Common diagnostic procedures include various laboratory tests. These are tests that can be performed either directly in a clinic or sent out to a laboratory. Many of the test results are available within a few hours or the next day.

Stool Samples

Stool samples are used to identify the presence of parasites. Samples can be collected by an owner using a clean, dry container, or directly by a veterinarian.

Urine Samples

Urinalysis testing detects various urinary tract diseases. Samples should be collected in a clean, dry container directly before testing; or refrigerated and transported for testing as soon as possible. Sometimes veterinarians collect urine directly from the bladder via cytocentesis . Various urine tests can also help identify other diseases, illnesses and injuries .

Blood Samples

Blood tests can help veterinarians to diagnose many different health problems, including illness, disease and trauma. Blood is collected by a veterinarian or veterinary technician. Blood work is an important part of preventative health care as well as for monitoring on-going health problems. It is advisable to have some blood testing performed before pets have surgery or begin taking certain medications. Blood tests sometimes can identify health problems before pets show any sign of ill health.