Normal blood counts in cats. What does a biochemical blood test show in cats? Before a scheduled blood draw, you should exclude
A cat's blood test is the most important element of the examination, necessary for making a diagnosis of various diseases, as well as for the early detection of diseases in clinically healthy animals. The range of blood tests for cats is quite wide and increases from year to year, opening up new horizons of veterinary diagnostics. The tests required in each specific case are prescribed by a veterinarian, but the first and most important tests are almost always general clinical and biochemical blood tests.
Why is a cat’s blood biochemical test necessary? What are the differences between general clinical and biochemical tests? Is it necessary to take tests during treatment? This is not a complete list of questions regarding cat blood tests that owners often ask when visiting a veterinarian. We will try to highlight some of them in this article.
Clinical blood test for cats
A clinical blood test for cats is one of the primary tests ordered by a veterinarian. Correct interpretation of the analysis results not only ensures a diagnosis, but also allows you to establish a prognosis, identify hidden pathological processes and “suspect” the disease in time.
Blood collection for this study is carried out observing the rules of asepsis and antiseptics. A sample of venous blood is taken into a specially prepared tube containing a certain amount of anticoagulant. Next, the sample is tightly closed, signed and immediately sent for testing, or placed in the refrigerator for no more than a day.
Main indicators of a general blood test for cats
A general blood test for cats allows you to evaluate a number of important indicators:
- Hematocrit is the ratio of the total volume of red blood cells to the volume of blood plasma, expressed as a percentage.
- Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that ensures tissue respiration by transporting oxygen to the cells and carbon dioxide to the lungs.
- Red blood cells are nuclear-free blood cells that contain the protein hemoglobin.
- Color indicator is the average color intensity of red blood cells, characterizing the volume of hemoglobin in one blood cell.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is an indicator of an imbalance of blood proteins resulting from illness. The most intense increases in ESR occur with malignant neoplasms.
- Leukocytes are “white” (unstained) blood cells that carry out the functions of the immune system. A strong increase in the number of leukocytes occurs with various types of leukemia and acute purulent inflammation of organs. A drop in the amount of “white blood” is observed with aplastic anemia and viral panleukopenia in cats.
- Neutrophils (young, band, segmented), eosinophils, basophils, monocytes and lymphocytes are all specific forms of leukocytes. All of them perform the functions of immunity - protecting the body from infection, foreign objects and antigens.
- Platelets (blood platelets) are blood elements that perform the function of maintaining blood constancy and stopping bleeding.
Decoding the blood test for cats (general).
Only a veterinarian can correctly decipher a clinical blood test of cats, since sometimes even seemingly insignificant changes in indicators characterize the pathological conditions of the cat’s body.
The main indicators of the clinical blood test of cats, their norms and common reasons for going beyond acceptable limits are presented in Table 1.
Indicator, designation | Norm, unit of measurement | Promotion | Demotion |
Hematocrit | Increased number of red blood cells (erythrocytosis) Dehydration (vomiting, diarrhea) Reduced plasma volume | Increasing plasma volume Chronic inflammation Starvation Oncological diseases Intravenous infusions |
|
Hemoglobin | Erythrocytosis Dehydration of any kind (dehydration) | Blood loss (overt or hidden) Intoxication Damage to the hematopoietic organs Intravenous infusions |
|
Red blood cells RGB | Red blood cells RGB 5.3-10*10 12 /l | Erythrocytosis Hypoxia (lack of oxygen) Kidney and liver diseases Dehydration | Blood loss Late pregnancy Chronic inflammation |
Color index | hyperchromic anemia | hypochromic anemia |
|
Inflammatory processes Oncology Intoxication, poisoning Kidney and liver diseases Pregnancy Shock, surgery | |||
Leukocytes | 5.5-18.0*10 9 /l | Bacterial infections Oncological diseases Inflammation | Viral infections Bone marrow diseases Radioactive radiation |
Band neutrophils | Bacterial infections Acute, purulent inflammations Tumors with tissue destruction Poisoning | Viral infections Bacterial chronic infections Introduction of fungi and protozoa into the body Bone marrow diseases Some forms of leukemia Anaphylactic shock |
|
Segmented neutrophils | |||
Eosinophils | Allergy Intolerance to drugs, food | ||
Basophils | Rarely found | Allergy Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract | |
Monocytes | Viral, fungal infections Protozoan diseases Inflammation Surgical interventions Tuberculosis, enteritis | Aplastic anemia Corticosteroid drugs |
|
Lymphocytes | Viral infections Toxoplasmosis | Malignant tumors Immunodeficiencies Kidney and liver diseases Pancytopenia |
|
Platelets | Chronic inflammation Bleeding After operation Use of corticosteroids | Hereditary decline Infections Bone marrow lesions |
Table 1
Interpretation of blood test for cats (general clinical).
Biochemical analysis of cat blood.
Biochemical blood analysis of cats is a diagnostic method that characterizes the functional characteristics of organs and organ systems, that is, their “working” abilities. The functioning of all cells, tissues and organs is possible due to the presence of certain enzymes (substances that accelerate metabolic reactions) and substrates (substances that the enzyme “modifies”). It is on the quantity and ratio of enzymes and substrates that the decoding of the biochemical blood test of cats is based. But first things first.
A blood sample for biochemical analysis should be taken on an empty stomach, before treatment procedures. A sample of venous blood (preferably drawn by gravity, without a syringe, directly into a test tube) is labeled and sent for testing.
Blood sampling already during treatment is necessary to adjust treatment measures and establish the prognosis of the disease.
The main elements for assessing organ functions, as already mentioned, are enzymes and substrates.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found inside the liver cells (the largest amount), the muscles of the cat's body, as well as the myocardium. Participates in amino acid metabolism. Released when the cells that contain it are damaged.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an intracellular enzyme that serves to transfer amino groups within cells. The largest amounts are found in the heart, skeletal muscles, liver, and brain. When the cell wall is damaged, it is released and enters the bloodstream.
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK, CK) is an important diagnostic test for diseases of the brain, heart, and muscles of the body. The cells of the listed organs contain quite large quantities.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) - found in hepatocytes (liver cells), bone tissue, placenta, and intestines. Released when these organs are damaged. An increase in alkaline phosphatase in the blood of growing animals (kittens) is normal.
Alpha amylase is a digestive enzyme. Produced by the pancreas, partially contained in the tissues of the intestines, ovaries, and muscles.
Main substrates important for diagnosis.
Total protein is determined by the general condition of the body, nutrition, liver and kidney function. All whey protein consists of albumin (the main part) and globulins. Contained in absolutely all cells of the body.
Glucose is an indicator of carbohydrate metabolism, a “battery” for the body. For its absorption, insulin is needed - a protein substance, a pancreatic hormone. If there is insufficiency or failure of insulin, the amount of glucose in the blood does not decrease, but it is not absorbed by the body’s cells, they “starve”.
Total bilirubin - consists of two fractions: indirect and direct. The first is a breakdown product of red blood cells, which is bound by liver cells and converted into a direct one. Then it is excreted from the body with bile (through the intestines).
Urea is a product of protein metabolism and is excreted by the kidneys.
Creatinine is another end product of protein metabolism. Formed in the liver, excreted by the kidneys.
Also important indicators of the biochemical analysis of the blood of cats are the amount of cholesterol, triglycerides, and electrolytes (potassium, sodium, chlorides).
Correct interpretation of a biochemical blood test ensures an accurate diagnosis.
The main indicators, their norms and possible reasons for deviations from the norms are described in Table 2.
Index | Norm, unit of measurement | Promotion | Demotion |
Liver cell necrosis Hepatitis Liver tumors Destruction of muscle tissue Poisoning | |||
Heart lesions Liver diseases Skeletal muscle injuries | Has no diagnostic value |
||
Heart attack Brain stroke Poisoning | Has no diagnostic value |
||
Alkaline phosphatase | (for adult cats) | Healing of fractures Bone tumors Bile duct blockage Pregnancy Gastrointestinal diseases | Vitamin C deficiency Hypothyroidism |
Alpha amylase | Pancreatic lesions Volvulus Kidney failure | pancreatic insufficiency |
|
Total protein | Dehydration Inflammation | Starvation Gastrointestinal diseases Kidney failure |
|
3.3-6.3 mmol/l | Diabetes Increased loads Pancreatic diseases Cushing's syndrome Stress, shock | Malnutrition Endocrine insufficiency Poisoning |
|
Total bilirubin | 3.0-12 mmol/l | Liver diseases Bile duct blockage Destruction of blood cells | Bone marrow diseases |
Urea | 5.4-12.0 mmol/l | Kidney failure High protein diet Shock, stress Intoxication, vomiting, diarrhea | Liver diseases |
Creatinine | 55-180 µmol/l | Kidney failure High protein diet (if increased in urine) Dehydration (vomiting, diarrhea) | Starvation Low protein diet |
Cholesterol | 2-6 mmol/l | Liver diseases Atherosclerosis Hypothyroidism | Starvation Neoplasms |
Table 2.
Decoding the biochemical analysis of a cat's blood.
Thus, biochemical and clinical blood tests of cats are necessary components of veterinary diagnostics. And only their correct decoding in combination with additional studies (ultrasound, x-ray, tomography, other blood tests) will ensure an accurate diagnosis and, accordingly, successful and high-quality treatment!
A general blood test in cats is one of the mandatory studies to determine the condition of the animal’s body and the timely detection of diseases of various types. Tests are carried out in laboratories at specialized veterinary clinics; your pet’s attending physician is primarily responsible for decoding. At the same time, you can play it safe and try to understand on your own what the numbers in the summary say. This information will help you have a more productive conversation with your veterinarian and, if necessary, guide him to make the correct diagnosis.
Interpretation of clinical blood test indicators
Let’s take a closer look at what each substance is responsible for and what to look for when interpreting tests in cats.
Hematocrit (HCT). Norm - 24-26%
An increased number indicates a likely increase in the level of red blood cells (erythrocytosis), dehydration, the development of diabetes in the animal, and a decrease in plasma volume in the blood.
A decrease in hematocrit indicates anemia, chronic inflammation of one of the organs, cat starvation, the presence of cancer or internal infusion.
Hemoglobin (HGB). Norm - 80-150 g/l
An elevated hemoglobin level may indicate erythrocytosis or dehydration.
A reading below 80 g/l is a sign of one of several disorders, such as anemia, obvious or hidden blood loss, poisoning, or damage to the hematopoietic organs.
White blood cells (WBC). Norm - 5.5-18.0*109/l
Exceeding the norm: leukemia, development of bacterial infections or inflammatory processes, oncology.
Decreased normal: virus, bone marrow damage, damage to the body due to radioactive radiation.
Red blood cells (RGB). Norm - 5.3-10*10 12 /l
An increased level of red blood cells means the development of erythrocytosis in the body, lack of oxygen, and dehydration of the body. In some cases, it indicates kidney and liver diseases.
A low red blood cell count indicates blood loss (hidden or obvious), anemia, and the presence of chronic inflammation in the body. May appear in the last stages of pregnancy.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Norm - 0-13 mm/h
An increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate clearly indicates a heart attack, the development of cancer, liver and kidney diseases, animal poisoning, and a state of shock. In some cases, it can occur during pregnancy.
There are no reduced indicators in this case.
Neutrophils. The norm for rods is 0-3% of WBC, for segmented ones - 35-75% of WBC
With increased levels, we can talk about the development of acute inflammation (including purulent), leukemia, tissue breakdown due to tumors or poisoning.
If the level of neutrophils is low, then most likely we are dealing with fungal diseases, damage to bone marrow tissue, or anaphylactic shock in the animal.
Important: the first step to diagnosing diseases is testing.
Eosinophils. Normal - 0-4% of WBC
Take a closer look at your pet: does he have a food allergy or intolerance to medications? This is what the increased level of eosinophils indicates. Considering that the minimum threshold for this substance is 0% of WBC, there is no reduced amount.
Monocytes. Normal - 1-4% of WBC
An increase in monocytes in the blood often occurs against the background of the development of fungus in the body (including a viral nature), as well as with protozoal diseases, tuberculosis, and enteritis.
An indicator below normal occurs against the background of aplastic anemia or when taking corticosteroid drugs.
Lymphocytes. Normal - 20-55% of WBC
Increased: leukemia, toxoplasmosis, viral infection.
Decreased: presence of a malignant tumor, immunodeficiency of the body, pancytopenia, kidney and/or liver damage.
Platelets (PLT). Norm - 300-630*10 9 /l
Exceeding the norm often indicates bleeding, a tumor (benign or malignant), and the presence of chronic inflammation. Often the platelet level increases after surgery or against the background of corticosteroids.
A low platelet count indicates infection or bone marrow disease. However, in veterinary practice there are cases when a low number of platelets in the blood is normal.
Biochemical blood test: interpretation
Using a biochemical blood test, you can determine the quality of functioning of internal organs. The objects of research are enzymes and substrates.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Norm - 19-79 units.
An increased content may indicate the destruction of liver cells, hepatitis, liver tumors, burns and poisoning, as well as a deterioration in the elasticity of muscle tissue in the animal’s body.
A decrease in ALT levels, as a rule, has no diagnostic value. That is, if you see an indicator below 19 in the analysis, do not rush to panic.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The norm is 9-30 units.
Often the norm is exceeded in case of liver disease, damage to the heart muscle or stroke. However, this can be seen not only from the analysis, but also from a visual inspection. If everything is normal with the cat, then most likely it has damaged its muscles. A reduced reading usually does not play a role in diagnosing the disease.
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK). Norm - 150-798 units.
It increases due to a heart attack or stroke, as well as against the background of muscle injuries, poisoning or coma. A reduced indicator does not affect the diagnostic breakdown.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The norm for adults is 39-55 units.
An increased level of phosphatase in the normal condition of the animal may indicate pregnancy or healing of previously occurring fractures. In the presence of related symptoms, it often signals tumors in bone tissue, blockage of the bile ducts, or diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
A reduced indicator indicates the development of anemia, hypothyroidism, and acute lack of vitamin C.
Alpha amylase. Norm - 580-1600 units.
Alpha-amylase tends to increase due to diabetes, as well as with lesions of the pancreas, renal failure or intestinal volvulus. If the indicator is below normal, then the cat is likely developing pancreatic insufficiency, which also does not bode well.
Glucose. Normal - 3.3-6.3 mmol/l
Almost always, an increase in glucose levels indicates diabetes in a cat or diseases of the pancreas. Glucose often increases due to stress or shock. In rare cases, it is one of the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome.
A decrease in glucose indicates malnutrition, poisoning or tumors.
Total bilirubin. Normal - 3.0-12 mmol/l
In 99% of cases, bilirubin increases due to liver disease (most often hepatitis) and blockage of the bile ducts. The destruction of blood cells is also possible, which is also indicated by an increase in bilirubin.
If the level of this substance in the blood is reduced, then your pet may have anemia or bone marrow disease.
Urea. Normal - 5.4-12.0 mmol/l
Did you see that the urea content in the tests exceeded the norm? Be prepared for the vet to indicate kidney failure or intoxication in the body. However, most often this indicator increases against the background of a diet rich in proteins, as well as the stressful state of the animal. Low urea content, as a rule, indicates a lack of protein in food.
Cholesterol. 2-6 mmol/l
As in humans, an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood of an animal occurs against the background of developing atherosclerosis. In some cases, an increased rate is a consequence of liver disease or hypothyroidism. On the contrary, low cholesterol levels indicate starvation or neoplasms of various natures.
To make an accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian usually looks at the results together. And if the same disease is traced by several indicators at once, it is diagnosed after additional studies (X-ray, ultrasound, palpation, etc.).
A general blood test in cats is one of the mandatory studies to determine the condition of the animal’s body and the timely detection of diseases of various types. Tests are carried out in specialized laboratories; your pet’s attending physician is primarily responsible for decoding. At the same time, you can play it safe and try to understand on your own what the numbers in the summary say. This information will help you have a more productive conversation with your veterinarian and, if necessary, guide him to make the correct diagnosis.
Interpretation of clinical blood test indicators
Let’s take a closer look at what each substance is responsible for and what to look for when interpreting tests in cats.
Hematocrit (HCT). Norm - 24-26%
An increased number indicates a likely increase in the level of red blood cells (erythrocytosis), dehydration, the development of diabetes in the animal, and a decrease in plasma volume in the blood.
A decrease in hematocrit indicates anemia, chronic inflammation of one of the organs, cat starvation, or the presence of internal infusion.
Hemoglobin (HGB). Norm - 80-150 g/l
An increased level of hemoglobin can signal erythrocytosis or.
A reading below 80 g/l is a sign of one of several disorders, such as anemia, obvious or hidden blood loss, poisoning, or damage to the hematopoietic organs.
White blood cells (WBC). Norm - 5.5-18.0*109/l
Exceeding the norm: leukemia, development of bacterial infections or inflammatory processes, oncology.
Decreased normal: virus, bone marrow damage, damage to the body due to radioactive radiation.
Red blood cells (RGB). Norm - 5.3-10*10 12 /l
An increased level of red blood cells means the development of erythrocytosis in the body, lack of oxygen, and dehydration of the body. In some cases, it also indicates the liver.
A low red blood cell count indicates blood loss (hidden or obvious), anemia, and the presence of chronic inflammation in the body. May appear in the last stages of pregnancy.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Norm - 0-13 mm/h
An increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate clearly indicates a heart attack, the development of cancer, liver and kidney diseases, animal poisoning, and a state of shock. In some cases, it can occur during pregnancy.
There are no reduced indicators in this case.
Neutrophils. The norm for rods is 0-3% of WBC, for segmented ones - 35-75% of WBC
With increased levels, we can talk about the development of acute inflammation (including purulent), leukemia, tissue breakdown due to or poisoning.
If the level of neutrophils is low, then most likely we are dealing with fungal diseases, damage to bone marrow tissue, or anaphylactic shock in the animal.
Important: the first step to diagnosing diseases is testing.
Eosinophils. Normal - 0-4% of WBC
Take a closer look at your pet: does he have a food allergy or intolerance to medications? This is what the increased level of eosinophils indicates. Considering that the minimum threshold for this substance is 0% of WBC, there is no reduced amount.
Monocytes. Normal - 1-4% of WBC
An increase in monocytes in the blood often occurs against the background of the development of fungus in the body (including a viral nature), as well as with protozoal diseases, tuberculosis, and enteritis.
An indicator below normal occurs against the background of aplastic anemia or when taking corticosteroid drugs.
Lymphocytes. Normal - 20-55% of WBC
Increased: leukemia, toxoplasmosis, viral infection.
Decreased: presence of a malignant tumor, immunodeficiency of the body, pancytopenia, kidney and/or liver damage.
Platelets (PLT). Norm - 300-630*10 9 /l
Exceeding the norm often indicates bleeding, a tumor (benign or malignant), and the presence of chronic inflammation. Often the platelet level increases after or against the background of corticosteroids.
A low platelet count indicates infection or bone marrow disease. However, in veterinary practice there are cases when a low number of platelets in the blood is normal.
Biochemical blood test: interpretation
Using a biochemical blood test, you can determine the quality of functioning of internal organs. The objects of research are enzymes and substrates.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Norm - 19-79 units.
An increased content may indicate the destruction of liver cells, hepatitis, liver tumors, burns and poisoning, as well as a deterioration in the elasticity of muscle tissue in the animal’s body.
A decrease in ALT levels, as a rule, has no diagnostic value. That is, if you see an indicator below 19 in the analysis, do not rush to panic.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The norm is 9-30 units.
Often the norm is exceeded in case of liver disease, damage to the heart muscle or stroke. However, this can be seen not only from the analysis, but also from a visual inspection. If everything is normal with the cat, then most likely it has damaged its muscles. A reduced reading usually does not play a role in diagnosing the disease.
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK). Norm - 150-798 units.
It increases due to a heart attack or stroke, as well as against the background of muscle injuries, poisoning or coma. A reduced indicator does not affect the diagnostic breakdown.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The norm for adults is 39-55 units.
An increased level of phosphatase in the normal condition of the animal may indicate pregnancy or healing. In the presence of related symptoms, it often signals tumors in bone tissue, blockage of the bile ducts, or diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
A reduced indicator indicates the development of anemia, hypothyroidism, and acute lack of vitamin C.
Alpha amylase. Norm - 580-1600 units.
Alpha-amylase tends to increase due to diabetes, as well as with lesions of the pancreas, renal failure or intestinal volvulus. If the indicator is below normal, then the cat is likely developing pancreatic insufficiency, which also does not bode well.
Glucose. Normal - 3.3-6.3 mmol/l
Almost always, an increase in glucose levels indicates a cat with pancreatic diseases. Glucose often increases due to stress or shock. In rare cases, it is one of the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome.
A decrease in glucose indicates malnutrition, poisoning or tumors.
Total bilirubin. Normal - 3.0-12 mmol/l
In 99% of cases, bilirubin increases due to liver disease (most often hepatitis) and blockage of the bile ducts. The destruction of blood cells is also possible, which is also indicated by an increase in bilirubin.
If the level of this substance in the blood is reduced, then your pet may have anemia or bone marrow disease.
Urea. Normal - 5.4-12.0 mmol/l
Did you see that the urea content in the tests exceeded the norm? Be prepared for the fact that the veterinarian will indicate intoxication in the body. However, most often this indicator increases against the background of a diet rich in proteins, as well as the stressful state of the animal. Low urea content, as a rule, indicates a lack of protein in food.
Cholesterol. 2-6 mmol/l
As in humans, an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood of an animal occurs against the background of developing atherosclerosis. In some cases, an increased rate is a consequence of liver disease or hypothyroidism. On the contrary, low cholesterol levels indicate starvation or neoplasms of various natures.
To make an accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian usually looks at the results together. And if the same disease is traced by several indicators at once, it is diagnosed after additional studies (X-ray, ultrasound, palpation, etc.).
Material under study: venous, capillary blood
Take: When taking blood, you must follow the rules of asepsis and antisepsis in accordance with the instructions. If possible, blood is taken on an empty stomach into a clean (preferably disposable) test tube with an anticoagulant (K 3 EDTA, K 2 EDTA, Na 2 EDTA, less commonly sodium citrate, sodium oxalate) (test tube with a green or lilac cap). Heparin should not be used! It is necessary to correctly calculate the amount of anticoagulant. After drawing blood, the tube should be mixed smoothly. When drawing blood into a syringe, transfer it into the test tube immediately and slowly, preventing foaming. DON'T SHAKE!!
Storage: Blood is stored for no more than 6-8 hours at room temperature, 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Delivery: Blood tubes must be labeled and tightly closed. During transportation, the material should be protected from the harmful effects of the environment and weather conditions. DON'T SHAKE!!!
:
Exceeding the concentration of the anticoagulant causes wrinkling and hemolysis of red blood cells, as well as a decrease in ESR;
Heparin affects the color and staining of blood cells and the count of leukocytes;
High concentrations of EDTA increase platelet counts;
Vigorous shaking of the blood leads to hemolysis;
A decrease in hemoglobin and red blood cells can occur due to the action of drugs that can cause the development of aplastic anemia (antitumor, anticonvulsants, heavy metals, antibiotics, analgesics).
Biseptol, vitamin A, corticotropin, cortisol - increase ESR.
Hemogram
| Hematocrit (Ht, HCT)ratio of erythrocyte volumes to plasma (volume fraction of erythrocytes in the blood | 0.3-0.45 l/l 30-45% | Promotion
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Decline
|
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| Red blood cells (RBC)Nuclear-free blood cells containing hemoglobin. Make up the bulk of the formed elements of blood | 5-10x10 6 /l | Promotion
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Decline
|
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| 0,65-0,90 | Color index– characterizes the average hemoglobin content in one red blood cell. Reflects the average color intensity of erythrocytes. Used to divide anemia into hypochromic, normochromic and hyperchromic. | |
| Mean erythrocyte volume (MCV)indicator used to characterize the type of anemia | 43–53 µm 3 /l | Promotion
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Norm
|
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Decline
|
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| Red blood cell anicytosis rate (RDW)a condition in which red blood cells of various sizes are simultaneously detected (normocytes, microcytes, macrocytes) | 14-18% | Promotion
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Decline
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| Reticulocytesimmature red blood cells containing RNA residues in ribosomes. They circulate in the blood for 2 days, after which, as RNA decreases, they turn into mature red blood cells | 0.5-1.5% of RBC | Promotion
|
Decline
|
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| Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (Reaction) (ESR, ROE, ESR)nonspecific indicator of dysproteinemia accompanying the disease process | 0-12 mm/hour | Promotion (accelerated)
|
| Decline- Hemolytic anemia. | ||
| Platelets | 300-700x10 9 /l | Promotion- Infections, inflammations, neoplasia. |
| Decline- Uremia, toxemia, infections, hypoadrenocorticism, immune disorders, bleeding. | ||
| Hemoglobin (Hb, HGB)blood pigment (complex protein) contained in red blood cells, the main function of which is the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide, regulation of acid-base status | 8-15 g/dl | Promotion
|
Decline
|
||
| Mean erythrocyte hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)indicator that determines the saturation of red blood cells with hemoglobin | 31-36% | Promotion
|
Decline
|
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| Average hemoglobin content in erythrocytes (MCH)– rarely used to characterize anemia | 14-19 pg | Promotion
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Decline
|
Hemogram of cats of different ages and sexes (R.W. Kirk)
| Index | Floor | up to 12 months | 1-7 years | 7 years and older | |||
| oscillation | Wed meaning | oscillation | Wed meaning | oscillation | Wed meaning | ||
| red blood cells (million/µl) | male female | 5,43-10,22 4,46-11,34 | 6,96 6,90 | 4,48-10,27 4,45-9,42 | 7,34 6,17 | 5,26-8,89 4,10-7,38 | 6,79 5,84 |
| hemoglobin (g/dl) | male female | 6,0-12,9 6,0-15,0 | 9,9 9,9 | 8,9-17,0 7,9-15,5 | 12,9 10,3 | 9,0-14,5 7,5-13,7 | 11,8 10,3 |
| leukocytes (thousand µl) | male female | 7,8-25,0 11,0-26,9 | 15,8 17,7 | 9,1-28,2 13,7-23,7 | 15,1 19,9 | 6,4-30,4 5,2-30,1 | 17,6 14,8 |
| mature neutrophils (%) | male female | 16-75 51-83 | 60 69 | 37-92 42-93 | 65 69 | 33-75 25-89 | 61 71 |
| lymphocytes (%) | male female | 10-81 8-37 | 30 23 | 7-48 12-58 | 23 30 | 16-54 9-63 | 30 22 |
| monocytes (%) | male female | 1-5 0-7 | 2 2 | 71-5 0-5 | 2 2 | 0-2 0-4 | 1 1 |
| eosinophils (%) | male female | 2-21 0-15 | 8 6 | 1-22 0-13 | 7 5 | 1-15 0-15 | 8 6 |
| platelets (x 10 9 /l) | 300-700 | 500 | |||||
LEUKOCYTE FORMULA
Leukocyte formula- percentage of different forms of leukocytes in the blood (in a stained smear). Changes in the leukocyte formula may be typical for a particular disease.
| White blood cells (WBC)blood cells, the main function of which is to protect the body from foreign agents | 5.5-18.5 *10 3 /l | Increased (leukocytosis)
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Decrease (leukopenia)
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Neutrophilsgranulocytic leukocytes, the main function of which is to protect the body from infections. In the blood there are band neutrophils - younger cells, and segmented neutrophils - mature cells
| BIOCHEMICAL BLOOD STUDY
Material under study: serum, less often plasma. Take: On an empty stomach, always before diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. The blood is taken into a dry, clean tube (preferably disposable) (tube with a red cap). Use a needle with a large lumen (without a syringe, except for difficult veins). The blood should flow down the wall of the tube. Mix smoothly and close tightly. DON'T SHAKE! DO NOT FOAM! Compression of the vessel during blood collection should be minimal. Storage: Serum or plasma should be separated as quickly as possible. Depending on the parameters required for research, the material is stored from 30 minutes (at room temperature) to several weeks in frozen form (the sample can be thawed only once). Delivery: Test tubes must be labeled. Blood should be delivered as quickly as possible in a cooler bag. DON'T SHAKE! IT IS FORBIDDEN deliver blood in a syringe. Factors influencing results: With prolonged compression of the vessel, the concentrations of proteins, lipids, bilirubin, calcium, potassium, enzyme activity, and Plasma cannot be used to determine potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, etc., It should be taken into account that the concentration of some indicators in serum and plasma is different Concentration in serum more than in plasma: albumin, alkaline phosphatase, glucose, uric acid, sodium, OB, TG, amylase Serum concentration equal to plasma: ALT, bilirubin, calcium, CPK, urea Serum concentration less than in plasma: AST, potassium, LDH, phosphorus Hemolyzed serum and plasma are not suitable for the determination of LDH, Iron, AST, ALT, potassium, magnesium, creatinine, bilirubin, etc. At room temperature after 10 minutes there is a tendency for glucose concentration to decrease, High bilirubin concentrations, lipemia and sample turbidity increase cholesterol values, Bilirubin of all fractions is reduced by 30-50% if serum or plasma is exposed to direct daylight for 1-2 hours, Physical activity, fasting, obesity, food intake, trauma, surgery, intramuscular injections cause an increase in a number of enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH, CPK), It should be taken into account that in young animals the activity of LDH, alkaline phosphatase, and amylase is higher than in adults. Blood chemistry
HORMONE STUDY
Material under study: blood serum (at least 0.5 ml for the study of one hormone), do not use PLASMA! Take: On an empty stomach, take blood into a clean, dry test tube (test tube with a red cap). Now is the time to separate the whey, to not allow hemolysis! When repeating tests, take blood only under the same conditions as before. Storage, delivery: whey immediately to freeze! Re-freezing is excluded. Deliver on the day the material is collected. Factors influencing results: Concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH) fluctuate throughout the day (max – early morning, min – afternoon), Estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, thyrotropin (TSH) – stable in serum at room temperature for 1 day, frozen for 3 days, To study sex hormones, you should avoid taking estrogens for 3 days before donating blood. To study T4 (thyroxine), exclude drugs with iodine for a month, thyroid drugs for 2-3 days, Before performing the analysis, it is necessary to exclude physical activity and stress, Reduce hormone levels: anabolic steroids, progesterone, glucocorticoids, dexamethasone, ampicillin, etc., Increase the level of hormones: ketoconazole, furosemide, acetylsalicylic acid. STUDY OF THE HEMOSTASIS SYSTEMMaterial under study: venous blood (serum, plasma), capillary blood. Anticoagulant - sodium citrate 3.8% in a ratio of 1/9 (test tube with blue cap). Take: blood is taken on an empty stomach using a wide bore needle without a syringe. The time for squeezing the vein with a tourniquet should be minimal. The first 2-3 drops merge, because... they may contain tissue thromboplastin. The blood is taken by gravity, slowly mixed in a test tube, DO NOT SHAKE! Storage, delivery: the study is carried out immediately. Before centrifugation, the tubes are placed in an ice bath. Factors influencing results: The exact ratio of blood to anticoagulant (9:1) is critical. If the volume of anticoagulant does not correspond to a high hematocrit value, the prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) increase, Heparin, carbenicillin and tissue fluid entering the sample (during venipuncture) - increase clotting time, Prothrombin time is increased by anabolic steroids, antibiotics, anticoagulants, acetylsalicylic acid in large doses, laxatives, nicotinic acid, thiazide diuretics. On this topic, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the following materials. Materials used: |
If you regularly read articles about health problems in pets, as well as methods of treating them, you probably constantly see lines that mention blood tests. In cats, this diagnostic method can be used for almost all types of infectious and invasive diseases. What parameters of this analysis does the veterinarian look at? And what can be understood from it? Let's find out.
In recent years, many breeders do not want to spend a lot of money buying special food for their pets. They replace them with “natural”. Unfortunately, not all cat owners consult professional veterinarians when preparing a new diet. Research shows that in 95% of cases, self-selected food does not meet the cat’s needs at all. Unfortunately, the consequences of this approach are not immediately apparent. A biochemical blood test in cats can prevent trouble.
And we're only talking about biochemistry! A simple blood test, which can be done in a regular clinic, cannot provide such data. However, an experienced (very experienced) specialist will conclude that there is a lack of iron or cyanocobalamin, seeing signs of this under a microscope. But there are few of them.
Within the framework of this article I would like to dwell on something really specific. Almost everyone knows that white blood cells increase with any inflammatory reaction, the level of red blood cells decreases with anemia, etc. But even specialists often have to guess about something more complex, since the only indicator they can focus on is a clinical blood test in cats. A lot depends on the accuracy of his interpretation.
Important! You must take your animal to the clinic on an empty stomach! A mass of leukocytes will almost certainly be found in the blood of an overeating cat, which will give reason to suspect the presence of a serious inflammatory process. You will spend a lot of energy and nerves until it turns out that your pet’s health is fine.
In addition, in the same case, a high content of eosinophils can be detected, which actually happens with. Of course, deworming is a good thing, but you shouldn’t just stuff your cat with medicine. Remember this!
Read also: Roncoleukin for cats: full review of the drug, use, dosage, contraindications
General chemical blood test
A very important stage of any diagnostic study, since its results provide comprehensive data on the health status of your animal. Blood chemistry is used both in making a diagnosis and during preventive examinations of animals. The ability to interpret the results of a chemical study allows you to get an idea of the condition of almost every organ in the cat’s body. First they look at the kidneys.
- BUN (urea nitrogen). Its increase indicates renal dysfunction, dehydration, and can be caused by heart disease, shock or urinary tract obstruction, as well as excessive amounts of protein entering the animal's body with food. A reduced level occurs with edema and polydipsia.
- CREA (creatinine). As in the previous case, an increase is observed in many diseases that in one way or another affect the kidneys. In general, the reasons are the same, which can lead to an increase in nitrogen levels. The only exception is an increase in the proportion of protein products in the diet: creatinine does not respond to this. A decrease in its content in blood plasma is recorded in diseases accompanied by polydipsia.
- PHOS (phosphorus). Again, with kidney disease, its increase is often recorded. This indicates that the excretory system cannot cope with removing excess of this substance from the body. The same applies to gastrointestinal pathologies, when the norm is exceeded several times. It should be remembered that a slight increase in the level of this element in the blood of kittens and young animals is completely normal. A decrease in the amount of phosphorus is very often observed in cases of serious kidney disease, when normal secondary urine is not formed in the excretory system, and almost all the necessary elements are washed out into the external environment.
- Similarly - in the situation with calcium. In general, in blood biochemistry it is the ratio of calcium and phosphorus that is considered. An increase in its amount is always observed in inflammatory kidney diseases, certain types of cancer, sometimes it hints at parathyroid disease, or indicates poisoning, as a result of which the kidneys fail. The decrease may be associated with certain diseases of the parathyroid gland and low blood albumin.
