You know your pet best—their quirky routines, the sound of their paws on the floor, and the comfort of their presence. So when something feels “off,” even if everything looks normal, it’s natural to worry. At Flora Family Vet in Kissimmee, Florida, we believe in proactive care that goes beyond the visible. One of the most powerful tools we have for detecting hidden illness is annual bloodwork. It’s a simple step with life-changing potential.

What Is Annual Bloodwork?

Annual bloodwork offers a comprehensive snapshot of your pet’s internal health—often before any symptoms appear. These tests serve two essential purposes: early disease detection and establishing baseline health values that help track changes over time.

The Core Components

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): Assesses red and white blood cells and platelets. It helps us identify anemia, inflammation, infection, and clotting disorders.
  • Chemistry Panel: Evaluates organ function—especially the liver, kidneys, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar—which are critical indicators of systemic health.

Having baseline bloodwork is especially valuable when your pet isn’t feeling well later. It gives us a “normal” to compare to—because sometimes “normal” on the outside isn’t so normal on the inside. Learn more about diagnostic testing in pets from the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Why Annual Bloodwork Matters

While many pets appear perfectly healthy during physical exams, bloodwork can reveal hidden issues before they become serious.

Early Detection Can Uncover

  • Kidney Disease: Common in older cats, kidney issues often don’t show physical symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Learn more from Cornell Feline Health Center
  • Liver Disease: Elevated liver enzymes can point to inflammation, infection, or toxin exposure. Early treatment is often simpler and more effective.
  • Diabetes: High blood glucose levels may indicate diabetes—a manageable condition when caught early. AAHA explains more here.
  • Thyroid Disorders:
  • Hypothyroidism in dogs can cause weight gain and lethargy. Cornell Canine Health Center – Hypothyroidism
  • Hyperthyroidism in cats leads to weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity.
  • Cancer Indicators: While bloodwork can’t confirm cancer, abnormal values like persistent anemia or elevated calcium can prompt early, life-saving diagnostics.

What If My Pet Seems Healthy?

That’s exactly why annual bloodwork is so important.

Most early-stage illnesses show no obvious signs.

By the time symptoms become noticeable, disease may already be advanced—requiring more intensive (and costly) treatment. Annual bloodwork is a tool to catch issues while they’re still manageable, allowing us to act early and keep your pet feeling like themselves.

When “Normal” Isn’t Actually Normal

Every pet is unique. What’s “normal” for one may not be for another. That’s why tracking trends in your pet’s blood values over time is so valuable. Small, gradual changes that might otherwise go unnoticed can be caught early through annual testing—making interventions more effective.

From Bloodwork to Better Health

When we detect abnormalities early, we can make adjustments that help your pet feel better sooner—and stay healthier longer. Bloodwork results can influence:

  • Dietary Changes: Prescription diets may support liver or kidney health, or help manage diabetes.
  • Medication Plans: Catching thyroid issues or early organ dysfunction may mean starting medication before more serious symptoms occur.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Exercise routines or hydration needs may be modified to support your pet’s specific condition.

Even if treatment isn’t immediately needed, identifying risk factors early helps us build a tailored care plan that evolves with your pet.

Preparing for Your Pet’s Bloodwork Appointment

Make the most of your visit by preparing in advance:

Bring:

  • A list of all current medications and supplements
  • Notes on any recent behavior changes (e.g., increased thirst, vomiting, lethargy)
  • Previous medical records if you’re new to our clinic

Ask your veterinarian:

  • “Which tests are being done, and why?”
  • “How often should these tests be repeated for my pet?”
  • “What’s the next step if an abnormality is found?”

Fasting may be recommended before bloodwork, especially if glucose or triglyceride levels are being evaluated—check with us beforehand.

Common Questions, Answered

Is bloodwork painful for my pet?
Not usually. It involves a quick blood draw, often from a vein in the leg or neck, and is well-tolerated by most pets.

How long does it take to get results?
In most cases, results are available within 24–48 hours. We’ll follow up promptly to discuss them with you.

How much does bloodwork cost?
It varies depending on the panel and any additional tests, but it’s a fraction of what emergency treatment might cost for an undetected condition. We offer transparent pricing and can discuss payment options if needed.

Is bloodwork really necessary every year?
Yes. Even if your pet seems healthy, bloodwork is essential for catching changes early, especially in senior pets or those with chronic conditions.

The Real Cost of Delayed Detection

Conditions like kidney failure, liver disease, and diabetes can progress for months—or even years—without outward symptoms. By the time your pet acts “sick,” treatment options may be limited.

Annual bloodwork is more than a test—it’s a strategy for prevention, peace of mind, and proactive care.

Your Partner in Preventive Care

At Flora Family Vet, we’re committed to helping you protect your pet’s health at every stage of life. Annual bloodwork is just one part of that commitment—but it’s a powerful one.

Whether your pet is due for their annual exam or you simply want peace of mind, we’re here to support you with compassionate, personalized care. Schedule an appointment or contact us today to learn more about how we can help your pet thrive.

Together, we can make “normal” truly mean healthy.