CBC

Why is a CBC important?

A CBC can have various reasons, for example:

• To check the general health of your dog
• To make or rule out a diagnosis if your dog shows symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting or diarrhea
• To monitor the progress of an illness or treatment
• To detect possible side effects of medication or vaccinations
• To take preventive measures, such as worming or teeth cleaning

How is a CBC carried out?

A CBC is usually performed by a veterinarian or a laboratory. A small amount of blood is taken from one of your dog's veins, usually from the front leg. The blood is then placed in a special device that analyzes the various blood components and prints or displays the results on a screen. The blood collection only takes a few minutes and is usually not painful for your dog.

How are the results interpreted?

The results of a CBC can vary depending on your dog's age, breed, sex and health. Therefore, it is important that you always discuss them with your vet, who can interpret them in the context of your dog's clinical examination and medical history. Some of the key parameters that a CBC measures are:

• The number of red blood cells (RBCs), which carry oxygen in the blood. A low count may indicate anemia, while a high count may indicate dehydration or bone marrow disease.
• The number of white blood cells (WBC), which are responsible for fighting off infections. A low value may indicate an immune deficiency or a viral infection, while a high value may indicate a bacterial infection or inflammation.
• The number of platelets (PLT) , which are responsible for blood clotting. A low value may indicate an increased tendency to bleed or an autoimmune disease, while a high value may indicate inflammation or a tumor.
• The hemoglobin level (HGB), which indicates the oxygen content in the blood. A low value may indicate anemia, while a high value may indicate dehydration or lung disease.

What are the normal values for a CBC in dogs?

Normal values for a CBC in dogs can vary slightly depending on the source. Here are some guidelines you can use as a reference:

What are the possible causes of deviations from the normal value?

There are many possible causes for deviations from the normal value of a CBC in dogs. Some of these are:

• Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites
• Inflammation due to allergies, injuries or autoimmune diseases
• Tumors or cancer
• Diseases of the bone marrow, liver, kidneys or thyroid gland
• Medication or vaccinations
• Stress, anxiety or pain
• Nutrition, hydration or blood loss

How often should a CBC be performed in dogs?

The frequency with which a CBC should be performed in dogs depends on several factors, such as your dog's age, breed, health status and lifestyle. In general, it is recommended that:

• Healthy dogs should have a CBC at least once a year, preferably as part of a routine check-up
• Young or old dogs should have a CBC more often as they are more susceptible to disease
• Dogs with chronic conditions or under treatment should have a CBC regularly to monitor the progress and effectiveness of therapy
• Dogs with acute symptoms or suspected disease should have a CBC as soon as possible to establish or rule out a diagnosis