Obtaining a Blood Sample from a Cat

Minimising stress during blood sample collection

Blood sample collection is an essential procedure for diagnosing and monitoring your cat’s health.

Keeping your cat calm during this process is vital, as stress can alter their physiology and affect the accuracy of the test results.

A quiet environment and gentle handling can help your cat feel more at ease, improving both the quality of the sample and the overall experience.

What happens when my cat has a blood sample taken?

Blood samples are typically collected from a vein in the cat’s leg or neck.

To ensure the cat’s comfort, a small patch of fur is clipped, and a local anaesthetic cream is applied to numb the area. Although the cream takes about 20 minutes to take effect, it significantly reduces the cat’s reaction during the procedure.

Once the area is numb, the cat is gently held while a needle is inserted into the vein. Most cats do not feel any pain due to the anaesthetic, and some may even be distracted by treats or food during the process.

A small amount of blood is drawn into one or more tubes for analysis. Afterwards, a small bandage may be applied to maintain pressure at the site, which can be removed at home unless already taken off by our staff.

Following a blood test

Your cat should not feel faint after a blood test. If sedation is used, they may experience slight wobbliness, but this is unrelated to the blood sample itself.

There are minimal risks associated with taking a blood sample.

For most cats, the procedure is not painful, and the most common side effect is mild bruising at the injection site, which may be more pronounced in older cats with blood pressure issues.

We will inform you of the expected timeline for your cat’s test results and will contact you as soon as they are available.

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

See All Stories

Lando’s long game with cryptococcus

Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.

Popeye coughs up the culprit

Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.

Ares takes a fracture in his stride

Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.

The road to recovery for Kuro

Kuro is a calm and dignified older cat who faced a challenging case of hyperthyroidism and early kidney changes.

Kikki’s transformation after I-131

Kikki is a gentle and resilient cat who came to CSS with a long-standing case of hyperthyroidism and significant heart changes.

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377

1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed