I'm really anxious here and could use some help. I just got my cat Misty’s blood work results back, and honestly, I'm feeling overwhelmed and confused. The vet's office was super busy today, and I didn't get much of a breakdown of the numbers and terms. I see things like “elevated creatinine” and "anemia," but I have no idea what these mean for her health. Misty's been a bit off lately—less energetic and not eating much, which is why we went to the vet in the first place. I trust my vet, but I wasn’t able to ask all my questions. Has anyone here gone through something similar? What should I be expecting, and is there anything I should be doing right now to help her feel better? I'd be so grateful for any advice or personal experiences you could share.
Hello there! It’s great that you’re taking an active interest in understanding your cat’s blood work. Blood tests give us a snapshot of your kitty’s overall health, just like a health check-up for us humans. They typically check on things like red and white blood cells, platelets, kidney and liver function, blood sugar, and more.
Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, so if levels are low, your kitty might be experiencing anemia, which could make them feel tired. On the other hand, high levels might mean they’re dehydrated or have an underlying condition affecting the bone marrow.
White blood cells are part of the immune system. A high count might indicate an infection or inflammation. Low levels can be concerning too, as it might mean the immune system isn’t working as it should.
Liver enzymes and kidney values help us assess how well these organs are functioning. Elevations might point to issues like infections, toxins, or even diseases like diabetes. Regular monitoring is crucial to catch any changes early.
At home, keep an eye on changes in behavior, appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any signs of discomfort. If your cat seems unusually tired, is losing weight, or drinking and urinating more than usual, these could be signs of something that needs attention.
If you’re worried or in need of more clarification, it might be helpful to book a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. We’d love to provide a detailed explanation tailored specifically to your cat’s situation.
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