Diagnostic Laboratory Testing
In-Clinic Laboratory Services
Having a range of diagnostic equipment available within our clinics helps us reach quicker diagnoses and begin treatment sooner.
In-House Blood Testing
We perform a range of dog and cat blood tests in South and East Auckland, enabling rapid assessment of your pet's health. Blood testing is commonly recommended when pets are unwell, before surgery, or as part of ongoing disease monitoring. Using in-house blood analysers, we can screen for abnormalities including Liver, Kidney, Diabetes, Electrolytes imbalances, Pancreatitis, Anaemia, Inflammation, Infections etc.
We also provide pre-anaesthetic blood testing on the morning of surgery. These tests help detect underlying issues such as liver or kidney disease, infection, anaemia or metabolic conditions. Identifying these concerns allows our veterinarians to tailor anaesthetic protocols and improve safety — particularly for senior pets or those with existing health problems.
If further advanced diagnostics are required, samples can be sent to external veterinary laboratories for comprehensive testing.
Urinalysis (Pet Urine Testing)
Urine testing for dogs and cats provides important information about kidney function, diabetes, urinary tract infections and bladder health. Urine samples may be collected using a "free catch" sample or via cystocentesis (a sterile needle collection technique).
We may recommend urinalysis when investigating:
Bladder infections or urinary tract disease
Bladder stones
Blocked bladder emergencies
Kidney disease
Sterile cystitis
Changes in drinking or urination habits
If you are asked to bring a urine sample to the clinic, collecting the first morning urine and keeping it refrigerated helps ensure the most reliable results. Urine samples are most reliable when analysed fresh.
Doppler Blood Pressure Monitoring
Just like people, pets can develop high blood pressure (hypertension). We provide pet blood pressure checks in South Auckland, particularly for:
Senior pets
Patients undergoing general anaesthesia
Kidney disease patients
Thyroid disease patients
Heart disease patients
Monitoring blood pressure helps detect hidden health problems and reduces surgical or anaesthetic risks.
In-Clinic Cytology
Our clinics also offer microscopic cytology testing, allowing rapid evaluation of:
Some of the lumps and skin masses
Ear infections and parasites
Skin conditions
Selected urine samples
Having an on-site microscope enables our veterinarians to obtain results quickly and start treatment without unnecessary delays.
Fast, Accurate Laboratory Support
For more specialised investigations, we work closely with trusted veterinary pathology laboratories that collect samples multiple times a day, ensuring prompt and accurate reporting reviewed by specialist veterinary pathologists.
Why Diagnostic Testing Matters
Modern veterinary care is not just about treating symptoms — it is about understanding the underlying cause of illness. Diagnostic testing allows our veterinarians to make informed decisions and provide the safest, most effective treatment for your pet.
At Pet Vets, we use advanced pet blood tests, urine tests, imaging and laboratory diagnostics to detect disease early, monitor ongoing conditions, and support long-term wellbeing.
Early testing can help:
Identify hidden illness before symptoms become severe
Detect conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, infections and hormonal disorders
Monitor response to medications and adjust treatment when needed
Improve safety before anaesthesia, surgery or dental procedures
Provide peace of mind for pet owners
By investing in accurate veterinary diagnostics, we can often improve treatment outcomes, reduce complications, and help pets live longer, healthier lives.
Book Diagnostic Testing at Pet Vets
If your pet is unwell, requires pre-surgical testing, or needs ongoing monitoring for a medical condition, our friendly team is here to help.
We are proud to support families across Papatoetoe, Mangere, Otahuhu, Mt. Wellington, Manurewa, Weymouth, Hill Park, Wattles Down, Gardens, Alfriston, Manukau, Papakura, Takanini, Chapel Park, Clover Park, Flat Bush, and surrounding South and East Auckland suburbs with accessible, high-quality diagnostic services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Diagnostic Testing
The cost of dog or cat blood testing can vary depending on the type of test required. Our veterinarians will discuss recommended tests and provide an estimate before proceeding.
Pre-anaesthetic blood testing helps identify underlying health problems such as liver or kidney disease, infection or anaemia. This allows us to tailor anaesthetic protocols and improve safety during surgery.
Many in-house veterinary test results are available on the same day. More specialised tests sent to external laboratories usually return within 1–3 working days.
Fasting is sometimes recommended to improve test accuracy or imaging quality. Our team will provide clear instructions before your appointment.
Urinalysis can help diagnose urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, bladder stones and inflammatory bladder conditions.
Most tests involve minimal discomfort. Blood samples are collected using a small needle, similar to human blood tests. Ultrasound and urine testing are generally painless procedures.
You should consult your veterinarian if your pet shows signs such as vomiting, lethargy, weight loss, increased drinking or urination, breathing changes, or reduced appetite. Diagnostic testing can help determine the cause.