How Annual Lab Testing Helps Catch Hidden Illness
Your pet may look healthy on the outside, but some of the most serious health issues develop silently. That’s why routine lab testing is such a vital part of your pet’s wellness plan. At St. Charles Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive blood work and urinalysis to help detect hidden illness early—before symptoms appear.
Annual blood testing provides a snapshot of your pet’s internal health. A complete blood count (CBC) measures red and white blood cells, helping us detect infections, inflammation, anemia, or immune system issues. A biochemistry panel evaluates organ function, including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Abnormal levels may point to early kidney disease, diabetes, liver dysfunction, or electrolyte imbalances.
Urinalysis is another valuable diagnostic tool. It can reveal urinary tract infections, crystals, kidney function problems, or signs of diabetes. When paired with blood work, it gives us a fuller picture of your pet’s internal health.
These tests are especially important for senior pets, who are more prone to chronic conditions. But even healthy adult pets benefit from yearly lab work—it gives us baseline results to compare over time, making it easier to spot changes as your pet ages.
We may also recommend additional tests depending on your pet’s breed, lifestyle, or symptoms. For example, thyroid testing is often useful for older cats and certain dog breeds prone to hypothyroidism.
The best part? Early detection can make all the difference. Finding a condition in its early stages often means more treatment options, better outcomes, and lower long-term costs. It can also prevent more serious complications down the road.
Our in-house lab allows us to run most tests quickly, with same-day results in many cases. If further analysis is needed, we partner with trusted reference labs to ensure accuracy and fast turnaround.
If it’s been over a year since your pet’s last lab work, or if they’re showing subtle changes like increased thirst or reduced energy, schedule a wellness visit with lab testing at St. Charles Animal Hospital today by calling (863) 438-6600 or giving us a visit at 2360 North Blvd West,Davenport, FL 33837. Proactive care now leads to a healthier, happier future.
