Diagnostic Testing

IN-house Laboratory

​Sometimes time is a critical component of an illness, which is why we have an in-house laboratory to perform blood tests or urinalysis. Our equipment is state-of-the-art and we’re always happy to give you a tour of our lab. We screen for many important conditions and can follow hospitalized patients more closely with this in-house equipment.

Radiology

Radiographs show the size and shape of the internal organs and bones. Our equipment is digital so it provides amazing detail and increased accuracy in your cat’s diagnosis. Most of the time your sweet kitty will be able to lay on the X-ray table with gentle assistance from our technicians. At times, though, we may need to give your cat some sedation or pain relief medication to help him/her be more relaxed. Our doctors will always discuss their recommendations with you first. Sometimes, it is helpful to have a radiologist examine the X-ray in complicated situations or if your  doctor feels additional information is required. We consult with board certified radiologists to make sure your cat’s X-ray provides the most detailed information.

Ultrasound

We use ultrasound to visualize your cat’s internal organs. Most of the time we will be examining the bladder while collecting a urine sample. This non-invasive test provides information not available in radiographs. We will always invite you to join your cat so that you can stay involved at every step. For more complex ultrasound studies, we invite a board certified radiologist to visit our hospital with their own preferred ultrasound system. Making sure we obtain all the information we need for the best outcome is our number one goal.

Cardiology

​When it comes to cardiology, blood pressure measurement is probably the most familiar to you. Your blood pressure is tested nearly every time you visit your doctor! This test is important for cats as well. Many conditions can make blood pressure rise  with the potential to damage the heart. The cuffs we use for your cat are similar to the one used on you just smaller. Our nurses may wear headphones if the type of machine we are using is likely to make any noise that might disturb your kitty. Another way to gather information about the heart is an Electrocardiogram or “ECG.”  This too is done just like it would be done on you with clips placed on the chest in various spots. The ECG may accompany radiographs or ultrasounds of the heart to give our doctors a complete picture of what’s going on with your kitty.