What tests should be done on a cat for infections? - briefly
To diagnose infections in cats, routine blood tests and urinalysis are essential. Additionally, specific tests like fecal examinations, skin scrapings, or cultures may be recommended based on symptoms and suspected infection sites.
What tests should be done on a cat for infections? - in detail
When a cat is suspected of having an infection, it is crucial to conduct a thorough diagnostic workup to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment. The following tests are typically recommended:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test provides information about the types and numbers of cells in the blood. Infections often lead to changes such as an increase in white blood cell count, which can help indicate the presence of an infection. Specifically, elevated neutrophils are commonly seen in bacterial infections, while lymphocytosis may be associated with viral infections.
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Serum Biochemistry Panel: This panel measures various substances in the blood, including enzymes, electrolytes, and metabolites. Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) can indicate a systemic infection or inflammation, while changes in kidney values may suggest renal involvement. Abnormalities in these tests can provide clues about the organ systems affected by the infection.
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Urinalysis: Analyzing the urine can reveal signs of infection, such as bacteria, white blood cells, or protein. This test is particularly important for diagnosing lower urinary tract infections, which are common in cats. A positive result on a urine culture can confirm the presence of a bacterial infection and guide antibiotic therapy.
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Fecal Examination: Parasitic infections are common in cats, and fecal examination can help identify the presence of worms or other parasites. This test involves microscopic evaluation of the stool for ova (eggs), larvae, or adult parasites.
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Serology: Depending on the suspected infection, serological tests may be performed to detect antibodies against specific pathogens. Common examples include feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) tests for viral infections, as well as titers for bacterial diseases such as Bartonella or Mycoplasma.
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Cytology: A sample of cells from the affected area can be examined under a microscope to look for signs of infection. This is commonly done with skin lesions, ear discharge, or fluid from body cavities. The presence of inflammatory cells and bacteria can help confirm an infectious process.
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Imaging Studies: Radiographs (X-rays) or ultrasound may be used to visualize internal structures and detect signs of infection. These imaging modalities can reveal changes such as fluid accumulation, soft tissue swelling, or abscess formation in various parts of the body.
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Culture and Sensitivity Testing: If a bacterial infection is suspected, culturing samples from infected sites (such as blood, urine, or wounds) can identify the specific bacteria involved. Sensitivity testing determines which antibiotics are most effective against the identified pathogen, ensuring targeted and appropriate therapy.
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Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This advanced diagnostic technique can detect small amounts of genetic material from viruses, bacteria, or parasites. PCR is particularly useful for identifying fastidious organisms that are difficult to culture, such as certain viral infections or Mycoplasma species.
By performing these comprehensive tests, veterinarians can gain a detailed understanding of the cat's infection status and develop an effective treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the animal.