Laboratory Testing for Cats

Accurate Answers. Early Detection. Better Health.

Whether your cat seems perfectly healthy or is showing signs that something’s not quite right, laboratory testing plays a key role in uncovering what’s going on beneath the surface. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we use lab work to establish health baselines, catch early disease, and guide treatment decisions—all with the goal of helping your cat live a longer, healthier life.

We’ve answered the most common questions about cat lab work to give you clear, reliable information you can trust.

What Is Cat Lab Work?

“Lab work” typically refers to blood and urine testing, often performed as part of a routine wellness visit or when your cat is showing signs of illness. Blood is usually drawn from the jugular vein in the neck or from a front/back leg vein, depending on what’s being tested.

Once collected, samples are run through analyzers or sent to a diagnostic lab to compare your cat’s values against what’s considered normal. We may also collect urine samples using a special non-absorbing litter or by a sterile needle draw from the bladder.

Why Is Baseline Lab Work Important?

Baseline lab work gives your veterinarian a clear picture of what’s normal for your cat, which becomes especially valuable if your cat ever becomes sick. Tracking lab results over time allows us to spot subtle changes before symptoms appear, often catching problems early—when they’re easiest to treat.

Lab work is also essential when starting medications, monitoring chronic conditions, or preparing for anesthesia.

When Does a Cat Need Lab Work?

Most commonly:

  • Annual wellness visits (even for healthy cats)
  • Pre-anesthetic screening before surgery or dental procedures
  • Illness symptoms, such as vomiting, weight loss, or lethargy
  • Monitoring of chronic conditions, like kidney or thyroid disease
  • New cat screenings to check for infectious diseases

Since cats are experts at hiding pain or illness, routine testing helps uncover what they don’t show.

Symptoms That May Require Lab Work

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Weight loss
  • Lethargy or changes in behavior
  • Appetite changes
  • Increased thirst or urination
  • Breathing issues
  • Poor coat condition
  • Chronic infections or unexplained fever

What Can Lab Work Detect in Cats?

Lab tests can help identify a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
  • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
  • Inflammation, anemia, or clotting issues
  • Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances

Each type of test offers a piece of the puzzle:

  • CBC (Complete Blood Count): evaluates red and white blood cells and platelets
  • Blood Chemistry Panel: checks liver, kidneys, pancreas, blood sugar, and electrolytes
  • Thyroid Panel: screens for hyperthyroidism, especially in older cats
  • Urinalysis: detects infections, crystals, kidney function, and more
  • Viral Testing: screens for FeLV and FIV in new or at-risk cats

What Are Electrolytes, and Why Do They Matter?

Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride help regulate hydration, muscle function, and heart rhythm. Abnormal levels can signal vomiting, kidney disease, or other systemic problems—especially important when your cat isn’t eating or drinking normally.

Is Blood Work Alone Enough for a Diagnosis?

Blood work is powerful, but it’s just one tool. We always combine lab testing with:

  • A thorough physical exam
  • Medical history
  • Possibly imaging (like X-rays or ultrasound) for a complete picture

No single test tells the whole story—your veterinarian’s training, hands-on assessment, and experience are just as important as the numbers.

Why Early Detection Makes All the Difference

Cats hide illness—it’s instinctual. By the time a disease becomes obvious, it’s often advanced. Regular lab work allows us to:

  • Catch problems early
  • Begin treatment before your cat suffers
  • Improve outcomes and extend quality of life

When conditions like kidney disease or diabetes are diagnosed early, we can manage them more effectively—and often delay progression.

Let’s Keep Your Cat One Step Ahead of Illness

If your cat is due for annual blood work or showing signs of illness, we’re here to help. Please call us at (337) 893-8522 to schedule an appointment or learn more about what testing is right for your cat.