Haematology is the most sensitive indicator or ‘deviation from health’ and therefore is an important part of the pre-anaesthetic evaluation in dogs and cats. We will cover the key aspects and warning signs that could impact anaesthesia with the goal of ensuring optimal outcomes in surgical patients.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Complete haematology is an important component of pre-anaesthetic evaluation.
2. Reticulocyte number and quality provide valuable information when evaluating anaemic and non-anaemic patients.
3. A 6-part white blood cell differential is critical in identifying systemic inflammation/infection or stress.
4. Platelet number and function should be accurately determined in all patients undergoing anaesthesia to avoid bleeding complications.
5. Haematology should be evaluated with serum biochemistries and urinalysis to provide the most thorough pre-anaesthetic assessment.