The most accurate lab tests depend on what we're specifically looking for. The general minimum database, including a CBC, a chemistry panel, and a urinalysis, is a good starting point. Depending on the findings, we might conduct more specific tests or diagnostic imaging such as an ultrasound or a radiograph.

Common lab tests include a complete blood count (CBC) that examines white and red blood cell levels, a chemistry panel that evaluates liver, kidney, and overall organ function, electrolytes, and blood sugar, and a urinalysis to check for any inappropriate proteins or difficulty concentrating urine.

Lab tests in cats are very effective, particularly because cats don't often show obvious signs of illness. This is why routine lab work is so crucial for early disease detection.

Unfortunately, there's no single test for cancer. However, certain indicators on blood work might suggest the possibility of cancer. As always, we compare our findings with the patient's baseline lab tests, clinical signs, and physical exam results.

Blood work can sometimes provide a definitive diagnosis. However, it often serves to guide us toward the problem area and helps inform subsequent diagnostic tests until we find an answer.

Your vet might order lab work for your cat if they suspect an underlying illness. During a comprehensive physical exam, we might discover previously unnoticed signs of illness that warrant further investigation. In such cases, we order comprehensive lab work to understand what's happening with the cat's different body systems.

A baseline lab test is essentially a lab test conducted on a patient when they're healthy. This provides a point of comparison for future instances when the cat might fall sick or if there's a progression of a known illness. It helps us understand if there's progression, if the current state is expected for this patient, or if there's something new or more concerning happening.

No, you don't need a cardiologist to diagnose heart issues with your dog. However, it's always an option and often a good idea. A general practitioner can diagnose a number of cardiac diseases, and for those that we cannot diagnose, we are happy to refer to a specialist.

A board-certified cardiologist is a specialist who's focused their entire career towards cardiac health. They're the gold standard, best practice person to go to for cardiac disease and management, even though many of these diseases can be diagnosed in a general practice setting.

The prognosis for dogs with heart issues varies depending on how early we find it. If a dog is collapsing or struggling to breathe, the prognosis tends to be poor, though with medication, we can give them some good quality time. If we notice just a murmur or some slight exercise intolerance, we can often have them on medication and well-managed for years.