The Importance of Annual Bloodwork for Early Disease Detection in Pets

Could your pet be hiding signs of illness?
Dogs and cats are experts at masking discomfort—meaning serious health conditions can go unnoticed until they’re advanced. That’s why annual bloodwork is a key part of preventive veterinary care.

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital in Kamloops, BC, we believe early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep pets living long, healthy lives. In this article, we’ll explain what annual bloodwork includes, what it can uncover, and why it’s so important—especially for senior pets.

Book your pet’s wellness exam today.

What’s Included in Routine Bloodwork for Pets?

Annual blood testing provides a detailed look at your pet’s internal health. It typically includes:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates red and white blood cells and platelets, helping detect infections, anemia, or immune disorders.
  • Serum Biochemistry Panel: Measures organ function (liver, kidneys, pancreas), electrolytes, blood sugar, and more.
  • Thyroid Function (T4 Test): Especially important for senior pets to screen for hyperthyroidism (in cats) and hypothyroidism (in dogs).
  • Urinalysis (optional but highly recommended): Assesses kidney health, hydration status, and potential infections.

What Can Annual Bloodwork Detect Early?

Bloodwork can catch a range of common (and potentially serious) conditions before symptoms appear:

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

One of the most common diagnoses in older cats, CKD often shows no symptoms until kidney function is severely reduced.
Learn more from Cornell’s Feline Health Center

Thyroid Disorders

Liver Disease

Often subtle in early stages, liver problems can be identified through enzymes in a chemistry panel.
Read more on liver disease in older pets

Diabetes Mellitus

Increased thirst, urination, and weight changes are common—but early cases may be missed.
AAHA’s Guide to Diabetes in Pets

Other Conditions

Bloodwork can also help detect:

  • Dehydration
  • Infections
  • Anemia
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Pancreatitis
  • Cushing’s or Addison’s disease

Early diagnosis means simpler treatment, fewer complications, and often, a better outcome.

The Role of Bloodwork in Senior Pet Care

As pets age, their risk for chronic diseases increases. Many conditions develop slowly and without obvious symptoms. That’s why bloodwork becomes even more important as your pet enters their senior years (around age 7 for dogs, age 8 for cats).

Zoetis explains the importance of preventive testing for seniors

For seniors, we may recommend bloodwork every 6–12 months to monitor ongoing trends and catch new issues early.

What Happens During a Blood Test Appointment?

Good news: it’s a quick and minimally invasive procedure.

  • A small sample is collected from a vein (typically in the neck or leg).
  • Most pets tolerate it well—even without sedation.
  • Results are often available within 48 hours.
  • Your veterinarian will explain the results, answer your questions, and recommend any follow-up testing or treatment.

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, bloodwork is often performed as part of your pet’s annual wellness exam, ensuring a complete picture of their health.

Why Annual Testing Is Better Than Waiting for Symptoms

By the time symptoms show, many diseases are already advanced. That’s why routine testing is essential—even for pets who “seem fine.”

  • Early detection opens up more treatment options
  • Preventive care is often more affordable than treating advanced illness
  • Pets can’t tell us when something feels off

What If My Pet’s Bloodwork Is Normal?

That’s great news—and still valuable.

  • It creates a baseline for your pet’s future lab tests.
  • It reassures you that everything looks healthy under the surface.
  • It helps us catch changes early if anything shifts in the future.

Normal results are just as important as abnormal ones in long-term care planning.

Our Commitment to Preventive Care at Oriole Road Animal Hospital

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we believe the best medicine is proactive. That’s why we recommend annual bloodwork as part of every pet’s preventive health plan.

Whether you have a playful puppy, a calm senior cat, or anything in between—we’re here to help them thrive.

How to Schedule a Bloodwork Appointment

Ready to take the next step in protecting your pet’s health?

Annual bloodwork is one of the most powerful tools we have to detect illness early, manage chronic disease, and give your dog or cat the best possible life.

Small test. Big impact.
Take a proactive step today—because your pet’s health is worth it.

Schedule your appointment now