Overview
Our in-house laboratory equipment allows us to run essential blood and urine tests on-site, providing rapid results that guide immediate treatment decisions. This means less waiting, faster answers, and quicker relief for your pet.
At TKVets, we can perform a wide range of diagnostic tests during your visit, from pre-anaesthetic health checks to investigating illness, monitoring chronic conditions, and senior pet wellness screening.
Tests We Perform In-House
Blood Tests
- Biochemistry: Assesses kidney and liver function, blood sugar, electrolytes, and protein levels
- Hematology: Evaluates red and white blood cells, detecting anemia, infection, and clotting disorders
- Pre-Anesthetic Screening: Ensures your pet is healthy enough for surgery
- Senior Wellness Panels: Early detection of age-related conditions
- Thyroid Testing: Diagnoses hyperthyroidism in cats and hypothyroidism in dogs
Urine Tests
- Urinalysis for bladder infections and kidney disease
- Detection of diabetes and other metabolic disorders
- Identification of crystals and stones
- Protein levels indicating kidney problems
Specialised Tests
- Fecal examination for parasites
- Cytology (microscopic examination of cells)
- Some hormone testing
What to Expect
- Quick Sample Collection: Blood samples take just seconds to collect
- Minimal Stress: We use gentle handling and the least stressful technique
- Rapid Results: Most in-house tests completed within 15-30 minutes
- Immediate Discussion: We review results with you and explain what they mean
- Same-Day Treatment: We can start appropriate treatment without delay
- External Laboratory: Complex tests sent to specialist labs (results within 24-48 hours)
When Lab Tests Are Recommended
- Before Surgery: Pre-anaesthetic screening to ensure safe anaesthesia
- Investigating Illness: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, increased thirst, or weight loss
- Senior Pet Checks: Annual wellness screening for pets over 7 years old
- Monitoring Conditions: Regular checks for pets on long-term medication or with chronic diseases
- Emergency Situations: Rapid diagnosis in critical cases
- Health Screening: Baseline values for healthy young pets
Preparation for Lab Tests
Blood Tests
- Fasting for 8-12 hours may be recommended for some tests
- Water is usually allowed
- We'll advise if any medications should be withheld
Urine Tests
- Try not to let your pet urinate immediately before the appointment
- You can bring a fresh sample if your pet has difficulty at the clinic
- Samples should be less than 2 hours old
Frequently Asked Questions
When might my pet need lab tests?
Lab tests may be recommended for health screening before anaesthesia, investigating symptoms like vomiting or lethargy, diagnosing conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, monitoring ongoing conditions, or as part of senior pet wellness checks.
How quickly will I get results?
Many tests are performed in-house with results available within 15-30 minutes. This allows us to discuss findings and start appropriate treatment during the same appointment. More specialized tests sent to external laboratories typically return within 24-48 hours.
Does taking blood hurt my pet?
Taking a blood sample is very quick and causes only brief discomfort, similar to human blood tests. Most pets tolerate it very well, and we always use the gentlest technique possible. We can offer treats and reassurance to keep your pet calm.
Why are in-house tests better than sending samples away?
In-house testing provides immediate results, allowing us to diagnose and treat your pet without delay. This is especially important for sick pets, pre-surgical screening, and emergency situations. It also reduces the stress of repeat visits.
Should senior pets have regular lab tests?
Yes, we recommend annual blood and urine screening for pets over 7 years old. Early detection of conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid problems allows us to start treatment sooner, improving quality of life and longevity.