All About Feline Hemogram (Complete Blood Count) – Understanding Every Parameter

What Is a Hemogram in Cats and Why Is It Important?

A hemogram, also known as a Complete Blood Count (CBC), is one of the most essential laboratory tests used in veterinary medicine. It provides a detailed evaluation of the cellular components of a cat’s blood — red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets — offering valuable insight into overall health and internal balance.

In cats, a hemogram helps detect infections, anemia, inflammation, immune suppression, and blood-clotting problems before they cause visible clinical signs. The test measures both the quantity and quality of blood cells, enabling an assessment of oxygen transport, immune strength, and bone marrow activity.

Common situations where veterinarians request a feline hemogram include:

• Loss of appetite, weakness, lethargy, or pale gums

• Fever, chronic infections, or inflammation

• Pre-anesthetic screening before surgery

• Monitoring of chronic diseases (kidney failure, diabetes, thyroid disorders)

• Follow-up during recovery from illness or medication treatment

Because blood cells are the first to respond to changes inside the body, a hemogram functions as a window into the cat’s internal health, often revealing problems long before external symptoms appear.

Which Parameters Are Measured in a Feline Hemogram?

A feline hemogram measures multiple groups of parameters, divided into three main categories:

1. White blood cells (WBC and subtypes) – Represent the immune system’s defense response.

2. Red blood cells (RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW) – Indicate the oxygen-carrying capacity and reveal anemic conditions.

3. Platelets (PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, P-LCC, P-LCR) – Reflect the body’s clotting ability and bone marrow activity.

Additionally, certain calculated ratios are included in modern analyzers:

• NLR (Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio): Used as an indirect marker of stress, infection, or inflammation.

• PLR (Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio): Helps evaluate inflammatory or neoplastic activity.

Each of these parameters contributes to a complete picture of a cat’s physiological state.For example:

• Elevated WBC values may indicate bacterial infection or immune activation.

• Low RBC or HGB levels may suggest anemia or chronic disease.

• Abnormal PLT counts can signal clotting disorders or bone marrow dysfunction.

By analyzing all these elements together, the hemogram offers a comprehensive snapshot of a cat’s systemic health, from immunity to oxygen delivery and coagulation.

WBC (White Blood Cells) – The Mirror of Immunity

White blood cells (WBC) are the body’s primary defense against infection. In cats, they play a crucial role in identifying, attacking, and eliminating invading microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

The normal WBC range for cats is approximately 5.0 – 12.0 x10⁹/L. Deviations from this range often indicate immune system activity or suppression.

WBC Increase (Leukocytosis)

• Bacterial infections: Often accompanied by fever and inflammation.

• Inflammatory conditions: Chronic inflammation or tissue injury.

• Stress response: Temporary elevation due to cortisol and adrenaline release.

• Steroid administration: Artificially raises circulating white blood cell count.

WBC Decrease (Leukopenia)

• Viral infections: Such as FIV, FeLV, or feline panleukopenia.

• Bone marrow suppression: Caused by toxins or certain medications.

• Severe systemic infection: When immune cell reserves are depleted.

The total WBC value reflects the body’s immune readiness. However, subtypes of white blood cells — lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes — must be evaluated together to understand the specific cause of deviation.

Lym# and Lym% (Lymphocytes) – The Core of Immune Defense

Lymphocytes form the backbone of the adaptive immune system in cats. They produce antibodies, recognize antigens, and regulate immune responses.

• Lym# represents the absolute lymphocyte count (x10⁹/L).

• Lym% indicates the proportion of lymphocytes among total white blood cells (%).

Typical reference ranges for cats are:

• Lym#: 1.3 – 5.8 x10⁹/L

• Lym%: 25 – 62%

Lymphocytosis (High Lymphocyte Count)

• Viral infections or immune stimulation.

• Chronic inflammation or recovery from infection.

• Allergic reactions and vaccination response.

• Normal in young cats due to an active immune system.

Lymphopenia (Low Lymphocyte Count)

• Stress-induced hormonal response (cortisol effect).

• Chronic bacterial infection or severe illness.

• Viral bone marrow suppression (e.g., FeLV or FIV).

Lymphocytes determine how effectively the immune system can recognize and neutralize pathogens. Their balance with neutrophils provides critical information about the immune state of the cat.

Mid# and Mid% (Monocytes, Eosinophils, and Basophils) – The Secondary Defense Line

The term Mid (short for “middle cells”) represents the combined population of monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils in a feline hemogram. These cells act as supporting immune elements between lymphocytes and granulocytes.

Typical feline reference ranges:

• Mid#: 0.06–2.04 x10⁹/L

• Mid%: 1.1–17.2%

Monocytes

Monocytes are phagocytic cells responsible for cleaning up dead cells and pathogens at infection sites.They migrate into tissues and transform into macrophages, participating in chronic inflammatory and repair processes.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are associated with allergic responses and parasitic infestations.They release enzymes that help neutralize allergens and destroy parasites such as intestinal worms and mites.

Basophils

Basophils are the least common white blood cells. They release histamine and heparin, triggering allergic and hypersensitivity reactions.

Elevated Mid values often indicate immune system stimulation or tissue repair activity, while decreased values may be observed in stress conditions or suppressed bone marrow activity.

Gran# and Gran% (Granulocytes) – The First Responders Against Infection

Granulocytes are the body’s immediate response cells against bacterial invasion. They are primarily composed of neutrophils, along with eosinophils and basophils in smaller proportions.

Reference ranges for cats:

• Gran#: 2.18–6.96 x10⁹/L

• Gran%: 38–70%

Granulocytosis (High Granulocyte Count)

• Bacterial infections: Active inflammation or abscess formation.

• Physiological stress: Temporary elevation due to cortisol.

• Medication effects: Steroid therapy may transiently increase counts.

Granulocytopenia (Low Granulocyte Count)

• Viral diseases: Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), FIV, or panleukopenia.

• Advanced infections: Immune cell depletion during prolonged disease.

• Toxic or drug exposure: Chemotherapy or toxin-induced bone marrow suppression.

Granulocytes represent the acute immune response, playing a key role in identifying and neutralizing bacterial pathogens within hours of infection onset.

NLR (Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio) – Indicator of Stress and Inflammation

The NLR value is the ratio between neutrophils and lymphocytes. It provides indirect insight into a cat’s stress level, infection status, or systemic inflammation.The calculation is simple: divide the neutrophil count by the lymphocyte count.

In healthy cats, NLR typically ranges between 1.0 – 3.0.

High NLR

• Suggests bacterial infection or acute inflammatory activity.

• May also occur due to physical or emotional stress, where cortisol increases neutrophil counts and decreases lymphocytes.

• Commonly observed in systemic inflammatory conditions.

Low NLR

• Indicates viral infection or enhanced immune activation.

• Seen when lymphocytes increase and neutrophils decline.

Because neutrophils act quickly while lymphocytes respond more slowly, the NLR reflects the dynamic balance between innate and adaptive immunity.

PLR (Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio) – A New Marker in Systemic Inflammation

The PLR value expresses the relationship between platelet count (PLT) and lymphocyte count (Lym#).It serves as a combined indicator of inflammation, immune response, and clotting activity.

The normal feline PLR range is approximately 50 – 100.

High PLR

• Associated with chronic inflammatory or immune-mediated processes.

• Can result from increased platelet production during prolonged tissue irritation or stress.

Low PLR

• Occurs when platelet production decreases or lymphocytes increase significantly, as in viral diseases or bone marrow suppression.

PLR is increasingly recognized as an integrative parameter connecting the immune and hematologic systems, reflecting the overall physiological balance in cats.

RBC (Red Blood Cells) – The Oxygen Carriers

Red blood cells (RBC), or erythrocytes, are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and returning carbon dioxide for exhalation. They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate for about two months before being replaced.

The normal RBC range in cats is 5.0 – 10.0 x10⁶/µL. This value reflects the blood’s capacity to deliver oxygen effectively.

High RBC (Erythrocytosis)

• Dehydration: Plasma volume decreases, making RBC concentration appear elevated.

• Chronic hypoxia: Conditions that reduce oxygen availability stimulate red cell production.

• Polycythemia vera: Rare bone marrow disorder that produces excess erythrocytes.

Low RBC (Erythropenia)

• Anemia: Caused by blood loss, nutritional deficiency, or bone marrow suppression.

• Parasitic infections: Blood parasites such as Mycoplasma haemofelis destroy red cells.

• Chronic kidney disease: Reduced erythropoietin production limits RBC formation.

RBC count is always interpreted alongside hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) to determine blood oxygenation and identify anemia types.

HGB (Hemoglobin) – The Pigment That Gives Blood Its Strength

Hemoglobin (HGB) is the iron-containing protein within red blood cells that binds and transports oxygen. It gives blood its characteristic red color and determines how efficiently tissues receive oxygen.

In cats, normal hemoglobin levels range from 8 – 15 g/dL.

High Hemoglobin (Hyperhemoglobinemia)

• Dehydration or excessive red cell production increases hemoglobin concentration.

• Occurs concurrently with elevated RBC and hematocrit values.

Low Hemoglobin (Hypohemoglobinemia)

• Indicates anemia, chronic blood loss, or poor nutrition (iron, copper, vitamin B12 deficiency).

• Also seen in bone marrow disorders and chronic illnesses.

Hemoglobin levels correlate directly with a cat’s ability to oxygenate tissues. Low readings are often associated with pale gums, fatigue, and reduced vitality.

HCT (Hematocrit) – The Volume of Blood Cells

Hematocrit (HCT) represents the proportion of blood occupied by red blood cells compared to plasma. It indicates how concentrated or diluted the blood is and is one of the key parameters in diagnosing anemia or dehydration.

The normal hematocrit range for cats is 30–45%.

High Hematocrit (Hemoconcentration)

• Dehydration: A reduction in plasma volume makes red cell concentration appear higher.

• Increased RBC production: Chronic oxygen deprivation (hypoxia) stimulates the bone marrow to produce more erythrocytes.

• Polycythemia: A rare disorder causing excessive erythrocyte formation.

Low Hematocrit

• Anemia: A decrease in red blood cell mass lowers the overall packed cell volume.

• Chronic disease: Long-term inflammation or kidney failure can suppress erythropoietin and reduce production.

• Blood loss: Trauma, ulcers, or internal bleeding reduce both cell count and hematocrit.

Hematocrit is interpreted alongside RBC and HGB values to assess oxygen transport efficiency and hydration status.

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) – Key to Anemia Classification

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) measures the average size of red blood cells. It is critical for classifying anemia and identifying the underlying cause.

The normal feline MCV range is 39–55 fL.

High MCV (Macrocytosis)

• Vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency: Impaired DNA synthesis leads to larger-than-normal red cells.

• Bone marrow regeneration: Younger erythrocytes released into circulation are typically larger.

• Hemolytic anemia: Destruction of old cells triggers production of larger reticulocytes.

Low MCV (Microcytosis)

• Iron deficiency: Insufficient hemoglobin synthesis results in smaller cells.

• Chronic disease anemia: Persistent inflammation may reduce red cell size.

MCV is used with MCH and MCHC to determine whether an anemia is microcytic, macrocytic, or normocytic, helping to classify its type and severity.

MCH and MCHC (Hemoglobin Concentration Inside Erythrocytes)

MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) measures the average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell, whileMCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) indicates the average concentration of hemoglobin within a given volume of red cells.

These parameters help evaluate the color and oxygen-carrying capacity of erythrocytes.

Normal feline reference ranges:

• MCH: 12–17 pg

• MCHC: 30–36 g/dL

High MCH / MCHC (Hyperchromia)

• May result from decreased plasma volume (dehydration).

• Suggests relatively more hemoglobin per cell.

Low MCH / MCHC (Hypochromia)

• Indicates reduced hemoglobin synthesis.

• Common in iron-deficiency anemia or chronic blood loss.

MCH and MCHC are typically interpreted alongside MCV values to describe red cell morphology and classify anemia as hypochromic or normochromic.

RDW-CV and RDW-SD (Variability in Red Cell Size)

RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) assesses the degree of variation in red blood cell size, a condition known as anisocytosis. It has two expressions:

• RDW-CV (%): Percentage variation in red cell volume relative to the mean.

• RDW-SD (fL): Absolute measurement of red cell size distribution.

Normal feline ranges:

• RDW-CV: 14–20%

• RDW-SD: 35–45 fL

High RDW (Anisocytosis)

• Indicates unequal red cell sizes.

• Seen in regenerative anemias, where both young (large) and old (small) cells coexist.

• May also occur in nutritional deficiencies such as iron or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Low RDW

• Suggests uniformity in red cell size.

• Usually physiologic and not associated with pathology.

RDW helps determine whether anemia is regenerative (bone marrow actively producing cells) or non-regenerative (production failure).

PLT (Platelets) – The Foundation of Blood Clotting

PLT (Platelet Count) measures the number of platelets circulating in the bloodstream.Platelets are small cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow, and they play an essential role in blood clotting and wound repair.

Normal feline platelet count: 300–800 x10³/µL.

High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis)

• May occur during inflammation or infection.

• Can follow chronic blood loss or iron deficiency as the bone marrow increases production.

• Sometimes linked to transient stress or steroid effects.

Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)

• May result from immune-mediated destruction of platelets.

• Common during severe viral infections or bone marrow suppression.

• Can accompany bleeding disorders or toxin exposure.

Platelet count provides essential information on the cat’s clotting capacity and the bone marrow’s ability to produce platelets.

MPV (Mean Platelet Volume) – Measuring Platelet Size and Activity

MPV reflects the average size of platelets in circulation. Larger platelets are generally younger and more active, while smaller ones are older and less metabolically active.

Normal feline MPV range: 9–12 fL.

High MPV

• Indicates the presence of larger, newly produced platelets.

• Common when the body is replacing consumed or destroyed platelets.

Low MPV

• Suggests reduced platelet production or aging platelet populations.

• May occur when bone marrow activity is decreased.

MPV complements the PLT value, showing whether platelet numbers are changing due to increased destruction, production, or aging within circulation.

PDW-CV and PDW-SD (Platelet Distribution Width)

PDW (Platelet Distribution Width) measures the variation in platelet size within the bloodstream, similar to how RDW measures red cell variation. It provides information about platelet heterogeneity and bone marrow activity.

Two main forms are used:

• PDW-CV (%): The percentage variation of platelet size relative to the mean platelet volume.

• PDW-SD (fL): The absolute width of platelet size distribution.

Normal feline reference values:

• PDW-CV: 15–25%

• PDW-SD: 7–11 fL

High PDW

• Indicates a mixture of young (large) and old (small) platelets in circulation.

• Occurs when platelet production increases or during regenerative phases after blood loss.

Low PDW

• Suggests uniform platelet size and stable bone marrow activity.

• Usually not associated with disease.

PDW reflects platelet population dynamics and helps evaluate the maturity and production rate of circulating platelets.

PCT (Plateletcrit) – The Total Platelet Mass in Blood

PCT (Plateletcrit) represents the total volume of platelets in the blood as a percentage of total blood volume, comparable to hematocrit for red cells. It shows the overall platelet mass rather than the count alone.

Normal PCT range in cats: 0.17–0.35%.

High PCT

• Indicates increased platelet number or size.

• Common in inflammatory or reactive conditions.

Low PCT

• Caused by decreased platelet production or excessive platelet loss.

• Observed in thrombocytopenia or bone marrow suppression.

PCT offers a broad view of clotting potential by combining both platelet count and platelet volume into a single value.

P-LCC and P-LCR (Significance of Large Platelets)

P-LCC (Platelet Large Cell Count) and P-LCR (Platelet Large Cell Ratio) measure the presence of large-sized platelets in circulation.These parameters reflect platelet maturity and bone marrow production activity.

• P-LCC: Indicates the absolute number of large platelets (x10³/µL).

• P-LCR: Expresses the proportion of large platelets relative to the total platelet population (%).

Typical feline ranges:

• P-LCC: 30–100 x10³/µL

• P-LCR: 25–45%

High P-LCC / P-LCR

• Suggests increased platelet turnover and release of newly formed, larger platelets.

• Seen when bone marrow accelerates platelet regeneration following loss or destruction.

Low P-LCC / P-LCR

• Indicates fewer large platelets in circulation.

• Associated with reduced production or dominance of older, smaller platelets.

These values are evaluated together with PLT and MPV to determine whether platelet changes stem from increased consumption or decreased production.

How to Interpret a Feline Hemogram Accurately

A feline hemogram should be evaluated by considering all parameters together, not individually.Each blood cell group — white cells, red cells, and platelets — functions as part of an interconnected system, and their collective patterns reveal the cat’s physiological status.

Key interpretation principles:

• WBC and its subtypes (Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Granulocytes): Indicate the nature of immune response — bacterial, viral, or allergic.

• RBC, HGB, and HCT: Reflect oxygen-carrying capacity and potential anemia.

• MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW: Describe red cell size, hemoglobin content, and uniformity.

• PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, P-LCC, P-LCR: Show platelet activity, production, and clotting efficiency.

• Ratios like NLR and PLR: Provide additional information about systemic inflammation or stress.

Accurate interpretation requires evaluating results alongside clinical findings, hydration status, nutritional factors, and the cat’s medical history.

Factors That Affect Feline Hemogram Results

Hemogram values in cats can vary due to both physiological and external factors. Understanding these influences ensures accurate interpretation of laboratory results.

1. Stress and Handling

Stress triggers the release of adrenaline and cortisol, leading to temporary increases in WBC (especially neutrophils) and blood glucose, while reducing lymphocyte counts. This “stress leukogram” occurs even in otherwise healthy cats during transportation or handling.

2. Dehydration

Loss of body fluids reduces plasma volume, making parameters such as HCT, HGB, and RBC appear higher than normal. It may also elevate total protein and urea concentrations.

3. Feeding and Fasting

Recent meals, particularly those high in fat, can alter serum appearance (lipemia) and affect measurement accuracy. Fasting for 8–10 hours before sampling provides more reliable results.

4. Medications

Drugs such as corticosteroids, antibiotics, or chemotherapy agents influence blood cell counts. Steroids increase WBC, while cytotoxic drugs can suppress bone marrow activity.

5. Sample Collection and Storage

Improper handling, delays in processing, or clotted samples can distort results by causing red cell rupture (hemolysis) or platelet aggregation.

6. Age, Breed, and Physiological State

• Kittens often show higher lymphocyte counts.

• Older cats may display lower RBC and HCT due to reduced bone marrow efficiency.

• Pregnancy and hormonal cycles can slightly alter blood volume and distribution.

Environmental and biological variability must always be considered when interpreting feline hemogram data.

When Is a Hemogram Recommended for Cats?

A hemogram is one of the most frequently performed diagnostic tests in feline medicine. It is used for both routine health monitoring and disease investigation.

Common Indications:

1. Routine wellness exams – Even healthy cats should undergo annual hemogram screening to establish baseline values.

2. Pre-anesthetic evaluation – Performed before any surgical procedure to assess infection, anemia, and clotting ability.

3. Suspected infection or inflammation – Used when fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite is present.

4. Chronic disease management – Essential in monitoring conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism.

5. Anemia and blood loss – Evaluates the severity and cause of decreased red cell mass.

6. Parasite infestations – Detects blood-borne parasites or immune responses to external parasites.

7. Post-treatment monitoring – Tracks the cat’s response to medications or therapy.

Regular hemogram testing provides early detection of abnormalities and helps maintain optimal feline health throughout life.

Conclusion: Hemogram Values as the Silent Indicators of Feline Health

The feline hemogram (Complete Blood Count) is a cornerstone of veterinary diagnostics. It translates microscopic cellular data into meaningful insight about a cat’s immune defense, oxygen transport, and blood-clotting systems.

Each parameter reveals a specific aspect of physiology:

• White blood cells (WBC) represent immune activity and infection control.

• Red blood cells (RBC, HGB, HCT) reflect oxygen delivery and tissue health.

• Platelet indices (PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, P-LCC, P-LCR) show clotting efficiency and bone marrow performance.

• Calculated ratios (NLR, PLR) integrate multiple systems to indicate inflammation or stress levels.

Routine hemogram testing allows for early detection of disease, accurate monitoring of therapy, and long-term tracking of overall health.Because blood cells respond quickly to internal changes, the hemogram serves as the silent but reliable voice of feline well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Feline Hemogram (Complete Blood Count)

What is a feline hemogram?

A feline hemogram, or Complete Blood Count (CBC), is a laboratory test that measures and evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a cat’s blood. It provides vital information about overall health, infection, anemia, and immune function.

Why is a hemogram important for cats?

Because blood cells react quickly to illness, a hemogram helps detect diseases at early stages — before visible symptoms appear. It’s essential for evaluating infections, anemia, inflammation, and clotting ability.

When should a hemogram be performed on a cat?

It is recommended during annual check-ups, before surgery, when a cat seems ill, or when monitoring ongoing treatment for chronic conditions.

How is blood collected for a cat’s hemogram?

Blood is typically drawn from the cephalic vein (front leg) or saphenous vein (hind leg) using a small sterile needle and placed into an anticoagulant tube.

Does a feline hemogram require fasting?

Yes. Fasting for 8–10 hours ensures clear serum and accurate test results, as recent meals may interfere with blood measurements.

How long does a hemogram take to process?

Modern automated analyzers can produce results within 15–30 minutes after sample collection.

What conditions can a hemogram detect in cats?

It can identify infections, anemia, inflammation, immune disorders, parasitic diseases, dehydration, and blood-clotting abnormalities.

What does a high WBC count mean in cats?

An increased white blood cell count (leukocytosis) usually indicates bacterial infection, inflammation, or stress.

What does a low WBC count mean in cats?

A decreased white cell count (leukopenia) is commonly associated with viral infections such as FeLV, FIV, or bone marrow suppression.

What causes low RBC levels in cats?

Low red blood cell counts indicate anemia, which may result from blood loss, nutritional deficiencies, parasites, or chronic illness.

What is considered a normal hematocrit (HCT) in cats?

The normal range is 30–45%, showing the proportion of red cells to total blood volume.

What is hemoglobin (HGB) and why is it important?

Hemoglobin is the iron-containing protein that binds oxygen inside red blood cells. Adequate hemoglobin is essential for tissue oxygenation and energy metabolism.

What causes anemia in cats?

Anemia can result from blood loss, iron deficiency, chronic disease, kidney failure, or parasite infections that damage red cells.

What are platelets and why are they important?

Platelets are tiny cell fragments that help blood clot and repair tissue damage. Low platelet numbers may lead to bleeding, while high counts indicate inflammation or recovery after injury.

What does MPV measure in cats?

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) shows the average size of platelets. Large platelets are newly produced, while smaller ones are older or less active.

What does NLR indicate in a feline hemogram?

The Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) is used to evaluate immune response balance and stress levels. High NLR suggests bacterial infection or systemic inflammation.

What is PLR and what does it represent?

The Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) measures the relationship between clotting activity and immune status. It increases during inflammation and chronic disease.

Can stress change hemogram results in cats?

Yes. Stress can temporarily raise WBC and glucose levels while lowering lymphocyte counts due to hormone release.

Do medications affect hemogram readings?

Corticosteroids, chemotherapy agents, and antibiotics can alter blood cell counts by affecting immune or bone marrow activity.

Can a hemogram detect dehydration in cats?

Yes. Dehydration elevates RBC, HGB, and HCT levels because plasma volume decreases while cell concentration rises.

What is considered a normal platelet count in cats?

Typically between 300,000 and 800,000 per microliter (µL) of blood.

Is a feline hemogram painful or dangerous?

No. It is a simple, minimally invasive procedure involving a small blood sample, and most cats tolerate it well.

How often should a cat have a hemogram done?

Healthy cats should have a hemogram once a year, while those with chronic diseases may need testing every 3–6 months.

Can a cat have normal hemogram results but still be sick?

Yes. Some conditions, particularly early or localized diseases, may not yet affect blood cell counts, so further testing (biochemistry, imaging) may be needed.

Can a hemogram help monitor treatment progress?

Yes. Repeating the test over time shows how the body responds to therapy, revealing improvements or complications early.

Sources

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

• IDEXX Laboratories – Veterinary Hematology Reference Guide

• Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Clinical Pathology Department

• Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Map Link: https://share.google/XPP6L1V6c1EnGP3Oc