Blood panel

A blood panel is a group of tests run on one blood sample. Two parts are common. The complete blood count, or CBC, counts red cells, white cells and platelets. It can show anemia, infection, inflammation or clotting problems. The chemistry profile measures substances such as creatinine, urea, liver enzymes, proteins, electrolytes and glucose. They show how the kidneys, liver, pancreas and other organs are working and whether the cat is dehydrated.

Vets add other tests when needed, including thyroid hormone for hyperthyroidism, SDMA for early kidney changes, and tests for feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus. A panel is often done before anesthesia, when a cat is ill, as a baseline in a healthy adult and every six to twelve months in a senior cat or one on long-term medicine.

Results are compared with reference ranges, but a number outside the range does not always mean disease, and a number inside it does not always mean health. Stress, fasting, age and hydration all change the values. A vet reads the whole picture, together with an exam and a urine test. Ask your vet to explain each abnormal result and whether to repeat it. Cats may need to fast before the test, so ask the clinic.