There are a lot of acronyms used in the medical field. One area where we use abbreviations frequently is with the blood work and laboratory tests we run. In this three part series of blogs, we will look at some of the different abbreviations and acronyms we use so you can speak the lingo with us! In this third part of the series, we will discuss other miscellaneous tests we use in veterinary medicine. One of the more common additional tests we use is the T4, or thyroid test. Dogs tend to get a low T4 as they age, and this can cause changes in weight, appetite, and haircoat. Cats on the other hand, tend to get an elevated T4, which can cause vomiting, weight loss, increased appetite, increased vocalization, and/or increased activity level. Thyroid function is important for metabolism, but can also cause heart, skin, or GI tract issues when not in the normal range. Another very common test we perform is the urinalysis, or UA. This test looks at the specific gravity (concentration) of the urine, checks for sugar or ketones in the urine indicating diabetes, as well as looking for red or white blood cells, bacteria, crystals, and pH. It can show things such as possible bladder stones, urinary tract […]
Learn MoreThe pet’s GI, or gastrointestinal, tract, is a word used to describe the tube that takes food from the mouth, to the stomach, intestines, and colon. It may also include a number of organs that help with digestion of nutrients and removal of waste products, including the pancreas, liver, and kidneys, thyroid, and even the brain. Given that most of the body is included in this list, it shouldn’t be a surprise that when a pet becomes ill, one of the many signs we might see can include the GI tract, such as vomiting. Vomiting is a very common complaint in our pets. You might think it means that there is something wrong with the GI tract itself, which may be true, but issues in many of the other organs of the can also lead to vomiting. This is why we recommend an examination, take a thorough history of signs, appetite, exposure to other pets, toxins, foods, etc. and may recommend tests including blood work to look at organ function, for signs of infection or anemia, stool analysis to look at bacterial balance, and x-rays or ultrasound to look internally at the organs. Just to give you an idea of things that can cause vomiting in a pet, here is a list. It […]
Learn MoreHeritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.