Laboratory for pets

In our laboratory we carry out various tests, including:

• Microscopy
• Blood analysis
• Urine sediment
• Faeces

Microscopy

The microscope is used in six different areas of application:

1. Skin scrapes or hair: searching for mites (scabies), lice, fungi, yeasts, bacteria, etc.
2. Histology and cytology: examining cell and tissue structures for form (benign or malignant tumours), bacterial or sterile inflammation or an allergic reaction.
3. Blood smear: search for abnormalities in the blood (e.g. the shape of the cells) or search for a parasite, germ or virus in the blood.
4. Urine: check whether crystals and/or blood cells are present in the urine.
5. Stools: research into zooflagellate (such as Giardia) and worms
6. Breeding guidance: vaginal smears, checking sperm quality

Blood analysis

At Dierenkliniek Het Zicht we have the Medonic. This is a blood analysis device that can tell us a lot about your pet with less than 1ml of blood. The Medonic counts the number of red and white blood cells, the number of platelets and also shows a distribution within the blood. So with this device the vet can check for example if there is an inflammation in the body or if your pet might be anaemic. This method of analysis is called haematology.

We also have the Spotchem. This blood analysis device measures the chemical values in the blood. It tells us more about the organs in your pet's body. Within a few minutes the vet will tell you if your pet has a liver or kidney abnormality or if he or she has diabetes. This method of analysis is called biochemistry.

By means of blood analysis we can find abnormalities in the hormonal system, thyroid gland and fertility.

Urine sediment

Examination of the urine may be necessary in several cases. When your pet suddenly starts drinking and/or urinating more, can't urinate or has difficulty stopping, it is wise to have a urine test done at the vet. This also applies when there is blood in the urine or when the urine has a different smell and/or colour. For a urine test, in most cases you only need to take the urine with you to the practice, but sometimes it is necessary to take your pet with you as well.

If your pet can no longer urinate, please call immediately! This is an emergency!

Urine can be examined by four different methods:

1. Refractometer: this allows the veterinarian to measure the urine specific gravity. In this way we can see whether the urine is very diluted or very concentrated.
2. Urine strip: this strip gives the veterinarian more information about the protein content, ketones, pH, leukocytes (inflammatory cells), glucose, bilirubin and red blood cells within seconds.
3. Sediment: after the urine has been centrifuged, the veterinarian looks at the sediment. These undissolved substances are examined under the microscope. This gives us more information about any crystals (grit), bacteria, white and red blood cells present in the urine.
4. Total analysis or hormone determination: sometimes it is necessary to send the urine to an external laboratory. Here, hormone determinations can be done, for example, to diagnose Cushing's disease.

Faeces

Stool research can be a very valuable diagnosis. Problems with stools can give clues with regard to digestion.

Under the microscope the veterinarian can look for parasites and/or bacteria. If your pet has complaints such as weight loss (despite normal appetite) or persistent diarrhoea, we often suggest collecting stools from your pet for a few days. This can then be examined by the vet.