What is a CBC? 

It is a Complete Blood Count. A small amount of blood is collected and the different types of cells are counted and looked at. CBC's are often used to evaluate any sick patient and even healthy older animals.

The Red Blood Cells carry oxygen to the body. In addition to the numbers, we also look at the size, shape and the amount of hemoglobin in the cells.

The White Blood Cells are indicators of infection and inflammation. There are different types of white blood cells. Increases or decreases of each type of cell can help distinguish what is causing an infection or the inflammation. Is there a bacterial infection? Is there an allergic reaction occurring? What about a long term Virus infection?

This test can be performed in our hospital or can be sent to an outside laboratory.