Blood Tests for Pets

Just like with people, blood tests are an important diagnostic and pre-anaesthetic screening tool for pets. At Vets in Cranbourne, we recommend regular blood testing for dogs and cats to help identify potential health concerns early, assess their suitability for anaesthesia, and diagnose illnesses when they aren’t feeling their best.

Why Are Blood Tests Important for Pets?

Pets can’t always show us when something is wrong, making blood tests an essential tool for detecting hidden health issues. Regular blood screening for dogs and cats supports:

Identifying illnesses early, before symptoms appear.
Minimising anaesthetic risks with pre-screening.
Diagnosing the cause of illness when pets are unwell.
Monitoring recovery and adjusting treatments as needed.

A blood panel for dogs and cats provides information such as:

Organ function: including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas
Enzyme levels: indicating potential muscle inflammation or damage
Red and white blood cell counts: revealing signs of anaemia, infection, inflammation, or immune response
Hormonal imbalances and diseases: such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, or infections
Blood clotting factors: abnormalities that could cause bleeding issues or affect wound healing

When Might Your Pet Need a Blood Test?

Circumstances when pet blood tests are recommended include:

Routine Health Screenings: Regular blood tests help detect illness or decreased organ function before pets become unwell. This is especially vital for older pets. We advise yearly blood tests for pets, increasing to twice a year from age 7–9 or if any health concerns arise.
Pre-Anaesthetic Screening: Pre-surgery blood tests assess anaesthetic risks. At Vets in Cranbourne, we recommend all patients receiving anaesthesia undergo blood testing unless they have done so recently.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Regular veterinary blood tests assist in tracking the effectiveness of treatment and managing side effects for pets with ongoing health issues.

When Your Pet Is Ill

Blood tests play a critical role in diagnosing health problems when your pet is unwell, not just as a preventative measure. If your pet is showing signs like lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual behaviour, blood screening at Vets in Cranbourne can uncover the underlying cause of their illness.

How Are Blood Tests Performed?

Pet blood tests are quick, straightforward, and minimally invasive. Our veterinarian will:

Shave a small patch on your pet’s leg or neck
Sterilise the area
Draw a small blood sample

We process samples with in-house analysers for quick pre-anaesthetic screening and diagnostic results. For more detailed testing, samples are sent to an external pathology lab. The procedure is usually brief and causes minimal discomfort for most pets.

Book a Blood Test for Your Pet

At Vets in Cranbourne, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for your pooch or feline friend. Whether your pet needs a routine veterinary blood test or specialised screening, our experienced team is here to help.

Book an appointment today.

Need an appointment?

Where your pet’s unwell, or it’s time for a general check-up or vaccination, your furry friend is in good hands. Book online to see our expert Vets in Cranbourne!

Contact Details

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 7pm
Saturday: 8:30am – 2pm
Sunday: Closed

What Our Vets in Cranbourne Pet Owners Really Think

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 239 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Bee Johnson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent vet, not a big corporate entity but the kind of care you want for your furbabies
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katrina Romeo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have only recently moved to the area  so unfortunately our old vet was just too far away for us to continue travelling to.

Tonight, we had to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to our beloved dog. From the moment we arrived, the nurses, staff and vet were absolutely amazing. They were so patient and compassionate, explained everything to us in detail and gave us all the time we needed.

I left in a bit of a rush and didn’t really get the chance to properly thank everyone, so I just wanted to say a massive thank you for the kindness and care you showed us, and especially for giving our beautiful girl such a peaceful and dignified end to her life. It meant more to us than you probably realise.

After the care we received tonight, I know we have found our new vet, and I will definitely be bringing our cat here from now on.

Thank you again for taking such beautiful care of our girl in her final moments.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jenni Dean 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very caring and compassionate staff. Fitted my dog in when the regular vet wouldn't. That was last year and they have been our regular vet ever since. Wouldn't take my animals anywhere else
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rhiannon Brown 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been to quite a few vets over the years, and by far, this would have to be the best veterinary clinic I’ve ever been to. ❤️

All of the staff are so welcoming, caring and genuinely love every fur baby that comes through their doors. What really stands out to me is how calm and professional they remain, even when dealing with an aggressive or anxious animal. They never judge the animal or become frustrated — they simply stay calm, patient and completely focused on what the animal needs.

You can truly see how much they care about the wellbeing of every pet that comes in. It’s such a wonderful feeling knowing your fur baby is in caring, capable hands.

I honestly couldn’t recommend this vet highly enough. 🐾❤️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alexis Ignace 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr George and his team are an absolute treasure in this day and age. Superb service, very professional and keep the prices as affordable as they can! Most recommended ten fold.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Craig Rogers 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thankyou to vets in cranboune, again I had to say goodbye to another fur baby and Allison and the vet who helped us where amazing Thankyou for your care and service
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   MARK 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Would like to thank the Vets in Cranbourne for looking after Baby my dog and for calling and checking in on her.And also helping with her on site health checks at the vet. Very much appreciated from Mark in Cranbourne.
And Baby ⭐
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jayne Harper 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr George and the team at Vets in Cranbourne are fantastic.
They are thorough and caring and my dogs always get the best care.
Thanks so much and I'd definitely recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Stuart Anderson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Honest affordable friendly

FAQs

What happens if the blood test results are abnormal?

If your pet’s veterinary blood tests show abnormal results, your vet will go over the findings with you and recommend additional testing or treatment.

Are there risks associated with blood tests for pets?

Pet blood tests generally pose minimal risks. Occasionally, pets may experience mild bruising, swelling, or slight discomfort at the blood draw site. Some may also develop a mild case of clipper rash from the shaving of the area.

Can I feed my pet before a blood test?

Different blood tests come with different requirements, just like with humans. When booking your pet’s appointment, be sure to confirm with our team whether fasting is necessary before the test.

199 South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne VIC 3977

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