Pet Cytology
Pet Cytology in Westwood & Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
Our pets mean the world to us. That’s why we show them love, play with them, and give them toys and treats. However, pets need regular trips to the veterinarian’s office if we want to keep them happy and healthy for years to come. Veterinarians provide preventative care as well as diagnostic care, which can aid in identifying diseases and conditions. One way to diagnose a pet’s condition is through cytology, which involves examining the cells.
At Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital in Westwood, NJ, and Pompton Lakes Animal Hospital in Pompton Lakes, NJ, we serve the Tri-State area with pet cytology services to correctly diagnose pets’ conditions and give pet owners peace of mind.
What Is Cytology?
Cytology is a branch of biology that involves cells. It deals with cells’ origins, function, structure, and pathology. In medicine, cytology tests are used to help diagnose diseases. Pet cytology is especially important because our furry friends are unable to communicate with us or their veterinary specialists. This means that identifying complications and conditions is more difficult when dealing with animals instead of human patients.
How Do Cytology Tests Work?
Pet cytology exams work much like biopsies and other diagnostic tests. However, they are less invasive and cause minimal to no pain for your pet. Veterinarians can get the necessary cells in several different ways, including:
Fine Needle Aspiration
This basic screening test helps collect a sample by inserting a needle into the target area. Cells are removed and undergo a microscopic examination. Fine needle aspiration is quick and virtually pain-free. Typically, it doesn’t require your pet to be sedated.
Skin Scraping
Another option veterinarians may pursue is to scrape cells off the skin. This process is helpful if the suspected condition has resulted in flaky skin.
Impression Smear
One of the least invasive testing methods there is, an impression smear is generally used if the animal has an exposed lesion. The veterinarian will take a glass microscope slide and press it against the area, allowing cell samples to be collected straight from the surface.
Swabs
Another simple technique is to use cotton-tipped swabs. The soft swabs are gentle and allow any discharge to be easily collected. This is mainly used on areas like the mouth, eyes, and nose, where the skin is moist and fluids can easily soak into the swab.
What Does Pet Cytology Test For?
Like many other medical tests, pet cytology can help diagnose a variety of diseases and conditions. The main thing veterinarians use cytology for is the assessment of skin masses. Whether your pet has a fatty tumor, a cyst, or an abscess, cytology can help determine the cause of the problem. Because they are often used to find out if a mass is cancerous, cytology tests are regularly recommended if pet owners notice any abnormalities.
These microscopic examinations are also useful in diagnosing diseases involving the internal organs. They can help veterinarians take a closer look at cells in the lungs, liver, kidneys, or lymph nodes. Cytology testing is also helpful when bodily fluids need to be further examined or if abnormal fluids have built up in the chest or abdomen and require further inspection.
How Our Veterinary Team Can Help
Reputable and knowledgeable veterinarians can use cytology to either define the underlying causes of your pet’s condition or rule out certain common and serious ailments. This test is especially helpful because of its minimally invasive techniques, helping pets and pet parents alike breathe easily. Our team has access to state-of-the-art technology, including microscopes for skin and ear cytology. We can help dogs, cats, and plenty of other animals get the care they need.
Make an Appointment with Us Today
Whether you’ve noticed a mass on your pet’s body or a change in their attitude, looking to our veterinarians at Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital and Pompton Lakes Animal Hospital is a smart choice. We’re located in Westwood and Pompton Lakes, NJ, and serve the Tri-State area. We have the technology and the expertise to help find out exactly what’s wrong. Our veterinary services include pet cytology, allowing our staff to make a quick and pain-free diagnosis. If you’re interested in making an appointment, contact us today.
Service Available At:
Westwood
- 346 Kinderkamack Rd.
Westwood, NJ 07675 - 201-885-5040
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM to 10 PM
Pompton
- 9 Cannonball Rd. Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
- 973-835-4774
- Monday – Thursday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Friday: 12 PM – 9 PMSaturday: 10 AM – 2 PMSunday: Closed