BICARBONATE

Description

Bicarbonate (CO2) Blood Test for Dogs & Cats | At Home Petcare

The Bicarbonate (CO2) blood test measures the level of bicarbonate in your pet’s blood to assess acid-base balance. It is a critical marker for detecting metabolic acidosis or alkalosis — conditions that can arise from kidney disease, diabetes, severe vomiting, dehydration, and toxin ingestion. At Home Petcare provides this test at your doorstep in Hyderabad, with results in 24–48 hours.

What Is the Bicarbonate Test?

Bicarbonate (HCO3⁻) is the body’s primary buffer against acid. The serum CO2 test on a chemistry panel reflects bicarbonate concentration and helps evaluate your pet’s metabolic status. While it does not replace a full blood gas analysis, it is a valuable screening tool included in routine blood panels.

Why Is It Ordered?

Indications for Dogs

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI)
• Suspected ethylene glycol (antifreeze) toxicity
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea causing electrolyte imbalance
• Monitoring metabolic acidosis treatment response
• Routine senior wellness bloodwork

Indications for Cats

• Acute or chronic kidney disease (bicarbonate deficiency found in ~45% of CKD cats)
• Suspected metabolic acidosis
• Post-surgical or critical care monitoring
• Chronic weight loss with poor appetite

Normal Reference Ranges

• Dogs: 18–26 mEq/L (values below 22 mEq/L suggest deficiency)
• Cats: 14–22 mEq/L (values below 16 mEq/L indicate deficiency per IRIS guidelines)

Values vary slightly between laboratories. Always interpret in conjunction with other electrolytes and clinical signs.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Low Bicarbonate (Metabolic Acidosis)

• Kidney failure (most common cause in pets)
• Diabetes mellitus / DKA
• Antifreeze toxicity
• Severe diarrhea
• Lactic acidosis

High Bicarbonate (Metabolic Alkalosis)

• Prolonged vomiting
• Excessive diuretic use
• Adrenal gland disorders (hyperaldosteronism)

Sample Requirements

• Sample type: Venous blood (serum or plasma)
• Fasting: Not strictly required, but 4–6 hours preferred for accurate results
• Volume: 1–2 mL
• Handling: Sample should be processed promptly to avoid CO2 loss and false-low readings

Turnaround Time

Results are delivered within 24–48 hours of sample collection. Our veterinary team collects the sample at your home in Hyderabad and sends it to an accredited diagnostic laboratory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bicarbonate test the same as a CO2 test?

Yes. The serum CO2 test on a chemistry panel primarily reflects bicarbonate levels, as over 90% of CO2 in the blood is carried as bicarbonate.

Can this test be done alone?

It can, but it is most informative when part of a complete chemistry panel or electrolyte panel alongside sodium, potassium, and chloride.

Is this test available for both dogs and cats?

Yes, we test both dogs and cats. Reference ranges differ between species, and our veterinary pathologists interpret results accordingly.

Is home blood collection safe for my pet?

Absolutely. Our trained veterinary professionals perform gentle, stress-free blood collection at your home, avoiding the anxiety of clinic visits.

What if my pet’s bicarbonate is low?

Your vet may recommend additional tests (blood gas, urine analysis, kidney function markers) and may initiate treatment such as fluid therapy or sodium bicarbonate supplementation.