GLUCOSE, FASTING

Description

Fasting Blood Glucose Test for Dogs & Cats

The Fasting Blood Glucose test measures your pet’s blood sugar level after a period of food withholding (typically 8–12 hours). This test provides a more accurate baseline blood glucose reading than a random test, minimizing the effect of recent food intake on blood sugar levels. It is one of the key diagnostic tests used to confirm diabetes mellitus in dogs and cats and is essential for monitoring blood glucose control in diabetic pets.

Why Is This Test Important?

Fasting glucose testing eliminates postprandial (after-meal) glucose spikes, giving a more accurate reflection of the body’s resting glucose metabolism. In dogs, fasting blood glucose greater than 200 mg/dL is indicative of diabetes mellitus. In cats, stress hyperglycemia can complicate interpretation — multiple fasting measurements or a fructosamine test may be needed for a definitive diagnosis. The normal fasting blood glucose in both dogs and cats is approximately 75–120 mg/dL.

When Is This Test Recommended?

• Diabetes mellitus diagnosis and monitoring
• Pets showing increased thirst, urination, and weight loss
• Pre-surgical bloodwork
• Monitoring for pets on steroid medications or other diabetogenic drugs
• Evaluation of suspected hypoglycemia after fasting
• Routine senior pet wellness bloodwork

Understanding Your Results

A fasting blood glucose above 200 mg/dL in dogs or persistently above 270 mg/dL in cats (with clinical signs) strongly suggests diabetes mellitus. Hypoglycemia (fasting glucose <60 mg/dL) may indicate insulinoma, liver disease, or excessive insulin dosing in known diabetics. Results should be interpreted alongside clinical signs, urinalysis, and fructosamine levels for a complete picture.

Preparation Required

Your pet should be fasted for 8–12 hours before sample collection. Water intake is permitted. Please inform our team of any medications your pet is receiving.

At-Home Sample Collection Service

At Home Petcare provides fasting blood glucose testing at your home in Hyderabad. Our trained veterinary professionals visit at the scheduled time, collect the blood sample, and deliver accurate results digitally. Expert guidance on next steps is provided.