Accurate diagnostic information is the foundation of good veterinary care. At Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic in Centennial, we offer a full range of in-house and referral diagnostic services for dogs and cats. From blood panels and digital radiographs to abdominal ultrasound and specialized testing, our diagnostic capabilities allow us to assess your pet’s health quickly and guide the most appropriate next steps. Call (303) 779-1170 to discuss which diagnostics are right for your pet.
Blood Tests and CBC for Dogs and Cats
A complete blood count and blood chemistry panel provide a detailed picture of your pet’s overall health. We evaluate red and white blood cell counts, organ function markers, electrolytes, and glucose levels. Blood work is performed at wellness exams, before surgical procedures, and when your pet is unwell. In-house results are available within a short wait, allowing us to discuss findings and next steps during the same appointment. Annual blood work for senior dogs and cats is one of the most valuable early detection tools available.
Digital X-Ray for Dogs and Cats
Digital radiography provides clear, high-resolution images of your pet’s bones, chest, and abdomen. At Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic, we use digital radiography to evaluate orthopedic injuries, assess heart and lung size, identify foreign bodies, and screen for masses and organ changes. Images are available immediately, and we review them with you at the appointment. In cases requiring specialist interpretation, images are sent digitally for radiologist review, with results typically available within twenty-four hours.
Abdominal Ultrasound for Dogs and Cats
Abdominal ultrasound provides real-time images of the organs inside the abdomen, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes. Unlike radiographs, ultrasound shows the internal structure of soft tissue organs, which makes it particularly valuable for evaluating masses, fluid accumulation, and organ disease. Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic offers in-house abdominal ultrasound for dogs and cats. For cases requiring specialist-level cardiac or abdominal imaging, we coordinate with board-certified internists and radiologists.
Urinalysis and Urine Culture Testing
Urinalysis evaluates the physical and chemical properties of urine, including concentration, pH, protein levels, glucose, cells, and crystals. It is an essential part of kidney assessment, urinary tract infection screening, and diabetic monitoring. Urine culture testing identifies specific bacteria causing a urinary tract infection and determines which antibiotic products are most appropriate. Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic performs in-house urinalysis and sends cultures to the external laboratory for full sensitivity analysis. Results are typically available within two to three business days.
Fecal Testing and Parasite Screening
A fecal test screens for intestinal parasites including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, coccidia, Giardia, and tapeworm segments. Many pets with intestinal parasites show no obvious signs. Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic recommends at least one fecal test per year for adult dogs and cats, and two to four tests during the first year of a puppy’s or kitten’s life. Fresh stool samples provide the most accurate results. We can provide a collection container at your request.
Biopsy and Histopathology
Biopsy involves collecting a tissue sample from a mass, organ, or lesion and submitting it to a veterinary pathologist for analysis. Histopathology provides the most definitive assessment of a tissue sample, confirming whether a mass is benign or malignant and identifying the specific type of cells involved. At Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic, biopsy histopathology is available as a standalone service and is routinely performed on masses removed during surgery. Results are available within five to ten business days and are reviewed with you at a follow-up visit or by phone.
Cytology, Allergy Testing, and Specialized Panels
Cytology, including fine needle aspiration and ear and skin cytology, provides rapid assessment of cells from masses, ear discharge, and skin lesions. Serum allergy testing identifies environmental allergens contributing to chronic skin and ear disease. We also offer FIV and FeLV testing for cats, pancreatitis panels for dogs and cats, Addison and Cushing disease testing, cardiac ProBNP panels, and ECG evaluation. For pets requiring echocardiography, this service is provided by a visiting veterinary specialist. Pre-booking is required. Please call (303) 779-1170 to discuss scheduling.
How quickly are in-house blood test results available?
In-house blood results at Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic are typically available within thirty to sixty minutes, allowing us to discuss findings during the same appointment. For specialized panels sent to the external laboratory, results are usually available within one to three business days. We contact you as soon as results are received.
Does my healthy cat need annual blood work?
Annual blood work is valuable for cats of any age and becomes increasingly important for cats over seven years old, when kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes become more common. Many cats show no outward signs of these conditions until they are well advanced. Routine blood screening allows us to detect changes early and start supportive care at the most beneficial time.
What is the difference between cytology and histopathology?
Cytology evaluates individual cells collected by fine needle aspiration or swab and provides results quickly, often within the same visit. Histopathology examines a tissue sample and provides a more definitive assessment of the tissue architecture and cell type. For any mass removal surgery, we recommend submitting the tissue for histopathology to confirm the nature of the mass and guide follow-up care.
How do I collect a fecal sample for testing?
A fresh stool sample collected within twenty-four hours provides the most accurate results. A small amount of stool is all that is needed. We can provide a collection container at your request. Refrigerate the sample if you cannot bring it in right away, but do not freeze it. Bring the sample to your appointment, or drop it off in advance if you prefer.
Keep your dog or cat healthy year-round with preventive care from Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic in Centennial
