Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) in veterinary medicine refers to the practice of conducting diagnostic tests and analyses on animals at or near the location of the patient, such as in a veterinary clinic, on a farm, or in a field setting. POCT in veterinary medicine is similar to its counterpart in human medicine, offering the advantage of rapid and immediate diagnostic information that can guide treatment decisions. This approach is particularly valuable in veterinary care because it minimizes stress on the animal and often leads to quicker decisions for treatment.

Common examples of POCT in veterinary medicine include:

1. Blood Tests: Hematology and blood chemistry analyses provide valuable insights into an animal’s overall health, organ function, and blood-related conditions.

2. Blood Gas Analysis: Monitoring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which is critical for animals in distress or undergoing surgery.

3. Infectious Disease Testing: Rapid tests for diseases like parvovirus in dogs, feline leukemia, heartworm infection, and various other infectious diseases in different animal species.

4. Fecal Examinations: To diagnose and monitor intestinal parasites in animals.

5. Urinalysis: To check for kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and other urinary system conditions.

6. Pregnancy Tests: To confirm pregnancy in livestock and companion animals.

7. Glucose Monitoring: Vital for managing diabetic pets.

8. Point-of-Care Imaging: Portable ultrasound devices, radiography (X-rays), and endoscopy for on-site diagnostic imaging.

POCT in veterinary medicine is particularly beneficial for veterinarians working with a diverse range of animals, including companion animals (such as dogs and cats), livestock, and exotic or wildlife species. It allows for faster diagnosis, immediate decision-making, and timely treatment, which is crucial for the health and well-being of animals in various healthcare scenarios. Additionally, it reduces the need to transport animals to distant laboratories for testing, which can be stressful and impractical in many cases.