Glossary

Veterinary lab words explained

Name: Pashupatinath Vet Lab
Address: C-200, C Sector, Shahpura, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462016, IN
Telephone: +918817501118

131 common words from lab reports and test names, in plain language. Normal values differ between dogs, cats, cows and buffaloes, so the reference range on your own report is the one to use.

A

ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase)also: ALKP, Alk phos, Serum alkaline phosphatase: ALP (alkaline phosphatase) is an enzyme made in the liver, bile ducts, bone and some other tissues; a high blood level can point to a bile flow problem, liver disease, bone activity or hormone effects.; In growing puppies, kittens and calves, a higher ALP from bone growth is normal. In dogs, Cushing's disease (too much cortisol) and certain medicines can raise ALP a great deal, so tell your vet about any medicines. In cats, even a small rise matters, because cats normally have little ALP and it clears from their blood quickly. Read with GGT and bilirubin, it helps the vet judge the liver and bile ducts. A vet interprets the result with the animal's signs.; LFT ALP GGTP
ALT (SGPT)also: SGPT, Alanine aminotransferase, Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase: ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is an enzyme found mainly inside liver cells in dogs and cats; when liver cells are damaged, ALT leaks into the blood and the level rises.; A raised ALT may indicate liver cell injury from causes such as infection, inflammation, toxins, poor blood supply or some medicines. It shows damage, not how well the liver is working, so vets may add bile acids, bilirubin or albumin tests. In cows and buffaloes, ALT is not a reliable liver marker, so vets usually look at AST, GGT and GLDH instead. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet reads ALT with the animal's signs and other results.; LFT ALT Bile Acids (Fasting & Post-prandial)
AST (SGOT)also: SGOT, Aspartate aminotransferase, Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase: AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in liver cells, muscle (including heart muscle) and red blood cells; it leaks into the blood when these cells are damaged.; A raised AST may indicate liver or muscle damage, so vets often check CK (CPK), a muscle enzyme, to help tell the two apart. In cows and buffaloes, AST is commonly used with GGT as a liver marker, and it also rises after muscle injury, for example in a cow that has been unable to get up. Burst red cells in the sample can raise it falsely. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets AST with the animal's signs and other results.; LFT CPK AST
Acid-fast stain (AFB)also: AFB stain, Ziehl-Neelsen stain, ZN stain: An acid-fast stain is a special dye test used under the microscope to find acid-fast bacteria (AFB). These germs keep a red dye even after being washed with acid. It is mainly used to look for the germs of tuberculosis and Johne's disease.; The Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain is the classic method, and acid-fast germs show up as red rods on a blue background. The stain is quick, but it cannot tell closely related germs apart. It can also miss them when only a few are present, so the vet may add PCR or other tests. Tuberculosis can pass to people, so wear gloves when handling sick animals or their samples, wash hands well and see a doctor if you feel unwell. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Bovine Tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) RT-PCR Johne's Disease (MAP) RT-PCR - Faeces Acid Fast Stain (AFB Stain)
Acute and chronic disease: An acute disease starts suddenly and usually lasts a short time, while a chronic disease develops slowly or lasts a long time, often months or more. Vets and lab reports use these words to describe how long a problem has been present.; The difference matters because test results can look different. In sudden (acute) inflammation, the white blood cell count and acute-phase proteins such as CRP may rise quickly. Long-standing (chronic) disease may instead cause mild anaemia or raised globulin. Pathology reports may also say 'subacute', which is in between, or 'chronic-active', a long-standing problem that is still active. A sudden worsening of a long-term problem is sometimes called 'acute on chronic'. Your vet explains what these words mean for your animal.; CBC Protein Total, Albumin, Globulin CRP
Acute-phase proteinalso: APP, Acute-phase reactant: An acute-phase protein is a blood protein whose level changes quickly when the body reacts to inflammation, infection or injury. Most are made by the liver, and tests for them help show that inflammation is present.; Some acute-phase proteins rise, such as CRP, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin and fibrinogen, while albumin tends to fall. The most useful one depends on the animal: CRP and SAA in dogs, SAA in cats, and haptoglobin and SAA in cows and buffaloes. They do not show the cause of the inflammation, but repeat tests can help the vet see whether an animal is getting better. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Haptoglobin SAA CRP
Aflatoxin M1also: AFM1, Aflatoxin in milk: Aflatoxin M1 is a toxin that can appear in milk when cows or buffaloes eat feed contaminated with aflatoxin B1, a poison made by moulds. It is a food-safety concern for people who drink the milk or eat milk products.; The moulds that make aflatoxin grow on damp or badly stored feed, such as groundnut cake, maize and cottonseed cake. Boiling or pasteurising milk does not destroy aflatoxin M1. Testing helps dairy farmers, vendors and cooperatives check milk and look for a feed problem. The test is usually an ELISA or a rapid kit, and the lab confirms the method when you book. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Milk Aflatoxin M1 Test
Albuminalso: ALB, Serum albumin: Albumin is the main protein in blood plasma; it is made by the liver and helps keep water inside the blood vessels and carry substances around the body.; A low albumin may indicate protein loss through the gut, kidneys, bleeding or skin wounds, poor production by a failing liver, or long-term inflammation or poor nutrition. Very low levels can let fluid leak out, causing swelling or fluid in the belly or chest. A high albumin usually means dehydration. Because part of the blood calcium is carried on albumin, vets read calcium with it. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets it with the animal's signs.; Albumin, Serum Protein Total, Albumin, Globulin UPC
Ammoniaalso: Blood ammonia, Plasma ammonia, NH3: Ammonia is a waste product made when protein is broken down, mostly in the gut. A healthy liver turns it into urea, so a high blood ammonia level may indicate liver failure or blood bypassing the liver.; High ammonia can affect the brain and cause dullness, wandering, head pressing or fits, sometimes worse after a meal. In cows and buffaloes, ammonia can also rise after they eat too much urea in feed. Ammonia keeps rising in a blood sample after it is taken, so the sample must be kept cold and tested very quickly. The lab confirms the sample needs when you book. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; LFT Ammonia Bile Acids (Fasting & Post-prandial)
Amylasealso: AMY, Serum amylase, Alpha-amylase: Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest starch; it is made mainly by the pancreas and is also found in some other tissues.; In dogs, amylase can rise with pancreatitis, but it also rises with kidney disease and some gut problems, so it is not specific; in cats it is of little use for pancreatitis. For this reason vets often prefer species-specific pancreatic lipase tests, cPL for dogs and fPL for cats. A normal amylase does not rule pancreatitis out. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet reads the result with the animal's signs and other tests.; Amylase, Pancreatic Alpha, Serum cPL fPL
Anaemiaalso: Anemia, Low haemoglobin, Khoon ki kami (Hindi): Anaemia means the blood has fewer red blood cells or less haemoglobin than normal, so less oxygen reaches the body's tissues.; Signs can include pale gums or eyes, weakness, tiredness, fast breathing and poor appetite. Common causes are blood loss (wounds, worms, ticks or fleas), red cells being destroyed (for example by blood parasites spread by ticks, or an immune attack) and the bone marrow not making enough cells (as in long-term illness or kidney disease). A CBC, PCV, reticulocyte count and blood smear help show how severe it is and the likely cause. A vet decides on further tests or treatment.; CBC Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear)Reticulocyte Count
Antibiotic residue in milkalso: Antibiotic residues, Drug residue in milk, Inhibitory substances: Antibiotic residue in milk means traces of antibiotic medicine left in milk from a treated animal. Residues usually appear when milk is taken from an animal before the medicine has fully cleared from its body.; Residues are a food-safety concern. They can affect people who are allergic to some antibiotics, spoil curd and cheese making, and add to the problem of antibiotic resistance. Milk residue tests are usually rapid screening kits, and the antibiotic groups covered depend on the kit, as confirmed when you book. A positive screen may need confirmation by another method. Follow your vet's advice on when milk from a treated animal can be used again. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Milk Antibiotic Residue Test
Antibodyalso: Ab, Immunoglobulin, Ig: An antibody is a protein the immune system makes to fight a particular germ. Antibody tests can show whether an animal's body has met that germ, through infection or vaccination, but not always whether it is sick now.; The body takes time to make antibodies after infection, so a test done very early may be negative. Antibodies can also stay long after an animal recovers, and young animals can carry antibodies from their mother's first milk (colostrum). Some tests tell the type of antibody: IgM often points to a recent infection, while IgG usually lasts longer. A vet may test a second sample later to see whether levels are rising, and reads results with the animal's signs, history and vaccination record.; Canine Ehrlichia canis Antibody (Rapid Test)FIV Antibody (Rapid Test)Neospora caninum Antibody (ELISA)
Antigenalso: Ag: An antigen is a part of a germ, such as a protein on a virus, bacterium or parasite, that the immune system can recognise. Antigen tests look for the germ itself, so a positive result usually means the germ is present now.; Antigen tests are often used in sick animals because they can find an infection before the body has made antibodies. Examples include kits for parvovirus in dog faeces, FeLV in cat blood and heartworm in dogs. A negative result does not always rule out infection, for example when the infection is very early or the germ is shed only now and then. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Parvo Virus Ag (Rapid Test)Canine Heartworm Antigen (Rapid Test)FeLV Antigen (Rapid Test)
Aseptic milk samplealso: Sterile milk sample, Aseptic quarter milk sample: An aseptic milk sample is milk taken from one teat of a cow or buffalo into a sterile tube in a very clean way, so that any germs found come from the udder and not from hands, skin or dirt.; It is used for milk culture and sensitivity and for PCR tests for mastitis. Usually the hands are gloved, the teat is cleaned and dried, the first streams are thrown away, the teat end is wiped with an alcohol (spirit) swab and milk is squirted into the tube held at an angle so it does not touch the teat. Where the vet agrees, the sample is taken before antibiotics are given. Label it with the animal and quarter and keep it chilled. A dirty sample can grow skin germs and mislead.; Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)Mastitis Pathogen RT-PCR Panel Mycoplasma bovis Milk RT-PCR

B

Baermann techniquealso: Baermann test, Baermann funnel technique: The Baermann technique is a lab method for finding lungworm larvae (young worms) in fresh dung or stool. The sample sits in warm water in a funnel, live larvae swim out and sink to the bottom, and they are then checked under a microscope.; It is used in cows, buffaloes and dogs with cough or breathing problems when lungworms are suspected. Because the test depends on live larvae, the sample must be fresh and should not be put in a fridge. The vet may advise how to collect it. Larvae are passed on and off, so a negative result does not always rule out lungworms, and repeat tests may be needed. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)Lungworm Larvae Detection (Baermann Test)
Bile acidsalso: Serum bile acids, SBA, Bile acid stimulation test: Bile acids are substances made by the liver to help digest fat. The liver normally clears them from the blood, so a high level may indicate poor liver function or blood bypassing the liver through an abnormal vessel (a shunt).; The test is usually done on two samples, one after a fast and one after a meal, as planned by the vet. It is mainly used in dogs and cats to check liver function. It can also help look for a portosystemic shunt, a blood vessel that carries blood around the liver instead of through it. In an animal with jaundice (yellow gums or eyes) from liver or bile duct disease, bile acids will be high anyway, so the test adds little. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; LFT Ammonia Bile Acids (Fasting & Post-prandial)
Bilirubinalso: TBIL, Serum bilirubin, Direct and indirect bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when old red blood cells are broken down; the liver takes it up and passes it out in bile.; A high level can cause jaundice (icterus), a yellow colour of the gums, eyes and skin. It may come from fast red cell breakdown, as with blood parasites or an immune attack, from liver disease or from blocked bile flow. Reports may show total, direct (processed by the liver) and indirect (not yet processed) bilirubin; the split gives clues, but in animals it is read together with the CBC and liver enzymes. A vet interprets the result with the animal's signs.; CBC LFT Bilirubin Total, Direct & Indirect
Biopsyalso: Tissue biopsy, Tissue sample: A biopsy is a small piece of tissue removed by a veterinarian so it can be examined under a microscope to find out what is causing a lump, sore or other disease.; The tissue is put at once into formalin, a preserving liquid, in a leak-proof container with enough formalin to cover it well. In the lab, very thin slices are cut, stained and examined by a pathologist; this is called histopathology. Because a biopsy shows how cells are arranged in the tissue, it can often tell the type of growth and whether it may have been fully removed. Formalin is harmful, so wear gloves and avoid breathing its fumes.; Histopathology / Biopsy FNAC
Bleeding time and clotting timealso: BT, CT, Buccal mucosal bleeding time (BMBT), Whole blood clotting time: Bleeding time is how long a small, standard cut, usually on the inner lip or the skin, takes to stop bleeding; clotting time is how long fresh blood takes to clot outside the body.; Bleeding time mainly checks how well platelets and small blood vessels work, while clotting time gives a rough check of the clotting proteins. Both are simple bedside tests done on the live animal, so they cannot be done on a sample sent by courier. They are screening tests: an abnormal result usually leads to a platelet count or tests such as PT and APTT. A vet interprets them with the animal's signs and history.; BT CT Platelet Count
Blood group (DEA 1)also: DEA 1, Dog erythrocyte antigen 1, Blood typing, Canine blood grouping: A blood group is a marker on the surface of red blood cells; in dogs the most important one for transfusions is DEA 1 (dog erythrocyte antigen 1), and a dog is either DEA 1 positive or negative.; Knowing a dog's DEA 1 type helps the vet choose a suitable donor before a blood transfusion, and a cross-match, which tests the patient's blood against the donor's, adds an extra safety check. Cats have a different system with types A, B and AB, and the lab lists a separate feline blood typing test for cats; in cats, mismatched blood can be dangerous even at the first transfusion. A vet decides which tests are needed before a transfusion.; Blood Cross Matching (Major & Minor)Canine Blood Grouping (DEA 1)Feline Blood Typing
Blood smearalso: Peripheral blood smear, PBS, Blood film: A blood smear is a thin layer of blood spread on a glass slide, dried, stained and examined under a microscope to look at the blood cells and for blood parasites.; A smear lets the lab see the shape and look of red cells, white cells and platelets, check the counts by eye and search for blood parasites spread by ticks, such as Babesia, Theileria and Anaplasma. A smear made soon after collection, from fresh or EDTA blood, gives the clearest picture. Parasites can be few in the blood, so a negative smear does not always rule out infection, and the vet may add a PCR test.; Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear)GBP Tick fever (cattle)

C

CBC (Complete Blood Count)also: Complete blood count, Full blood count, FBC, Blood count: A CBC (complete blood count) is a blood test that counts and measures the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, and reports haemoglobin and other red cell values.; It is one of the most common first tests for a sick animal and for health checks. A CBC can help detect anaemia, infection or inflammation, dehydration and platelet problems, and with a blood smear it can show blood parasites. It uses whole blood in an EDTA tube. Each value is compared with the reference range for the species printed on the report, and a veterinarian reads the results together with the animal's signs and history.; CBC Hemogram (CBC + ESR)GBP
CK / CPKalso: CK, CPK, Creatine kinase, Creatine phosphokinase: CK (creatine kinase), also called CPK, is an enzyme (a working protein) found mainly in muscle. When muscle is damaged, CK leaks into the blood, so a high level may indicate recent or ongoing muscle injury.; CK rises quickly after muscle injury and falls again soon after the damage stops, so it helps show whether damage is recent or still going on. Common causes include injury, fits, injections into muscle, hard exercise and long periods of lying down, such as in a cow that cannot get up. CK is often read with AST, which also comes from muscle but stays high for longer. For heart muscle damage, troponin is usually the preferred test in animals. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; CPK CK-MB AST
CMT (California Mastitis Test)also: California Mastitis Test, Mastitis paddle test, Cow-side mastitis test: The CMT (California Mastitis Test) is a quick udder health test in which milk from each quarter of the udder is mixed with a reagent in a paddle. The more the mixture thickens or gels, the more cells the milk has, which may indicate mastitis.; CMT is commonly used to find subclinical mastitis, where the milk looks normal but the udder is inflamed. The reagent breaks open the cells in milk, and their contents make the mixture thick. Each quarter is graded by how much it thickens. CMT does not show which germ is involved, so a positive quarter may need a milk culture. If a culture is planned, milk should be collected cleanly and before any antibiotic is given. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Mastitis CMT CMT Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)also: CRP, C-reactive protein: CRP (C-reactive protein) is a protein made by the liver that rises quickly in the blood when there is inflammation, infection or tissue injury. It can show that inflammation is present, but not what is causing it.; CRP is most useful in dogs, where it rises soon after a problem starts and falls again as the animal recovers. Vets may repeat it to follow progress, for example after surgery or during treatment. In cats, CRP rises much less, so serum amyloid A (SAA) is usually the preferred marker. A normal CRP does not rule out every disease. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; CBC SAA CRP
Calciumalso: Ca, Total calcium, Serum calcium: Calcium is a mineral the body needs for strong bones and teeth, for muscles and nerves to work, for a steady heartbeat and for blood clotting.; In cows and buffaloes, low blood calcium around calving causes milk fever, and in a nursing mother dog it can cause eclampsia, with trembling and fits; both need a vet at once. High calcium may be seen with some cancers, kidney disease, parathyroid problems or too much vitamin D. Part of the calcium in blood is carried on albumin, so vets read total calcium with albumin; ionised calcium is the free, active part. EDTA blood cannot be used for calcium tests, and a vet interprets results with the animal's signs.; Calcium Total Ionised Calcium Mineral Profile (Calcium, Phosphorus & Magnesium)
Carrier animalalso: Carrier, Silent carrier, Asymptomatic carrier: A carrier animal carries a germ in its body and can pass it to other animals, often while looking healthy. It may never have been sick, or it may have recovered from the illness but kept the germ.; Carriers matter because they can quietly spread disease in a home, farm or herd. Cows and buffaloes that recover from tick fever may stay carriers. A calf infected with BVD virus before birth may spread it for life. Cats that recover from cat flu may shed the virus again when stressed. Carriers may shed germs only now and then, so one negative test does not always clear an animal. PCR, antigen and antibody tests can help find carriers. Your vet decides which test to use and what a positive result means.; BVD Antigen ELISA Feline Respiratory Disease RT-PCR Panel (Cat Flu)Bovine Tick Fever RT-PCR Panel (Theileria, Babesia & Anaplasma)
Cholesterolalso: CHOL, Total cholesterol, Serum cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat-like substance made by the liver and taken in from food; the body uses it to build cell walls and to make some hormones and bile.; In dogs, high cholesterol may be linked with an underactive thyroid, Cushing's disease, diabetes, some kidney diseases or pancreatitis. Low cholesterol may be seen with liver failure, a liver shunt (a blood vessel that bypasses the liver) or poor absorption from the gut. Unlike in people, high cholesterol in pets is usually a sign of another problem rather than a heart risk in itself. A lipid profile is usually done on a fasting sample, and a vet reads it with the animal's signs.; Lipid Profile Cholesterol Total Thyroid Profile (T3, T4 & TSH)
Clinical mastitisalso: Visible mastitis, Thanaila (Hindi): Clinical mastitis is udder inflammation with signs you can see, such as clots, flakes, watery or bloody milk, or a swollen, hot or painful quarter. Severe cases can also cause fever, weakness and loss of appetite.; Clinical mastitis needs a vet's attention promptly, and severe cases can be life-threatening. Before any antibiotic is given, a clean milk sample from the affected quarter can be sent for culture and sensitivity. This can find the germ and show which antibiotics may work. A PCR panel can also help identify common mastitis germs. Knowing the germ helps the vet plan treatment and herd control. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; CMT Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)Mastitis Pathogen RT-PCR Panel
Colostrumalso: First milk, Khees (Hindi): Colostrum is the thick, yellowish first milk a cow or buffalo makes after giving birth; it is rich in antibodies that protect the newborn calf against infections.; Calves are born with very little antibody protection of their own, so they depend on the antibodies in colostrum, and a calf's gut can absorb them only for a short time after birth. Colostrum quality differs from one mother to another; a Brix reading (a quick measure of its solids) or an IgG (main antibody) test can help check it. A blood test on the calf, such as serum IgG or total protein, can show whether enough antibodies were taken in. Your vet can advise on newborn calf care.; Calf Passive Transfer Test (Serum IgG / Total Protein)Colostrum Quality Test (Brix / IgG)
Coombs testalso: Direct Coombs test, Direct antiglobulin test, DAT: The Coombs test checks whether antibodies are stuck to an animal's own red blood cells, which can be a sign that the immune system is destroying them.; It is mainly used when immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) is suspected, a condition in which the body attacks its own red cells. A positive result supports an immune cause, but it can also be seen with some infections such as blood parasites, after a blood transfusion or with some medicines. A negative result does not always rule IMHA out. The lab lists this test for dogs and cats, and a vet reads it with the CBC, a blood smear and the animal's signs.; Reticulocyte Count DAT Saline Agglutination Test (Auto-agglutination)
Cortisolalso: Serum cortisol: Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone, made by the adrenal glands near the kidneys. Cortisol tests help vets look for Cushing's disease (too much cortisol) and Addison's disease (too little), mostly in dogs and less often in cats.; A single cortisol result is hard to read on its own, because stress and illness change the level. Vets therefore often use timed tests, such as the ACTH stimulation test or a suppression test. In these, cortisol is measured before and after an injection given by the vet. The urine cortisol to creatinine ratio is another screening test. Steroid medicines can change results, so tell your vet about every medicine the animal is taking. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Cortisol ACTH Stimulation Test UCC
Creatininealso: CREA, Serum creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product made at a steady rate by the muscles and removed from the blood by the kidneys, so it is commonly used to check how well the kidneys filter.; A raised creatinine may indicate kidney disease, but it can also rise with dehydration, poor blood flow to the kidneys or a blocked urinary tract. It often rises only after a large part of kidney function has been lost. Muscle mass affects it, so a thin animal can have a lower value than expected and a very muscular one a higher value. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet reads creatinine with urea, urine tests, the animal's signs and, in dogs and cats, SDMA.; KFT Creatinine, Serum Urine Routine
Culturealso: Bacterial culture, Microbial culture, C&S: Culture is a lab test that grows germs from a sample, such as urine, milk, pus or a swab. The sample is placed on special food for germs (culture media), so any bacteria or fungi in it can grow and be identified.; Culture is often paired with a sensitivity test to see which antibiotics may work against the germ found. The sample should be collected cleanly into a sterile container and, where possible, before any antibiotic is given, because medicine can stop germs from growing in the lab. 'No growth' means no germ grew in the test, which does not always mean there is no infection. Growing germs takes time, so the reporting time is confirmed when you book. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Culture & Sensitivity Fungal Culture Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)
Cystocentesisalso: Cysto, Bladder tap: Cystocentesis is a way of collecting urine straight from the bladder, in which a veterinarian passes a thin sterile needle through the belly wall into the bladder.; Because the urine does not pass through the urinary passage or touch the skin, it is the cleanest sample for urine culture and sensitivity, and germs found are more likely to come from the bladder itself. It is done mainly in dogs and cats, often with ultrasound to guide the needle, and the bladder needs to hold some urine. A little blood can enter the sample, which the vet keeps in mind when reading the result. Only a vet should do it.; Urine Routine Urine Culture & Sensitivity
Cytologyalso: Cytopathology, Smear examination: Cytology is the study of individual cells under a microscope. Cells from a lump, fluid, swab, skin or ear are spread on a slide, stained and checked for signs of infection, inflammation or cancer.; Cytology is often quick and needs only a small sample, collected with a needle or swab, or by pressing a slide onto a sore. It can show bacteria, yeast, parasites, inflammatory cells or abnormal cells. Because it looks at loose cells rather than a piece of tissue, it cannot always give a final answer, and a biopsy for histopathology may be suggested. A good result depends on a good sample. A pathologist reports the findings, and your vet reads them with the animal's signs and history.; FNAC Ear Swab Cytology Skin Impression Smear Cytology

D

D-dimeralso: D dimer: D-dimer is a small piece of protein released into the blood when the body breaks down a blood clot.; A raised D-dimer shows that clots have been forming and breaking down somewhere in the body. It may be seen with clots in blood vessels, DIC (a serious state in which clotting runs out of control), internal bleeding, recent surgery or severe illness, so a high result is not specific. A normal result can make a major clot less likely. The lab lists this test for dogs and cats using citrate plasma, and a vet interprets it with other clotting tests and the animal's signs.; Platelet Count D-Dimer Coagulation Profile (PT, APTT & Fibrinogen)
DLC (Differential Leucocyte Count)also: Differential count, Differential white cell count, WBC differential: A DLC (differential leucocyte count) shows how the white blood cells are split among the five main types: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils.; Each type has a different job, so the pattern gives clues. Many neutrophils, especially young band forms, may point to inflammation or bacterial infection; extra eosinophils may point to parasites or allergy; high neutrophils with low lymphocytes and eosinophils often go with stress. A report may show each type as a share of the total and as an absolute count, and the absolute count is usually more useful. A vet reads the pattern with the total count and the animal's signs.; AEC DLC Leucocyte Count (TLC & DLC)

E

EDTA tubealso: Purple top tube, Lavender top tube, EDTA vial: An EDTA tube is a blood collection tube, usually with a purple (lavender) cap, that contains EDTA, a chemical that stops blood from clotting and keeps the blood cells in good shape for counting.; EDTA tubes are used for the CBC, blood smears, blood parasite tests, blood grouping and many PCR tests on blood. Fill the tube up to the marked line and gently turn it upside down several times to mix; do not shake it. EDTA blood is not used for calcium, magnesium, potassium or alkaline phosphatase, because EDTA changes those results. Cap colours can differ between brands, so go by the label. The lab confirms the right tube for each test when you book.; CBC Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear)Reticulocyte Count
ELISAalso: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, EIA: ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) is a lab test that uses a colour change to detect antibodies or antigens in a sample. Depending on the kit, it can show whether an animal has met a germ or has the germ now.; In an ELISA, the sample is added to small wells coated with a target substance. If what is being looked for is present, a series of steps makes the well change colour, and the strength of the colour is measured. ELISA can test many samples at once, so it is often used to screen herds of cows and buffaloes. It is also used for some hormones and toxins, such as progesterone or aflatoxin in milk. The lab confirms the method when you book. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Distemper / Parvo ELISA Test (Combo)IBR (BoHV-1) Antibody ELISA Milk Progesterone ELISA
EPG (eggs per gram)also: Eggs per gram, Faecal egg count, FEC, Worm egg count: EPG (eggs per gram) is the number of worm eggs counted in one gram of dung or stool. It gives an estimate of how heavily an animal, or a group of animals, is shedding worm eggs.; EPG is mostly used in cows and buffaloes, often with a counting-slide method such as the McMaster technique. A higher count usually means more egg-laying worms. It does not always match the number of worms, because some worms lay few eggs and young worms lay none. Counts before and after deworming can show whether a treatment worked on the farm. A vet reads the result with the animals' signs, age and history.; Worm egg count Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)Coccidia Oocyst Count (OPG)
ESRalso: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Sed rate: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is how fast red blood cells sink to the bottom of an upright tube of blood in a set time.; Red cells settle faster when there is inflammation, because certain blood proteins make them stick together. A raised ESR is a general sign that something may be wrong, but it does not point to any one disease. Anaemia can also speed it up, and usual values differ widely between species. The lab includes ESR in the hemogram, and a vet reads it with the CBC and the animal's signs.; Hemogram (CBC + ESR)ESR
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride)also: Na/K/Cl, Serum electrolytes: Electrolytes are salts in the blood, such as sodium, potassium and chloride, that carry an electrical charge and control water balance, nerve signals, muscle work and the heartbeat.; They can change with vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, kidney disease and hormone problems. For example, Addison's disease in dogs often gives low sodium and high potassium, a blocked bladder in a male cat can cause dangerously high potassium, and in cows a displaced abomasum (the fourth stomach) can cause low chloride and low potassium. Samples should reach the lab promptly and should not contain burst red cells. A vet interprets the results with the animal's signs.; Electrolytes, Serum (Na, K & Cl)Potassium Sodium, Serum
Eosinophilalso: Eosinophils, Eos: An eosinophil is a white blood cell that helps the body fight parasites such as worms and mites and takes part in allergic reactions.; A high eosinophil count may be seen with worms, liver fluke, mites, flea or other allergies, and some skin, gut or lung diseases. A low count is common with stress and usually means little on its own. Eosinophils are counted in the DLC or as an absolute eosinophil count (AEC). Not every animal with parasites has raised eosinophils, so faecal or skin tests may still be needed, and a vet reads the result with the animal's signs.; AEC DLC Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)

F

FNACalso: Fine needle aspiration cytology, FNA cytology, Needle aspirate: FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) is a test in which a vet uses a thin needle to collect cells from a lump, swelling or organ. The cells are spread on slides, stained and examined under a microscope.; It is often used to check skin lumps, swollen lymph nodes and some internal organs, and it is usually done without surgery. FNAC can help tell whether a lump looks like infection, inflammation, a cyst, a harmless growth or cancer. Some lumps do not release cells easily, or the needle may miss the important part. The report may then say the sample is not enough for a diagnosis, or suggest a biopsy. A pathologist reports the findings, and your vet reads them with the animal's signs and history.; Histopathology / Biopsy FNAC
Faecal flotationalso: Fecal flotation, Faecal float, Flotation test: Faecal flotation is a lab test for worm eggs and coccidia oocysts in dung or stool. The sample is mixed with a special heavy liquid so the eggs and oocysts float to the top. They are then picked up on a glass slide and identified under a microscope.; It is a common test for eggs of roundworms, hookworms and whipworms, and for coccidia, in dogs, cats, cows and buffaloes. Some parasites are not found well this way: fluke eggs need a sedimentation test, lungworm larvae need the Baermann test, and Giardia may need a special test. Worms shed eggs on and off, and young worms do not lay eggs yet, so one negative result does not always rule out worms. A fresh sample gives the most reliable result. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Stool Routine Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)Faecal Sedimentation Test (Fluke Eggs)
Faecal samplealso: Stool sample, Dung sample, Fecal sample: A faecal sample is a small amount of fresh stool or dung collected for tests that look for worm eggs, single-celled parasites, hidden blood, bacteria or viruses.; Collect it soon after the animal passes it, or the vet may take it from the rectum, and keep out soil, grass and litter. Use a clean, leak-proof, labelled container and keep it cool, not frozen, unless the lab says otherwise. Some parasites pass eggs only now and then, so one negative sample does not always rule them out and the vet may ask for repeat samples. Some gut infections can pass to people, so wear gloves, wash your hands well and see a doctor if you feel unwell.; Stool Routine Worm egg count Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)
False positive and false negativealso: False-positive result, False-negative result: A false positive is a test result that says a disease or germ is present when it is not. A false negative says it is absent when it is actually present. No lab test is perfect, so both can happen.; False negatives can happen when a test is done too early, when a germ is shed only now and then, or when the sample is poor or old. False positives can happen after recent vaccination, when young animals carry antibodies from their mother, or when a test reacts to a related germ. This is why vets may repeat a test or use a second test to confirm, and always read results with the animal's signs and history. Tell your vet about recent vaccines and medicines before testing.; Canine Parvo Virus Ag (Rapid Test)FIV Antibody (Rapid Test)
Fasting samplealso: Fasting blood sample, Empty stomach sample: A fasting sample is a blood sample taken after the animal has had no food for a set time, as advised by the vet or the lab.; A recent meal can raise blood sugar and blood fats and make serum milky, which can disturb many test results, so fasting gives a clearer picture. Water is usually allowed unless the vet says otherwise. Very young, sick or diabetic animals should not be kept without food unless the vet advises it. For cows and buffaloes, the vet may instead ask for the sample at a set time in relation to feeding. Some tests for dogs and cats, such as bile acids, compare a fasting sample with one taken after a meal.; Lipid Profile FBS Bile Acids (Fasting & Post-prandial)
Fibrinogenalso: Plasma fibrinogen, Factor I: Fibrinogen is a protein made by the liver that the body turns into fibrin, the threads that hold a blood clot together.; Fibrinogen also rises with inflammation, so in cows and buffaloes plasma fibrinogen is commonly used as a sign of infection or inflammation. A low level may be seen with severe liver disease or when clotting proteins are being used up quickly in serious illness. It is measured in plasma and, for dogs and cats, is often tested with PT and APTT in a coagulation profile. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and other tests.; Plasma Fibrinogen Coagulation Profile (PT, APTT & Fibrinogen)
Fine needle aspirate (FNA)also: FNA, Fine needle aspiration, Needle aspirate: A fine needle aspirate (FNA) is a sample of cells drawn out of a lump, swelling, lymph node or organ through a thin needle and spread on glass slides to be examined under a microscope.; A vet takes the FNA; it is usually quick and does not need surgery. The stained slides are examined under a microscope, which is called cytology (FNAC). It can show whether a lump looks like inflammation, infection, a fatty lump or possibly cancer. Sometimes the needle does not collect enough cells or the answer is unclear, so the vet may advise a biopsy. Keep the slides away from formalin and its fumes, which spoil them.; Histopathology / Biopsy FNAC
Fluoride tubealso: Grey top tube, Fluoride oxalate tube, Fluoride vial: A fluoride tube is a blood tube, usually with a grey cap, that contains sodium fluoride, which stops blood cells from using up sugar so the glucose result stays true while the sample travels to the lab.; Without fluoride, blood cells keep using glucose inside the tube, so the result drops the longer the sample waits. Fluoride tubes usually also contain a chemical such as oxalate that stops clotting, so the sample gives plasma. They are used for blood glucose tests and blood lactate. Fluoride upsets many other tests, so those need a separate tube. Fill the tube to the line and mix it gently.; RBS FBS Blood Lactate
Fructosaminealso: Glycated serum protein, Glycated protein: Fructosamine is formed when glucose sticks to proteins in the blood; it reflects the average blood sugar over the past few weeks rather than at one moment.; It is used in dogs and cats to help confirm diabetes and to follow how well blood sugar has been controlled over time. It is especially helpful in cats, whose blood sugar can rise sharply from the stress of a clinic visit. Low blood protein can make fructosamine read low. The lab lists this test for dogs and cats, and a vet reads it with glucose results, urine tests and the animal's signs.; Fructosamine RBS HbA1c

G

GGTalso: GGTP, Gamma-glutamyl transferase, Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase: GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) is an enzyme found mostly in the cells lining the bile ducts; a raised blood level can point to a bile flow problem or liver disease.; In cows and buffaloes, GGT is a useful liver test and can rise with liver damage such as that caused by liver fluke. Colostrum is very rich in GGT, so a newborn calf that has drunk colostrum normally has a high blood GGT for a short time. In dogs and cats it is read together with ALP and bilirubin. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets GGT with the animal's signs and other results.; LFT ALP GGTP
Globulinalso: GLOB, Serum globulin, Total globulin: Globulin is the name for a group of blood proteins that includes antibodies and other proteins involved in immunity and inflammation.; Globulin is usually worked out as total protein minus albumin. A high level may be seen with long-lasting infection or inflammation, such as ehrlichiosis in dogs or FIP in cats, and with some cancers. A low level may be seen in calves that did not absorb enough colostrum antibodies, and with blood or protein loss. The albumin to globulin (A:G) ratio and, for dogs and cats, serum protein electrophoresis give more detail. A vet reads globulin with the other results and the animal's signs.; Globulin Protein Total, Albumin, Globulin SPEP
Glucosealso: Blood sugar, Blood glucose, RBS, FBS, PPBS: Glucose is the main sugar in the blood and the body's main source of energy; a blood glucose test measures how much is present at the moment the sample is taken.; A high glucose may indicate diabetes, but stress can also raise it, especially in cats, and so can a recent meal. A low glucose may be seen with severe infection, liver disease, some tumours, or in a young or tiny pet that has not eaten, and in cows and buffaloes it can be low with ketosis. Blood cells use up glucose in the tube, so a fluoride tube is used. A vet reads glucose with urine tests and the animal's signs, and in dogs and cats may add a fructosamine test.; Fructosamine RBS FBS
Gram stainalso: Gram staining, Gram's stain: A Gram stain is a quick dye test that sorts bacteria into two main groups under the microscope. Gram-positive bacteria stain purple, Gram-negative bacteria stain pink or red, and the stain also shows whether they are round or rod-shaped.; Gram staining is a common early step when bacteria are grown in culture, and it can also be done on smears of pus, fluid or other samples. It gives the vet an early clue about the type of germ while the full culture and sensitivity result is awaited. It does not name the exact germ or show which antibiotics will work, and some germs do not stain well this way. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Culture & Sensitivity Abscess / Pus Culture & Sensitivity Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)

H

Haemoglobinalso: Hb, Hgb, Hemoglobin: Haemoglobin (Hb) is the iron-containing red protein inside red blood cells that picks up oxygen in the lungs and carries it around the body.; Haemoglobin is measured in the CBC from EDTA blood. A low value may indicate anaemia, and a high value usually goes with dehydration. It is read together with the red cell count, PCV and red cell indices to understand the type of anaemia. A milky (lipaemic) sample or many Heinz bodies can make an analyser give a falsely high value. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets the result with the animal's signs.; CBC Hemoglobin & Hematocrit (Hb & PCV)Hb
Haptoglobinalso: Hp: Haptoglobin is a protein made by the liver that rises in the blood during inflammation or infection. It is one of the most useful inflammation markers in cows and buffaloes, and it is also tested in dogs.; Healthy cows and buffaloes have very little haptoglobin, so a clear rise may indicate a problem such as infection of the uterus after calving, udder infection or pneumonia. It does not show which disease is present. Haptoglobin also binds haemoglobin, the red pigment released from burst red blood cells, so it can fall when red cells are destroyed inside the body. In dogs, steroid hormones can raise it. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Plasma Fibrinogen Haptoglobin SAA
HbA1calso: Glycated haemoglobin, Glycosylated haemoglobin, A1c: HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) is haemoglobin inside red blood cells that has glucose attached to it; it reflects the average blood sugar over a longer period than fructosamine does.; Because HbA1c builds up over the life of the red cells, anaemia or recent blood loss can make it read falsely low. In dogs and cats, fructosamine is the more commonly used of the two, and the vet decides which test suits the animal. HbA1c is measured on whole blood in an EDTA tube. The lab lists it for dogs and cats, and a vet reads it with glucose results and the animal's signs.; Fructosamine FBS HbA1c
Heparin tubealso: Green top tube, Lithium heparin tube: A heparin tube is a blood tube, usually with a green cap, that contains heparin, a substance that stops blood from clotting, so the sample gives plasma for some chemistry tests.; Heparin plasma can be used for some chemistry tests, such as blood lactate and cholinesterase, when the lab asks for it. Heparin is not used for blood counts or smears, because it can make cells clump and stain poorly. It is also avoided for PCR tests, because heparin can block the reaction. Mix the tube gently after filling, and always use the tube the lab names for each test.; Blood Lactate Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase)
Histopathologyalso: Histopath, HPE (histopathological examination), Tissue biopsy examination: Histopathology is the study of a piece of tissue under a microscope. The tissue, taken by biopsy or after death, is preserved, cut into very thin slices, stained and examined by a pathologist.; It shows how cells are arranged within the tissue. This means it can often name the type of disease and tell whether a growth is harmless or cancer. It can also show whether a removed lump was fully taken out (the margins). Samples are usually placed in formalin, a preserving liquid, soon after collection. Processing takes time, and the lab confirms the container, sample needs and reporting time when you book. Your vet reads the report with the animal's signs and history.; Histopathology / Biopsy FNAC

I

Impression smearalso: Impression cytology, Touch imprint, Tape impression: An impression smear is made by gently pressing a clean glass slide onto a sore, a moist patch of skin or the cut surface of a tissue, so that cells stick to the slide for staining and examination.; It is a quick way to look for bacteria, yeast, inflammatory cells or abnormal cells in skin and ear problems, and it can be made from a freshly cut lump before the lump goes into formalin. Clear sticky tape pressed onto the skin, called a tape impression, works in a similar way. It shows only the cells on the surface, so the vet may also need a skin scraping, an aspirate, a culture or a biopsy.; FNAC Ear Swab Cytology Skin Impression Smear Cytology

K

Ketones and BHBalso: BHB, BHBA, Beta-hydroxybutyrate, Ketone bodies: Ketones are substances the body makes from fat when it is short of energy from sugar; BHB (beta-hydroxybutyrate) is the main ketone in the blood and the one most often measured.; In dairy cows and buffaloes, a raised BHB in the weeks around calving may indicate ketosis, an energy-shortage problem that can be present even when the animal looks healthy. In dogs and cats with diabetes, high ketones can mean diabetic ketoacidosis, an emergency. Ketones can be checked in blood, milk or urine; urine dipsticks mainly detect a different ketone, so they can miss a rise in BHB. A vet interprets the result with the animal's signs and other tests.; BHB Urine Routine Milk BHB (Ketosis) Test
Ketosisalso: Acetonaemia, Acetonemia: Ketosis is a common energy disorder of dairy cows and buffaloes, mostly in the first weeks after calving, when the body burns fat too fast for energy. Ketone bodies such as BHB (beta-hydroxybutyrate) then build up in blood, milk and urine.; Affected animals may eat less, especially grain feed, give less milk, lose weight and sometimes have a sweet smell on the breath or show odd behaviour. Many cases are subclinical, with raised BHB but no visible signs. Blood BHB is the main lab test, and milk BHB or urine ketone checks can help screen a herd. In dogs and cats, ketones are more often linked to diabetes that is not under control. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; BHB NEFA Milk BHB (Ketosis) Test

L

LDHalso: Lactate dehydrogenase, LD, Lactic dehydrogenase: LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) is an enzyme found in almost every tissue of the body, including muscle, liver and red blood cells. A raised level may indicate that cells are being damaged somewhere, but it does not show where.; Because LDH comes from so many tissues, it is rarely useful on its own. Vets read it with more specific tests, such as liver enzymes for the liver or CK for muscle. Red blood cells contain a lot of LDH, so a sample in which red cells have burst (a haemolysed sample) can show a falsely high result. Careful sample collection helps avoid this. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; LFT CPK LDH
Lactatealso: Blood lactate, Lactic acid, L-lactate: Lactate is a substance cells make when they break down sugar for energy, and they make much more of it when they do not get enough oxygen. A raised blood lactate level may indicate shock, poor blood flow, severe infection or another serious illness.; Vets mostly use lactate in very sick or emergency patients to judge how serious the problem is. They may repeat it to see whether the animal is responding to care. Hard exercise, fits (seizures), struggling during sampling and severe dehydration can also raise it. Lactate keeps rising in a blood sample after it is taken, so the sample must be handled quickly in the tube the lab advises. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Blood Lactate Bicarbonate (Total CO2)
Leucocytosis and leucopeniaalso: Leukocytosis, Leukopenia, High white cell count, Low white cell count: Leucocytosis means the white blood cell count is higher than normal, and leucopenia means it is lower than normal.; Leucocytosis may be seen with bacterial infection, inflammation, tissue damage, stress or excitement, and some blood cancers. Leucopenia may be seen with some viral infections, such as parvovirus in dogs and panleukopenia in cats, with severe infections that use up white cells, or with bone marrow problems. What counts as normal is set by the species reference range on the report. The DLC shows which type of white cell has changed, and a vet reads it with the animal's signs.; CBC TLC Leucocyte Count (TLC & DLC)
Lipasealso: LIPA, Serum lipase, Total lipase: Lipase is an enzyme made mainly by the pancreas that breaks down fats in food so the body can absorb them.; A raised total lipase may indicate pancreatitis, but lipase can also rise with kidney disease, some medicines and other illnesses, so it is not specific. Species-specific pancreatic lipase tests (cPL for dogs, fPL for cats) measure lipase made only by the pancreas and are more specific for pancreatitis. A normal result does not always rule pancreatitis out. The lab lists the lipase test for dogs and cats, and a vet reads it with the animal's signs, other blood tests and ultrasound.; Lipase cPL fPL
Lymphocytealso: Lymphocytes, Lymphs: A lymphocyte is a white blood cell of the immune system; lymphocytes make antibodies and help the body fight viruses and other germs.; In adult cows and buffaloes, lymphocytes are usually the most common white blood cells, while in dogs and cats neutrophils usually are. A low lymphocyte count is often due to stress or illness and may also be seen with some viral infections. A high count may be seen with fear or excitement in cats, some long-lasting infections and some blood cancers. A vet reads the result together with the other white cells and the animal's signs.; CBC DLC

M

MAT (Microscopic Agglutination Test)also: Microscopic agglutination test, Leptospira MAT: The MAT (microscopic agglutination test) is the main reference antibody test for leptospirosis. The animal's serum is mixed with live Leptospira bacteria of different types, and the lab checks under a microscope whether antibodies make them clump.; The result is given as a titre for each type (serovar) of Leptospira tested. One result can be hard to read, because past infection and vaccination also produce titres. The vet may test a second sample taken later to look for a rise. It is used in dogs, cows and buffaloes. Leptospirosis can pass to people through urine, so wear gloves when handling sick animals or their urine, wash hands well and see a doctor if unwell. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Lepto MAT Leptospira IgM / IgG ELISA Leptospira RT-PCR
MBRTalso: Methylene blue reduction test, Dye reduction test: MBRT (methylene blue reduction test) is a simple milk hygiene test in which a blue dye is added to milk and kept warm. Bacteria in the milk use up oxygen and make the colour fade, so the faster it fades, the more bacteria there are.; MBRT gives an indirect estimate of how many bacteria are in raw milk and is used to grade milk quality at collection centres and dairies. It is simpler than a plate count but less exact, and it does not name the bacteria. The resazurin test works in a similar way. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; MBRT Milk Resazurin Reduction Test TBC
MCV, MCH and MCHCalso: Red cell indices, RBC indices, Mean corpuscular volume, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin: MCV, MCH and MCHC are red cell indices: MCV is the average size of the red blood cells, MCH is the average amount of haemoglobin in each cell and MCHC is how concentrated the haemoglobin is inside the cells.; Vets use these values to sort anaemia into types. Large red cells with a lower MCHC often mean many young cells are being released, a sign the bone marrow is responding. Small, pale red cells may point to iron shortage, often from long-term blood loss such as heavy worm, flea or tick burdens. Some dog breeds, such as the Akita and Shiba Inu, normally have small red cells. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet reads these values with the rest of the CBC.; CBC Reticulocyte Count RBC indices
Magnesiumalso: Mg, Serum magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral needed for nerves and muscles to work normally and for many chemical processes in the body.; In cows and buffaloes, low blood magnesium can cause grass tetany, a serious condition with trembling, staggering and fits, and it can make milk fever more likely. In dogs and cats, low levels may be seen with long-term vomiting or diarrhoea or some kidney problems, and high levels with kidney failure. Magnesium is often tested with calcium and phosphorus in a mineral profile, and EDTA blood cannot be used. A vet interprets the result with the animal's signs.; Calcium Total Magnesium, Serum Mineral Profile (Calcium, Phosphorus & Magnesium)
Midstream urinealso: Free-catch urine, Voided urine sample: A midstream urine sample is urine caught in a clean container partway through urination, after the first part of the flow has been let go.; The first part of the flow washes out cells and germs from the outer urinary passage, so the middle part gives a cleaner sample. Midstream urine suits a routine urine test and urine protein checks. For urine culture, a sample taken straight from the bladder by a vet (cystocentesis) or by catheter is often preferred, because free-caught urine can pick up germs from the skin. Use a clean, labelled container, wear gloves and bring the sample to the lab fresh.; Urine Routine UPC Urine Culture & Sensitivity
Milk adulterationalso: Adulterated milk, Doodh mein milavat (Hindi): Milk adulteration means adding something to milk that should not be there, or taking out something that should be there, such as fat. Common adulterants include water, starch, sugar, salt, urea, detergent and chemicals used to hide spoilage.; Adulteration lowers the value of milk, and some added chemicals can harm health. Simple chemical tests can detect many common adulterants. A screening panel typically checks for several at once, such as added water, starch, urea, detergent, neutralisers, hydrogen peroxide and formalin. The exact list is confirmed when you book. A negative screen covers only the substances tested. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Milk Adulteration Screening Panel Milk Urea (Adulteration) Test Milk Added Water (Freezing Point) Test
Milk fatalso: Butterfat, Fat content, Milk fat percentage: Milk fat is the creamy, fatty part of milk that gives it richness and is used to make cream, butter and ghee. Fat content is one of the main measures of milk quality and is commonly used to grade milk.; Buffalo milk usually has more fat than cow milk. Fat content also changes with breed, feeding, stage of lactation and the part of the milking, as the last milk drawn is richer in fat. Because fat rises to the top, milk must be mixed well before a sample is taken. Fat is commonly measured by the Gerber method or with a milk analyser, and the lab confirms the method when you book. If fat drops suddenly in a herd, ask your vet whether a health problem may be the cause. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Milk Composition (Fat, SNF, Protein & Lactose)Milk Fat (Gerber Method)
Milk fever (hypocalcaemia)also: Parturient paresis, Parturient hypocalcaemia, Hypocalcemia: Milk fever is a sudden drop in blood calcium in cows and buffaloes, usually around calving when milk production starts. Despite the name, there is usually no fever, and body temperature is often normal or low.; Signs may include restlessness, shivering, cold ears and wobbly walking, then lying down unable to rise, often with the head turned towards the flank. It is an emergency: call your vet at once and do not wait for lab results. Blood tests for calcium, often with phosphorus and magnesium, can help confirm low calcium and check related problems. Some animals have low calcium without clear signs (subclinical hypocalcaemia). A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Calcium Total Ionised Calcium Mineral Profile (Calcium, Phosphorus & Magnesium)
Monocytealso: Monocytes, Monos: A monocyte is a large white blood cell that moves from the blood into the tissues, where it becomes a macrophage that cleans up germs, dead cells and debris.; A raised monocyte count may be seen with long-lasting (chronic) inflammation or infection, tissue damage and, in dogs, stress. A low count usually has little meaning on its own. Monocytes are counted as part of the DLC. A vet reads the monocyte count together with the other white cells, the total count and the animal's signs.; CBC DLC
Multiplex PCR panelalso: PCR panel, Multiplex PCR, Syndromic PCR panel: A multiplex PCR panel is a PCR test that looks for several germs at once in a single sample. It is useful when many different germs can cause the same signs, such as cough, diarrhoea or tick fever.; Panels are commonly used for kennel cough in dogs, cat flu, diarrhoea in dogs, cats and calves, and tick fever in dogs, cows and buffaloes. Each panel covers a set list of germs, and the exact list is confirmed when you book. A germ that is not on the panel will not be found, and finding a germ does not always mean it is the main cause of the illness. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Respiratory Disease RT-PCR Panel (Kennel Cough)Feline Respiratory Disease RT-PCR Panel (Cat Flu)Bovine Tick Fever RT-PCR Panel (Theileria, Babesia & Anaplasma)

N

NEFAalso: Non-esterified fatty acids, Free fatty acids, FFA: NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids) are fats released from body fat stores into the blood when an animal is not getting enough energy from its feed.; In dairy cows and buffaloes close to calving, raised NEFA shows the animal is breaking down body fat, a sign of negative energy balance, and may point to a higher risk of ketosis, fatty liver and other problems after calving. Stress, handling and the time since feeding can change the result, so the vet decides when to sample, and results are often read for a group of animals. The lab lists NEFA for cows and buffaloes, and a vet reads it with BHB and the herd's history.; BHB NEFA Dairy Cow Metabolic Profile
NT-proBNPalso: proBNP, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide: NT-proBNP is a substance released by the heart muscle when the heart walls are stretched or under strain. A raised level may indicate heart disease, and dogs and cats each have their own species-specific test.; In cats, it is commonly used to help look for hidden heart muscle disease, which may cause no signs until it is advanced. In dogs and cats with breathing trouble, it can help the vet judge whether the heart may be the cause. Kidney disease can also raise NT-proBNP. It does not replace a heart examination, X-ray or heart ultrasound. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Troponin-I Canine NT-proBNP Feline NT-proBNP
Negative energy balancealso: NEB, Energy deficit: Negative energy balance means an animal uses more energy than it gets from its feed. It is common in dairy cows and buffaloes around calving and in early lactation, when milk production rises faster than appetite.; To fill the gap, the body breaks down its fat stores and releases NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids) into the blood. If this goes too far, the liver can be overloaded, leading to ketosis or fatty liver, and milk yield and fertility may suffer. NEFA tests before calving and BHB tests after calving can help vets judge how well a herd is coping. Ask your vet or a nutrition adviser about feeding plans. A vet reads the results with the animals' signs and history.; BHB NEFA Dairy Cow Metabolic Profile
Neutrophilalso: Neutrophils, Polymorphs, Polys, Segmented neutrophils: A neutrophil is a white blood cell that is first to rush to sites of infection and inflammation, where it swallows and kills bacteria; it is the most common white cell in dogs and cats.; A high neutrophil count may indicate bacterial infection, inflammation, tissue damage or stress. A low count may be seen with some viral infections, such as parvovirus in dogs and panleukopenia in cats, with severe infection that uses them up, or with bone marrow problems. Young neutrophils (band forms) in the blood, called a left shift, suggest a strong demand for them. In adult cows and buffaloes, lymphocytes usually outnumber neutrophils, so species reference ranges matter. A vet reads the count with the full CBC and the animal's signs.; CBC DLC
Notifiable diseasealso: Reportable disease, Scheduled disease: A notifiable disease is an animal disease that, by law, must be reported to the government's animal health authorities. In India this includes diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and lumpy skin disease.; These diseases can spread fast or cause major losses, so reporting helps the authorities confirm cases and decide on control steps. Owners should tell their veterinarian or the animal husbandry department if they suspect one. Keep sick animals apart from others while you wait for advice. A lab test can help a vet investigate, but it does not replace official reporting or testing. Your vet can tell you which diseases are on the current list.; Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) RT-PCR FMD test

O

Occult bloodalso: Hidden blood, Faecal occult blood, FOBT: Occult blood is blood in stool or urine that is too little to be seen with the eye. It is found with a chemical test and may indicate bleeding somewhere in the gut or urinary tract.; In stool, it can help the vet look for hidden bleeding from ulcers, worms such as hookworms, inflammation or growths in the gut. Meat in the diet can give a positive result in some stool tests, so follow your vet's instructions before collecting the sample. In urine, the dipstick blood test can react to red blood cells, free haemoglobin or muscle pigment, and the microscope helps tell these apart. A positive result shows bleeding may be present, not its cause. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Routine Stool Routine Stool Occult Blood
Oocystalso: Oocysts, OPG (oocysts per gram): An oocyst is the tiny egg-like stage of some single-celled parasites, such as coccidia, Cryptosporidium and Toxoplasma, that is passed out in dung or stool. Finding oocysts in a faecal test shows that the animal is passing these parasites.; Coccidia often cause diarrhoea in calves, puppies and kittens, and their oocysts can be counted per gram of faeces (OPG). Cryptosporidium oocysts are very small and are often looked for with a special stain or an antigen test. Cryptosporidium and Toxoplasma can infect people, so wear gloves when handling dung or cat litter, wash hands well and see a doctor if unwell. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Cryptosporidium Faecal Antigen (Rapid Test)Faecal Flotation Test (Worm Eggs & Oocysts)Coccidia Oocyst Count (OPG)

P

PCRalso: Polymerase chain reaction, Real-time PCR, qPCR, Molecular test: PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a lab test that finds the genetic material (DNA) of a germ. It copies a tiny piece of that DNA over and over until there is enough to detect, so it can show whether the germ is in the sample.; PCR can find very small amounts of a germ, often early in an infection and before antibodies appear. It is widely used for tick fever germs, viruses such as parvovirus, and many other infections in dogs, cats, cows and buffaloes. A positive PCR shows the germ's genetic material is there, but that does not always mean the germ is causing the illness. A negative result may mean the germ was simply not in that sample. PCR does not show which antibiotics will work. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Parvo RT-PCR Feline Panleukopenia (FPV) RT-PCR Theileria annulata RT-PCR
PCV (Packed Cell Volume) / Haematocritalso: PCV, HCT, Haematocrit, Hematocrit, Packed cell volume: PCV (packed cell volume), also called haematocrit, is the share of the blood's volume that is made up of red blood cells.; PCV is often measured by spinning blood in a thin glass tube and reading how much of it is packed red cells; haematocrit is the same value worked out by a blood analyser. A low PCV may indicate anaemia, and a high PCV may indicate dehydration. In dogs, excitement can raise it for a short time. Vets often read PCV with total protein to help tell blood loss from dehydration. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets it with the animal's signs.; CBC Hemoglobin & Hematocrit (Hb & PCV)PCV
PT and APTTalso: PT, APTT, Prothrombin time, Activated partial thromboplastin time: PT (prothrombin time) and APTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) are clotting tests that measure how long a plasma sample takes to form a clot after clotting chemicals are added in the lab.; Each test checks a different group of clotting proteins, so together they help show where a clotting problem lies. Long times may be seen with certain rat poisons, severe liver disease, inherited clotting disorders such as haemophilia, or serious illness that uses up clotting proteins. The tests need citrate plasma from a sodium citrate tube filled exactly to the line. The lab lists PT and APTT for dogs and cats, and a vet reads them with the platelet count and the animal's signs.; PT APTT Coagulation Profile (PT, APTT & Fibrinogen)
Passive transfer of immunityalso: Transfer of passive immunity, TPI, Colostral immunity, FPT (failure of passive transfer): Passive transfer of immunity is how a newborn calf gets antibodies from its mother's first milk (colostrum). Calves are born with very few antibodies, so this early protection is vital against infections such as calf diarrhoea and pneumonia.; If a calf does not absorb enough antibodies, this is called failure of passive transfer, and the calf is more likely to fall sick or die young. A blood test of the young calf, measuring IgG (the main antibody) or total protein, can show whether transfer was adequate. A colostrum quality test can check the colostrum itself. The vet advises when to test. Ask your vet about colostrum feeding for your herd. A vet reads the result with the calf's signs and history.; Calf Passive Transfer Test (Serum IgG / Total Protein)Colostrum Quality Test (Brix / IgG)
Phosphorusalso: P, Phosphate, Inorganic phosphorus: Phosphorus is a mineral that works with calcium to build bones and teeth and is needed by every cell to make and use energy.; High phosphorus is common in kidney disease, because the kidneys remove it, and young growing animals normally have higher levels. In buffaloes, low phosphorus is linked with red-brown urine after calving (post-parturient haemoglobinuria), and in cows low levels may be seen with poor feed intake or milk fever. Burst red cells in the sample can make it read falsely high. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet reads phosphorus with calcium and the animal's signs.; KFT Phosphorus Mineral Profile (Calcium, Phosphorus & Magnesium)
Plasmaalso: Blood plasma: Plasma is the liquid part of blood taken from a sample that was stopped from clotting by a chemical in the tube, so unlike serum it still contains the clotting proteins.; The chemical in the tube depends on the test: citrate plasma is used for clotting tests such as PT and APTT, fluoride plasma for blood glucose and heparin plasma for some chemistry tests. The tube is spun so the cells sink and the plasma can be taken from the top. Plasma looks much like serum but still holds fibrinogen, the protein that forms clots. Using the wrong tube can make a result wrong, so always use the tube type the lab asks for.; PT Plasma Fibrinogen RBS
Plateletalso: Platelets, Thrombocytes, PLT: A platelet is a tiny cell fragment in the blood; platelets stick together at a cut or damaged blood vessel to help form a clot and stop bleeding.; A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can lead to bleeding, such as small red spots on the gums or skin, nosebleeds or blood in urine or stool. A high count can follow inflammation, blood loss or iron shortage. Platelets clump easily, especially in cats or when blood is slow to collect, and clumps can make the count look falsely low, so the lab may check a smear. A vet reads the count with the animal's signs and decides whether clotting tests are also needed.; CBC BT Platelet Count
Progesteronealso: P4, Serum progesterone, Milk progesterone: Progesterone is a reproductive hormone made mainly in the ovary after an egg is released, and it keeps a pregnancy going. Blood or milk tests help vets time mating in dogs and check the breeding cycle in cows and buffaloes.; In female dogs, progesterone starts to rise around the time eggs are released. The vet may test several samples to choose the right time for mating or insemination. In cows and buffaloes, a low level at the right time after insemination may indicate that the animal is not pregnant. A high level shows active ovary tissue, but it does not confirm pregnancy on its own. The vet decides when to take samples. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Progesterone, Serum Canine Progesterone (cProgesterone)Milk Progesterone ELISA
Proteinuriaalso: Protein in urine, Urine protein: Proteinuria means protein in the urine. Healthy kidneys keep most protein in the blood, so a raised amount in urine may indicate a kidney problem. It can also come from bleeding or infection in the urinary tract, or a short-term cause such as fever.; A urine dipstick can show protein, but its reading depends on how concentrated the urine is. The UPC ratio measures protein loss more accurately, and a microalbumin test can find very small amounts. Proteinuria that is found again on repeat tests, when there is no infection or blood in the urine, may indicate kidney disease and needs a vet's attention. Hard exercise, fever and stress can cause a short-term rise. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Routine UPC Microalbuminuria (Urine Albumin)

R

RBC (Red Blood Cells)also: Red blood cells, Erythrocytes, Red cells, RBC count: Red blood cells (RBCs) are the cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body using the haemoglobin inside them; they give blood its red colour.; The RBC count on a report is the number of red cells in a set amount of blood. A low count may indicate anaemia, for example from blood loss, blood parasites or poor production in the bone marrow. A high count is most often due to dehydration. Changes in red cell shape seen on a smear give extra clues, such as Heinz bodies after onion or garlic poisoning in dogs and cats. A vet reads the RBC count with haemoglobin, PCV and the animal's signs.; CBC Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count Heinz Body Examination
RDWalso: Red cell distribution width, RDW-CV, RDW-SD: RDW (red cell distribution width) shows how much the red blood cells vary in size; a higher RDW means the cells are more mixed in size.; A high RDW may be seen when many new, larger red cells are entering the blood after blood loss or red cell breakdown, or when small cells appear because of iron shortage. RDW is worked out by a blood analyser as part of the CBC and is read together with the MCV, the blood smear and the reticulocyte count. On its own it does not point to one disease, and a vet interprets it with the other results and the animal's signs.; CBC RDW RBC indices
RT-PCRalso: Reverse transcription PCR, Reverse transcriptase PCR: RT-PCR (reverse transcription PCR) is a PCR test for germs whose genetic material is RNA instead of DNA. The RNA is first copied into DNA, which the PCR can then detect.; Many viruses carry RNA, including canine distemper virus, canine coronavirus, feline calicivirus and the feline coronavirus linked to FIP, so RT-PCR is used to look for them. Like PCR, it can find small amounts of virus, but it does not show whether an animal is immune. RNA breaks down easily, so samples must be handled carefully and reach the lab quickly, as advised when you book. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Coronavirus RT-PCR FCoV / FIP RT-PCR Feline Calicivirus (FCV) RT-PCR
Rapid test (kit test)also: Rapid kit, Lateral flow test, Point-of-care test: A rapid test is a small, ready-made kit that gives a quick result, usually shown as coloured lines or dots. It can detect a germ or antibodies to it, and it is often used for quick screening of sick animals.; Examples include kits for parvovirus in dogs, FIV and FeLV in cats, and the common causes of calf diarrhoea in cows and buffaloes. Rapid tests give a fast answer, but they can miss small amounts of a germ and can sometimes give a false positive, for example soon after some vaccines. The vet may confirm the result with ELISA, PCR or another test. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Canine Parvo Virus Ag (Rapid Test)FIV / FeLV (Combo Kit)Calf Diarrhoea Rapid Test (Rotavirus, Coronavirus, Cryptosporidium & E. coli K99)
Reference rangealso: Reference interval, Normal range, Normal values: A reference range is the range of results found in most healthy animals of the same species for a test. It is printed next to each result on a lab report so you can see whether a value is low, within range or high.; Reference ranges differ between dogs, cats, cows and buffaloes. They can also vary with age, breed, the lab and the test method, so always use the range printed on your own report. A result just outside the range is not always a problem, because some healthy animals fall outside it. A result inside the range does not always mean there is no disease. Your vet reads results together with the animal's signs, history and other tests.; CBC LFT KFT
Reticulocytealso: Retic, Reticulocyte count, Young red cells: A reticulocyte is a young red blood cell that has just been released from the bone marrow into the blood.; Counting reticulocytes shows whether the bone marrow is making new red cells in response to anaemia. A raised count suggests a regenerative anaemia (one the body is working to repair), often from blood loss or red cell breakdown, while a low count suggests the marrow is not keeping up, as can happen with long-term illness, kidney disease or marrow problems. After sudden bleeding the marrow takes some time to respond, so an early low count is not the final picture. A vet reads it with the CBC.; CBC Reticulocyte Count

S

SAA (Serum Amyloid A)also: SAA, Serum amyloid A: SAA (serum amyloid A) is a protein made by the liver that rises quickly and sharply in the blood during inflammation or infection. It falls again as the animal recovers, and it is the key marker of this kind in cats.; SAA is also used in dogs, cows and buffaloes. In cows and buffaloes it can rise with problems such as udder infection, infection of the uterus after calving, or pneumonia. Because many diseases raise SAA, it can show that inflammation is present, but not its cause. Repeating the test can help the vet see whether the animal is improving. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Haptoglobin SAA Feline SAA (Serum Amyloid A)
SCC (Somatic Cell Count)also: Somatic cell count, Milk cell count, BTSCC (bulk tank SCC): SCC (somatic cell count) is the number of body cells, mainly white blood cells, in a fixed amount of milk. A raised SCC usually means the udder is inflamed, most often because of mastitis.; SCC can be checked for each quarter, each animal or the whole bulk tank. It helps farmers and vets find subclinical mastitis, where the milk looks normal, and follow udder health over time. A high SCC is linked with lower milk yield and poorer milk quality. It can also rise a little late in lactation, long after calving, so a vet reads one result with the animal's signs and history. Milk should be collected cleanly. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Mastitis CMT CMT SCC
SDMAalso: Symmetric dimethylarginine: SDMA (symmetric dimethylarginine) is a substance released when body proteins break down; it is removed almost entirely by the kidneys, so it is used as a kidney filtering marker in dogs and cats.; SDMA is less affected by muscle mass than creatinine, which helps in thin or older pets, and it may rise earlier in long-term kidney disease. Like creatinine, it can also rise with dehydration. The vet may repeat a high result and read it with creatinine, urea and urine tests such as urine specific gravity and urine protein. The lab lists SDMA for dogs and cats, and a vet interprets it with the animal's signs and history.; KFT Creatinine, Serum SDMA
SNF (Solids-Not-Fat)also: Solids-not-fat, Milk solids-not-fat, MSNF: SNF (solids-not-fat) is everything in milk except water and fat, mainly protein, lactose (milk sugar) and minerals. Together with fat, it is one of the main measures used to judge milk quality.; Milk collection centres and dairy cooperatives in India commonly use fat and SNF to grade milk and work out payment. SNF can fall when water is added to milk, and it also changes with breed, feeding, stage of lactation (time since calving) and udder health. It is usually estimated from a lactometer reading or with a milk analyser, and the lab confirms the method when you book. If a change may be linked to an animal's health, ask your vet. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; Milk Composition (Fat, SNF, Protein & Lactose)Milk Density (Lactometer)Milk Added Water (Freezing Point) Test
Sensitivity (antibiogram)also: Antibiogram, ABST, Antibiotic sensitivity test, Antimicrobial susceptibility test: A sensitivity test, or antibiogram, checks which antibiotics can stop the growth of bacteria grown from a sample in culture. Each antibiotic tested is usually reported as sensitive, intermediate or resistant.; The test helps the vet choose a medicine that is likely to work and avoid ones the germ resists, which also helps slow the spread of antibiotic resistance. A lab result does not always match what happens inside the body, so the vet decides on treatment. Do not start or change antibiotics on your own based on the report. This kind of sensitivity is different from the sensitivity of a test, which describes how well a test picks up true cases of a disease.; Urine Culture & Sensitivity Ear Swab Culture & Sensitivity Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)
Serologyalso: Serological test, Antibody test: Serology is the testing of serum, the clear liquid part of blood, usually to look for antibodies against germs. It can show whether an animal's immune system has met a germ, through infection or vaccination.; Common serology tests include ELISA, agglutination tests (in which antibodies make tiny particles clump together) and many rapid antibody kits. Serology is widely used to screen herds of cows and buffaloes and to check dogs and cats for exposure to certain germs. Antibodies take time to appear and can last long after recovery, so the vet may compare two samples taken some time apart. A positive result does not always mean active disease. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs, history and vaccination record.; FIV Antibody (Rapid Test)Neospora caninum Antibody (ELISA)IBR (BoHV-1) Antibody ELISA
Serumalso: Blood serum: Serum is the clear, pale yellow liquid part of blood that is left after a blood sample has clotted and the clot has been removed.; Blood for serum goes into a plain or gel tube and is left to clot, then spun so the serum can be taken off. Most chemistry, hormone and antibody tests, such as liver and kidney function tests, use serum. Serum differs from plasma because its clotting proteins were used up in the clot. Red serum (from burst red cells) or milky serum (from fat after a meal) can change some results, so the lab may ask for a fresh sample. Handle the tube gently and do not shake it.; LFT KFT Brucellosis
Sodium citrate tubealso: Citrate tube, Light blue top tube, Blue top tube: A sodium citrate tube is a blood tube, usually with a light blue cap, that holds a set amount of liquid citrate to stop clotting; it is the tube used for clotting tests such as PT and APTT.; The tube must be filled exactly to the line, because these tests depend on the right mix of blood and citrate; an under-filled tube can give a falsely long clotting time. Mix it gently straight after filling. A sample with small clots in it cannot be used. Citrate plasma is used for PT, APTT, fibrinogen and D-dimer tests. Clotting samples need quick handling, so the lab tells you how to collect and send them when you book.; PT APTT D-Dimer
Subclinical diseasealso: Subclinical infection, Silent infection, Inapparent infection: A subclinical disease is an infection or illness that is present but causes no signs that an owner or vet can see. It is usually found only through lab tests, or later when signs appear.; Examples include subclinical mastitis and subclinical ketosis in dairy cows and buffaloes, and early kidney disease in older dogs and cats. Subclinical problems can still lower milk yield, growth or fertility, can spread infection to other animals, and can later become clinical, meaning signs appear. Routine screening tests can help find them early. A vet reads the results with the animal's signs, history and other tests.; BHB SDMA SCC
Subclinical mastitisalso: SCM, Hidden mastitis: Subclinical mastitis is udder inflammation, usually caused by infection, that shows no visible signs: the milk and udder look normal. It is found with tests such as the CMT, somatic cell count or milk culture.; In many herds it is far more common than visible mastitis, and it quietly lowers milk yield and quality. Some germs that cause it spread from animal to animal at milking time, and some cases later turn into clinical mastitis. Regular CMT or SCC checks can help find affected quarters, and milk culture can identify the germ. Milk for culture should be collected cleanly and before any antibiotic is given. Your vet reads the results with the animal's history and decides what to do.; CMT SCC Milk Culture & Sensitivity (Mastitis)
Swabalso: Sterile swab, Cotton swab: A swab is a small stick with a soft cotton or synthetic tip that is rubbed on a body surface or discharge to collect germs or cells for testing.; Swabs are taken from places such as the ear, nose, eye, throat, wound, vagina or uterus. For culture and sensitivity, a sterile swab goes straight back into its tube, often with a transport gel that keeps germs alive on the way to the lab. For PCR, the lab may ask for a dry swab or a special liquid. Where the vet agrees, the swab is taken before antibiotics are started. Do not touch the tip, and label the tube with the animal and the site.; Vaginal Swab Culture & Sensitivity Ear Swab Culture & Sensitivity Nasal Swab Culture & Sensitivity

T

T4 and free T4also: Thyroxine, Total T4, TT4, Free thyroxine, FT4: T4 (thyroxine) is the main hormone made by the thyroid gland in the neck, and it controls how fast the body uses energy. Total T4 measures all the T4 in blood, while free T4 measures the small active part not bound to protein.; In dogs, a low T4 may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Other illnesses and some medicines can also lower T4, so vets often add free T4 and TSH. In cats, a high T4 may indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), which is common in older cats. Free T4 can help when total T4 is unclear, but it should be read together with total T4. One result alone is not a diagnosis. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Thyroid Profile (T3, T4 & TSH)FT4 T4, Total
TBC (Total Bacterial Count)also: Total bacterial count, Standard plate count, SPC, Total plate count, TPC: TBC (total bacterial count) is the number of bacteria that grow from a fixed amount of milk in a lab plate test. It helps show how clean the milking, utensils and storage have been, and how well the milk has been cooled.; A high TBC usually points to dirty udders, utensils or equipment, slow cooling or long storage, and sometimes to mastitis. Milk with a high count spoils sooner. Bacteria keep growing in a warm sample, so milk for TBC should be collected in a sterile bottle, kept chilled and sent to the lab quickly. The result is reported as colony-forming units (CFU), the number of bacterial colonies that grow. Results are for the owner's information and do not replace official food-safety testing.; MBRT TBC Milk Coliform Count
TSHalso: Thyroid-stimulating hormone, Thyrotropin, cTSH (canine TSH): TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is made by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain and tells the thyroid gland to make T4. When the thyroid gland is underactive, TSH usually rises.; TSH is mainly used in dogs and is read together with T4 or free T4. A high TSH with a low T4 supports a diagnosis of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Some dogs with an underactive thyroid still have a normal TSH, so a normal result does not always rule it out. Illness and some medicines can also affect thyroid results. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs, history and other tests.; Thyroid Profile (T3, T4 & TSH)TSH Canine Specific TSH
Thrombocytopeniaalso: Low platelet count, Low platelets, Thrombopenia: Thrombocytopenia means there are fewer platelets in the blood than normal, which can make an animal bleed or bruise more easily.; Signs may include small red or purple spots (petechiae) on the gums, skin or belly, nosebleeds, or blood in urine or stool. In dogs, tick-borne infections such as ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis and babesiosis are common causes; others include immune destruction of platelets, severe infection and bone marrow problems. Platelet clumps in the sample can make the count look falsely low, especially in cats, so the lab may check a smear. A vet decides what further tests are needed.; CBC Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear)Platelet Count
Titrealso: Titer, Antibody titre: A titre is a measure of how much antibody is in a blood sample. The lab dilutes the serum step by step, and the titre is the most diluted sample that still gives a positive reaction.; The report shows the titre as a dilution ratio: the higher the dilution, the more antibody there is. A single titre can be hard to read, because past infection and vaccination also produce antibodies. A rise between two samples taken some time apart, as the vet advises, often points to a recent or active infection. What counts as a meaningful titre depends on the test, the germ and the animal. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs, history and vaccination record.; Canine Vaccination Antibody Titre (Distemper, Parvo & Adenovirus)Lepto MAT STAT
Total proteinalso: TP, Serum total protein, Plasma protein: Total protein is the combined amount of all the proteins in serum or plasma, mainly albumin and globulins.; A high total protein may indicate dehydration or long-lasting inflammation, while a low level may indicate blood loss, protein loss through the gut or kidneys, liver failure or poor nutrition. In newborn calves, serum total protein is often used as a simple check of whether enough colostrum antibodies were absorbed. Plasma total protein reads a little higher than serum, because plasma still contains fibrinogen. A vet reads it with albumin, globulin, PCV and the animal's signs.; Protein Total Protein Total, Albumin, Globulin Calf Passive Transfer Test (Serum IgG / Total Protein)
Triglyceridesalso: TG, TRIG, Blood fats: Triglycerides are the main type of fat carried in the blood; they come from food and are also made by the liver.; Levels rise after a meal, which is why a fasting sample may be asked for. A high fasting level may be linked with diabetes, pancreatitis, an underactive thyroid or Cushing's disease, and some breeds, such as the Miniature Schnauzer, can inherit high blood fats. Very high levels make serum look milky (lipaemic), which can disturb other test results. The report shows the reference range for the species, and a vet interprets the result with the animal's signs.; Lipid Profile Cholesterol Total Triglycerides
Troponinalso: Cardiac troponin, Troponin I, cTnI, Troponin T, cTnT: Troponin is a protein found inside heart muscle cells. When these cells are injured, troponin leaks into the blood, so a raised level may indicate damage to the heart muscle.; Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is the form most often tested in dogs and cats. Levels can rise with inflammation or disease of the heart muscle, chest injury, and some serious whole-body illnesses such as severe infection or kidney disease. A raised result may indicate damage, but not its cause, so the vet may add an ECG, heart ultrasound or other tests. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Troponin-I Troponin-T Canine NT-proBNP

U

UPC ratioalso: UPC, UPCR, UP:C, Urine protein creatinine ratio: The UPC ratio (urine protein to creatinine ratio) compares the amount of protein in a urine sample with the amount of creatinine in the same sample. It shows how much protein is being lost in urine, using just one sample.; Comparing protein with creatinine cancels out how concentrated or dilute the urine is, so a whole day's urine collection is not needed. A raised UPC may indicate protein loss through the kidneys, which matters in dogs and cats with kidney disease. Blood, infection or inflammation in the urine can also raise it, so it is read with a urine routine test. The vet may repeat it to see whether the loss continues. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Routine UPC Microalbuminuria (Urine Albumin)
Urea and BUNalso: BUN, Blood urea nitrogen, Blood urea, Serum urea: Urea is a waste product made by the liver from broken-down protein and removed from the blood by the kidneys; BUN (blood urea nitrogen) is the same waste product reported in a different way.; A high level may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, bleeding into the gut or a recent high-protein meal, while a low level may be seen with liver failure or a low-protein diet. Urea is read with creatinine and urine tests to judge the kidneys. In cows and buffaloes, the rumen recycles urea and diet has a strong effect, so creatinine is often the better kidney marker, and blood or milk urea can also reflect the protein in the ration. A vet interprets it with the animal's signs.; KFT BUN Urea
Urinalysis (urine routine)also: Urine routine, Urine R/E, Urine analysis, UA: Urinalysis, or urine routine, is a set of checks on a urine sample: its look, its chemistry and what is seen under the microscope. It helps vets check the kidneys, bladder and general health.; A full urinalysis usually checks colour, clarity and specific gravity (how concentrated the urine is). A dipstick tests pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood and bilirubin, and a microscope look shows cells, crystals, casts and bacteria. A fresh sample gives the most reliable result, because cells break down and crystals can form while urine stands. Collect it in a clean container, as the vet advises. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history and may add a culture or UPC ratio.; Urine Routine UPC Urine Culture & Sensitivity
Urine sediment and crystalsalso: Urine microscopy, Urine deposits, Crystalluria: Urine sediment is the solid material that settles when a urine sample is spun in a machine called a centrifuge. Under the microscope it can show cells, bacteria, crystals and casts that help explain urinary problems.; Red and white blood cells may indicate bleeding or inflammation, bacteria may indicate infection, and casts (tiny tube-shaped plugs formed in the kidneys) may point to kidney problems. Crystals, such as struvite or calcium oxalate, form from minerals in urine. They do not always mean stones, and stones can be present without crystals. Crystals can also form in a sample that stands or is chilled, so a fresh sample is preferred. A vet reads the result with the animal's signs and history.; Urine Routine Stone Analysis Urine Culture & Sensitivity
Urine specific gravityalso: USG, Specific gravity, SG: Urine specific gravity (USG) shows how concentrated or dilute a urine sample is compared with pure water. It helps vets judge whether the kidneys can concentrate urine properly.; Healthy kidneys save water by making concentrated urine when the body needs it. Urine that stays dilute while an animal is dehydrated, or while blood urea and creatinine are high, may indicate kidney disease. It can also point to other illnesses that affect water balance, such as some hormone or liver problems. One dilute sample can be normal, for example after a big drink. USG is usually read with a small instrument called a refractometer. A vet reads it with the animal's signs, history and blood tests.; KFT Urine Routine

V

Vaccine titre testalso: Vaccine titer test, Antibody titre test, Vaccination antibody test: A vaccine titre test measures the level of antibodies against diseases an animal has been vaccinated for. It can help show whether the body has responded to vaccination.; In dogs, the test usually looks at antibodies to distemper, parvovirus and adenovirus, and in cats to panleukopenia, herpesvirus and calicivirus. In cows and buffaloes, antibody tests after vaccination can help check how well a herd has responded. A low titre does not always mean an animal is unprotected, and young animals may still carry their mother's antibodies. The vet decides what the result means for the vaccination plan. Do not skip or delay vaccines because of a result without your vet's advice.; Canine Vaccination Antibody Titre (Distemper, Parvo & Adenovirus)Feline Vaccination Antibody Titre (Panleukopenia, Herpes & Calici)FMD Structural-Protein Antibody ELISA (Vaccine Response)

W

WBC / TLC (White Blood Cells)also: WBC, TLC, Total leucocyte count, Leucocytes, Leukocytes, White cell count: White blood cells (WBCs) are the body's defence cells that fight infection and control inflammation; the WBC count or TLC (total leucocyte count) is the number of white cells in a set amount of blood.; There are five main types of white cell: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils, and a DLC shows the mix. A high count (leucocytosis) may be seen with infection, inflammation, stress or excitement. A low count (leucopenia) may be seen with some viral infections, overwhelming infection or bone marrow problems. Normal levels differ between species, so the result is compared with the reference range on the report and read by a vet with the animal's signs.; CBC TLC Leucocyte Count (TLC & DLC)
Whole bloodalso: EDTA blood, Anticoagulated blood: Whole blood is blood just as it comes from the vein, with its cells and liquid together, kept from clotting by a chemical in the tube, most often EDTA.; Whole blood is used when the blood cells themselves are tested, as in the CBC, blood smears for blood parasites, blood grouping and many PCR tests for infections carried in the blood. After filling, the tube is gently turned a few times so the blood mixes with the chemical and does not form small clots. It is sent without spinning. For a CBC, keep the tube cool but never freeze it, because freezing bursts the cells.; CBC Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear)Tick fever (cattle)

Z

Zoonosisalso: Zoonoses, Zoonotic disease: A zoonosis is a disease that can pass between animals and people. Examples include rabies, brucellosis, tuberculosis, leptospirosis, ringworm and toxoplasmosis.; Germs can spread through bites, scratches, urine, milk, dung, birth fluids or close contact. Wear gloves when handling sick animals or their samples, wash hands well, and see a doctor if you feel unwell. Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal must see a doctor at once. Rabies is tested only on brain tissue after death, sent through a vet after calling the lab. Lab tests on animals can help find some zoonotic infections so that the vet can advise on safe handling.; Toxoplasma IgG Lepto MAT RBPT

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