As pet owners, we want our animals to live long, happy, and healthy lives. But unlike humans, pets can’t tell us when something feels off. That’s why annual bloodwork is one of the most valuable tools in preventive veterinary medicine. Regular blood tests provide a clear picture of your pet’s internal health, allowing veterinarians to detect and address problems before they become serious.

At North Royalton Animal Hospital, we believe early detection is the best form of protection. Annual bloodwork helps us catch hidden illnesses, making treatment more effective, less invasive, and often less expensive.

Why Annual Bloodwork Matters

It’s natural to assume that a happy, active pet is a healthy pet, but many medical conditions develop silently, without obvious symptoms. By the time a pet shows signs of illness, the disease may have already progressed. Routine blood tests allow us to identify potential problems before they impact your pet’s quality of life.

Benefits of Routine Bloodwork

  • Early Disease Detection – Many illnesses, such as kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, and thyroid imbalances, begin with subtle internal changes that only bloodwork can detect.
  • Easier and Less Costly Treatment – Catching a condition early often means less aggressive, more affordable treatment options. For example, early-stage kidney disease can often be managed with dietary changes alone, whereas advanced disease may require hospitalization or long-term medications.
  • Baseline Health Monitoring – Bloodwork helps establish your pet’s “normal” values, making it easier to detect even small changes over time.
  • Peace of Mind – Nothing is more reassuring than knowing your pet is truly healthy. Normal bloodwork results mean you can breathe easier, confident that your pet is thriving.

Learn more about the importance of wellness exams from the AVMA.

What Does Bloodwork Reveal?

Blood tests provide valuable insights into your pet’s internal health, helping veterinarians evaluate organ function, immune response, hydration, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the most common tests:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Detects infections, anemia, inflammation, and clotting disorders.
  • A high white blood cell count may indicate infection or inflammation.
  • A low red blood cell count (anemia) can lead to weakness, fatigue, and pale gums.

Blood Chemistry Panel

  • Evaluates kidney, liver, and pancreatic function.
  • Elevated kidney values may signal early kidney disease, which is easier to manage when detected early.
  • Abnormal liver enzymes may indicate liver disease or toxin exposure.

Thyroid Function Tests

  • Detects hypothyroidism in dogs (weight gain, lethargy, skin problems) and hyperthyroidism in cats (weight loss, hyperactivity, increased appetite).

Blood Glucose Levels

  • Identifies diabetes, which can cause excessive thirst, weight loss, and increased urination.

Learn about recognizing health problems in senior pets.

Bloodwork by Life Stage: When and Why It Matters

Every stage of your pet’s life comes with different health risks and monitoring needs.

Puppies and Kittens

  • First-year bloodwork establishes a baseline for future comparison.
  • Helps detect congenital conditions (e.g., liver shunts, immune deficiencies).
  • Ensures young pets are healthy enough for spay/neuter surgery and vaccinations.

Adult Pets (1-7 years old)

  • Annual bloodwork allows for early disease detection, even in outwardly healthy pets.
  • Screens for underlying conditions like liver/kidney disease, diabetes, and infections.

Senior Pets (7+ years old)

  • Older pets require more frequent monitoring, as age-related diseases (arthritis, kidney disease, cancer) become more common.
  • Detects hidden organ dysfunction before symptoms appear, improving treatment outcomes.
  • Ensures your pet remains comfortable, pain-free, and active in their golden years.

Read about preventive testing for senior pets from Zoetis Petcare.

Addressing Common Concerns About Bloodwork

Many pet owners have questions about blood tests, especially if their pet appears healthy. Here are some common concerns we hear at North Royalton Animal Hospital:

1. “Is bloodwork really necessary if my pet seems fine?”

Yes! Many diseases don’t show symptoms right away. Catching conditions early means less invasive and more affordable treatments.

2. “Is bloodwork safe?”

Absolutely. Blood draws are a routine, low-risk procedure performed by trained professionals. Most pets tolerate it well, and we take every step to ensure their comfort.

3. “What if the results are abnormal?”

Not all abnormal results mean something serious. Some changes may just require monitoring or minor lifestyle adjustments. Our veterinarians will go over the findings with you and discuss the next best steps.

Learn why regular veterinary visits are essential.

Preparing Your Pet for Bloodwork

To ensure accurate results and a stress-free experience:

  • Fasting may be required – Check with your vet beforehand. Certain tests, like glucose and cholesterol, require an empty stomach for the most reliable results.
  • Reduce stress – Keep your pet calm before the visit. Bring a favorite toy or blanket, and reassure them with gentle praise.
  • Hydration is important – Ensure your pet has access to fresh water before the appointment.

Understanding Bloodwork Results and Next Steps

Once results are in, we will review them with you. Here’s what different results may mean:

  • Normal Results – A great sign that your pet is in good health! Regular testing will help us track changes over time.
  • Mild Abnormalities – Often manageable with dietary changes, supplements, or rechecking in a few months.
  • Significant Abnormalities – May require further diagnostics or treatment. Catching a disease early often leads to better long-term outcomes.

At North Royalton Animal Hospital, we take the time to explain results in detail and create a care plan tailored to your pet’s needs.

A Proactive Approach to Pet Health

Annual bloodwork is an investment in your pet’s health and longevity. It allows for early detection, easier treatments, and greater peace of mind knowing your pet is getting the best care possible.

Take the Next Step in Preventive Care

Schedule your pet’s annual bloodwork today!

Request an Appointment
 Call us at North Royalton Animal Hospital to learn more about how routine testing can help your pet live a longer, healthier life.