)
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Measures the size, shape, and number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
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Hemoglobin (HB)
Hematocrit (HCT)
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Used to detect anemia (low red blood cell levels).
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Platelets (PLT)
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Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Abnormal platelet counts can lead to excessive bleeding or clotting problems.
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MCV
MCH
MCHC
Red Blood Cell Morphology
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- Hemoglobin (HB) & Hematocrit (HCT): Used to detect anemia (low red blood cell levels).
- MCV, MCH, MCHC & RBC Morphology: Help determine the type of anemia if present.
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WBC Differential
Neutrophils (Segs) Bands
Lymphocytes (Lymphs)
Monocytes (Mono)
Eosinophils (Eos)
Basophils (Baso)
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White blood cells fight infection and respond to inflammation. The differential measures the numbers and types of white blood cells:
- Neutrophils (Segs) & Bands – fight bacterial infections
- Lymphocytes (Lymphs) – involved in immune responses
- Monocytes (Mono) – help remove dead or damaged cells
- Eosinophils (Eos) – respond to allergies and parasites
- Basophils (Baso) – involved in inflammatory responses
Abnormal WBC counts can indicate:
- Infection or inflammation (increased WBCs)
- Bone marrow disease or severe infection (decreased WBCs)
- Leukemia (cancer of the blood system, abnormal appearance or high numbers of WBCs)
Regular blood testing helps catch early signs of illness, monitor ongoing conditions, and ensure your pet stays healthy.
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