Veterinary Laboratory Testing in Monona and Madison
Accurate diagnostic testing helps us understand what is happening inside your pet’s body and choose the most effective treatment. At Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic, we combine an in-house laboratory for urgent needs with a trusted reference laboratory to give dogs and cats in Monona and Madison fast, reliable results.
Reference Laboratory Testing
Most routine bloodwork is sent to a trusted external veterinary laboratory, where detailed results are typically returned within 24 hours. These comprehensive panels let our veterinarians evaluate organ function, blood cell counts, electrolytes, and hormone levels, and they are key to diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism in cats.
In-House Laboratory for Urgent Care
For pets who are sick or preparing for surgery or dental procedures, our in-house laboratory allows us to run important diagnostics quickly so treatment can begin without delay. During sick pet visits, we can also perform in-clinic tests such as ear and skin cytology, fine-needle aspirates of lumps, urinalysis, and eye testing.
Urine Cultures and Fecal Testing
Our clinic is equipped with an incubator that allows us to culture urine samples in-house. This helps confirm bacterial growth before samples are sent to a laboratory for antibiotic sensitivity testing, so we can select the most effective medication for urinary tract infections. Fecal samples are sent to a specialized veterinary laboratory for the most accurate parasite screening possible, since external analysis can detect parasites that may be missed with a single in-clinic test.
Common Tests We Recommend
- Annual heartworm and tick-borne disease screening to detect heartworm disease and Lyme disease
- Baseline and senior bloodwork at wellness exams
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork before surgery and dental cleanings
- Fecal testing for intestinal parasites
- Monitoring bloodwork for pets on long-term medications, such as those for arthritis
- Skin and ear testing for pets with allergies and ear infections
When more detailed imaging is needed, laboratory results work hand in hand with our ultrasounds and referrals, and any medications your pet needs can be filled at our pharmacy.
Veterinary Laboratory Testing FAQs
Why does my pet need bloodwork?
Bloodwork shows how your pet’s organs are functioning and can detect infections, anemia, and diseases like kidney disease or diabetes before symptoms appear.
How long does it take to get lab results?
Most reference laboratory results are returned within 24 hours. Urgent and pre-surgical tests can be run in our in-house laboratory for faster answers.
Why do you send fecal samples to an outside lab?
A specialized reference laboratory provides more accurate parasite screening and can detect parasites that may be missed with a single in-clinic test.
Do you culture urine samples?
Yes. We culture urine in-house with our incubator to confirm bacterial growth, then send samples out for antibiotic sensitivity testing when needed.
Is bloodwork needed before anesthesia?
Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is strongly recommended to make sure your pet’s organs can safely process anesthesia and medications.
How often should senior pets have bloodwork?
Many senior pets benefit from bloodwork every six to twelve months so we can catch changes early and adjust care.
Do I need to fast my pet before bloodwork?
Some tests are more accurate after a short fast. Our team will let you know if your pet should skip a meal before their appointment.
Get Answers About Your Pet’s Health
Diagnostic testing helps us give your pet the right care sooner. Call Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic at (608) 819-6750 or request an appointment in Monona and Madison.