Independent veterinary care
Finding answers through appropriate investigations
Your vet may recommend laboratory tests or further investigation following an examination. Ironstone can discuss which tests are clinically appropriate, what results may tell us and expected costs before proceeding.
Care and treatment decisions are always based on an individual assessment. Contact the clinic to discuss your pet and confirm appointment availability.
Finding answers when your pet is unwell
When your pet is off their food, drinking more, losing weight or just not themselves, an examination is always the first step. Sometimes that tells us enough. Often, though, the most useful next step is a test that shows what is happening inside your pet. We recommend tests only when the result is likely to help your pet, and we explain why we are suggesting each one and what it costs before we go ahead.
We offer diagnostic tests for dogs, cats, rabbits and small furries.
Tests we can carry out
Blood tests check organ function, such as the kidneys and liver, along with blood cell counts and other markers. A pre-anaesthetic blood test is often recommended before planned surgery, especially for older pets.
Urine tests (urinalysis) help investigate kidney problems, urinary infections, diabetes and increased thirst. Our basic urine screen includes a dipstick test and measurement of specific gravity. Stool (faecal) tests help investigate diarrhoea, weight loss and suspected parasites.
Cytology means looking at cells under the microscope, for example from an ear swab or from a fine needle sample of a lump. Biopsies take a small piece of tissue for a more definitive diagnosis. We can also test for infectious diseases, hormone (endocrine) conditions such as thyroid or adrenal disease, and carry out tests to investigate lung problems.
What happens on the day
Your vet will discuss your pet's history, examine them and agree a plan with you, including the cost. Many blood and urine samples are quick to collect. Some tests need your pet to have fasted, or need a fresh urine or stool sample, so we will tell you how to prepare when you book. If you are collecting a urine sample at home, ask us for a clean sample pot, as kitchen containers can affect the result.
When the results are back, your vet will explain what they mean and talk through the next steps, whether that is treatment, monitoring, further tests or diagnostic imaging.
How tests fit with your pet's care
Tests are often part of a vet consultation for a new problem, regular monitoring of a long-term condition, or planning for pet surgery. For itchy skin or recurring ear problems, cytology and other tests form part of our dermatology care.
Monitoring long-term conditions
Tests are not only for when something new goes wrong. Pets with long-term conditions, such as kidney, liver, thyroid or hormonal problems, or those on some long-term medications, often need repeat blood or urine tests to check that treatment is working and the dose is still right. For older pets, your vet may suggest tests as part of a health check, because some conditions develop slowly and are easier to manage when caught early. In each case, your vet will explain how often testing is likely to be useful and what the results will help decide, so you can plan ahead.
Common questions
Does my pet need to fast before a blood test?
Not always; it depends on the test. We will tell you when you book.
Does pet insurance cover diagnostic tests?
Most policies cover tests relating to a new illness or injury, but check your own policy. We can help with insurance claim forms.
How much do tests cost?
Published test fees are shown below and on our vet prices page. Where a test has no listed price, your vet will give you an estimate first.
Why does my vet recommend more than one test?
Sometimes one result points to the next question. Your vet will explain what each test could tell you, and you can decide how to proceed.
Costs and estimates
Basic urine screen: £35.00
Including dipstick and measurement of specific gravity.
Cytology – ear swab: £30.00
Cytology – fine needle aspiration: £40.00
Diagnostic Tests: Contact us for pricing
The cost of diagnostic tests will always be quoted based on the tests carried out.
Pre-surgical/pre-anaesthetic blood test: £65.00
Individual estimates can vary depending on your pet and the care required. Please confirm your estimate with the practice before treatment.