Veterinary diagnostic tests are an exceptional tool used by our Rock Hill veterinarians to help us pinpoint the cause, extent, or seriousness of your pet's illness or injury. Depending on the condition, the type of pet diagnostic test used will vary. Below are a few of the tests that your vet may recommend to help diagnose or treat your dog or cat.
Radiography (X-rays)
X-rays are an important diagnostic tool in animal laboratory testing. They allow veterinarians to identify issues such as broken bones, bladder stones, swallowed foreign objects, and more. They can also help detect tumors, pregnancy, and enlarged organs, which can lead to heart disease or cancer diagnosis.
Because X-rays do not provide a detailed view of a pet's organs, tissues, or ligaments, other diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI and ultrasound, are more useful.
X-rays are non-invasive, painless, and considered very safe for dogs and cats. They only use very low doses of radiation, and pregnant pets are not affected. Sedation is sometimes required to obtain a clear image of the body. But sedation may not be required if the dog or cat is calm, not in too much pain, and able to lie in a comfortable position.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are a type of imaging technology used to diagnose or evaluate problems with a pet's internal organs, as well as to check on their pregnancy. They are non-invasive and can be used to detect and treat medical conditions like cysts and tumors.
Different preparations are required for ultrasounds on different parts of your pet's body. Consult your veterinarian to learn how to prepare your pet for an ultrasound. For abdominal ultrasounds, you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for 8 to 12 hours. We can examine the urinary bladder more thoroughly when it is full of urine. This is why, if, at all possible, your cat or dog should refrain from urinating for 3 to 6 hours prior to the ultrasound.
The area to be examined will most likely be shaved to produce clear images. While the majority of pets will remain still and cooperative during the ultrasound, some will require sedation.
Tonometry
Tonometry for pets is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the pressure inside the eye, specifically in cases of glaucoma or other eye conditions. This test involves using a device to gently touch the surface of the eye and obtain pressure readings, helping veterinarians assess and monitor ocular health in animals.
Cytology
Cytology for pets involves the microscopic examination of cells collected from various tissues or fluids in order to diagnose infections, inflammation, or cancer. It is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can provide valuable information about the health of an animal without the need for more invasive procedures.
Bloodwork
Before any visible symptoms appear, blood tests can detect the earliest signs of illness. They can help with disease or illness detection, identification, diagnosis, and treatment. Blood tests are also required during routine exams for healthy pets to obtain normal baseline values. Diagnostic blood tests can help your veterinarian determine the cause of your dog's symptoms.
Two common tests used to diagnose anemia, inflammation, infection, immune system response, and blood clotting ability are a complete blood count (CBC) and a complete blood chemistry panel, which includes electrolytes and urinalysis. The chemistry panel and electrolytes inform your veterinarian about the health and function of your pet's liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Blood tests can also detect and identify complex issues within a dog's internal systems, such as hormonal and chemical responses.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is a simple diagnostic test for determining the physical and chemical properties of urine. It is primarily used to assess the health of the kidneys and urinary system, but it can also reveal issues with other organ systems. All pets over the age of eight should have a urinalysis once a year. A urinalysis may be recommended if your pet has increased water intake, an increased frequency of urination, or visible blood in the urine.
Fecal Exams
Fecal exams are performed in a veterinarian's office and are used to diagnose and treat a variety of infections that may be threatening your pet's health. Because intestinal parasites can be transmitted to humans, having your pet examined annually protects your family.
Fecal exams allow veterinarians to detect intestinal parasites like hookworms and roundworms. These can cause discomfort and irritability in pets and lead to more serious conditions. Because parasites can go undetected and infect other pets or people in the home, examining feces is the best way to detect them.
ECG
ECG is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of the heart in pets. It helps veterinarians detect abnormalities in heart rhythm and identify potential cardiac issues that may require further evaluation or treatment.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.