Understanding Test Results (CBC)

This is a guide to help you understand your pet’s Complete Blood Count (CBC) test results. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us and speak to one of our technicians.

HEMOGLOBIN is an oxygen carrier in red blood cells. Low levels indicate anemia.

PCV (packed cell volume) measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. This helps to detect anemia or dehydration.

PLASMA PROTEIN helps determine if dehydration or blood loss has occurred.

RBC (red blood cell count) can indicate anemia, as well as liver or spleen changes, or exposure to toxins.

RETICULOCYTES are immature red blood cells. High levels can indicate a recovery from anemia.

MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) MCV (mean corpuscular volume) and RDW (red blood cell distribution width): These are all red blood cell measurements that help assess recovery from anemia.

WBC (white blood cell count) measures the body’s cells that fight infections. Increases or decreases can indicate certain diseases or conditions.

LYMPHOCYTES are a type of white blood cell. They are also important in evaluating the immune system.

MONOCYTES are also a type of white blood cell. A rise in these may indicate an acute stress on the body or a chronic problem.

EOSINOPHILS are a type of white blood cell that may indicate allergic or parasitic conditions.

BASOPHILS are a type of white blood cell that may elevate due to certain allergies, skin conditions, respiratory disease, or parasitic conditions.

PLATELET COUNT measures platelet levels that are essential for normal clotting of blood to occur.