Laboratory Assessment of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Obtaining a minimum laboratory database consisting of complete blood count and serum biochemistry panel with electrolytes is an essential first step in assessing dogs and cats with gastrointestinal signs. The diagnosis of chronic gastrointestinal disease in dogs and cats requires an integrated approach, incorporating patient history, clinical presentation, physical examination, imaging, and sequential diagnostic investigations. Expanding the minimum laboratory database with tests evaluating gastrointestinal function and inflammation, such as serum cobalamin and fecal calprotectin, enhances assessment of gastrointestinal health, aids in ruling out differential or concurrent conditions, and supports a systematic diagnostic strategy. A variety of functional and inflammatory biomarkers are available for dogs and cats and can provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic insights, especially when used in combination. Looking ahead, the development of additional biomarkers, such as genomic markers, and the use of algorithms integrating biomarker panels represent promising advances toward individualized management of gastrointestinal disease in small animals.