29 Sep, 2025 Veterinary

Learn tips to improve platelet accuracy in feline samples

This article summarizes tips and pointers on how to improve the platelet count in cats using the Exigo™ H400.

Cat in a lab setting getting ready for a blood sample

Measuring PLT in cats

Learn how to improve platelet accuracy in feline blood samples and avoid common diagnostic errors in cats.

Blood sampling from a stressed or scared cat can be challenging. Veterinarians often face not only handling difficulties but also stress-related biological effects on blood cell populations. One such effect is platelet aggregation, which may lead to inaccurate results.

This article summarizes best practices and tips on how to optimize platelet count in cats using automated veterinary hematology analyzers.

 

Why PLT measurements in cats are hard

A common issue when analyzing platelet counts is the merging of the platelet (PLT) peak with the red blood cell (RBC) peak, obscuring the valley in between.

This issue can have several reasons, such as:

  • Variability in PLT size
  • Activation and aggregation of platelets
  • Presence of RBC fragments or microcytic RBCs.

Platelet size and variability differs between animal species. Cats have larger PLTs with
a greater variability in size (MPV 11–18.1 fL) as compared to dogs, pigs, and humans (MPV 7.6–8.3 fL).

This natural variation increases the risk that feline PLTs overlap with RBCs, leading to counting errors.

Cat on a laboratory bench

 

Issues with PLT measurements in cats

Platelet aggregation is a major source of error in feline platelet counts. The reactive nature of platelets means they can be stimulated to aggregate by many factors, including:

  • Adenosine diphosphate (ADP)
  • Serotonin (released from the platelets themselves)
  • Adrenalin
  • Collagen and thrombin

Cats are particularly prone to platelet aggregation due to their larger platelet size (releasing more ADP and serotonin) and their sensitivity to stress-related substances such as adrenalin.

When a blood sample contains a high degree of aggregation, fewer single platelets remain. This leads to a falsely low platelet count, also known as pseudo-thrombocytopenia.

 

Platelet count in cats

Pseudo-thrombocytopenia can also be EDTA-induced (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), an in vitro phenomenon where anti-platelet antibodies from the patient bind to EDTA-activated epitopes on the platelets.
This condition is a well-documented challenge in feline hematology and highlights the importance of proper sampling techniques and analyzer technology.

 

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Reliable Hematology for Veterinary Diagnostics

Exigo™ H400 – Accuracy You Can Trust in Feline Platelet Counts

When it comes to optimizing platelet count in cats, having the right technology makes all the difference. The Exigo™ H400 veterinary hematology analyzer is designed to deliver reliable results even in challenging feline samples, reducing errors caused by platelet aggregation and variability. With proven performance across species and user-friendly operation, it supports veterinarians and labs worldwide in making faster, more confident clinical decisions.

About Boule Diagnostics

Your Partner in Hematology Innovation

For more than six decades, Boule has been at the forefront of hematology, building on a legacy that began with Europe’s first automated cell counter. Today, we design and manufacture diagnostic systems, consumables, and custom OEM solutions trusted by veterinary clinics, laboratories, and distributors worldwide.

Our mission is simple: improving health for everyone, everywhere. With a proven history of innovation, reliable support, and a strong global partner network, Boule is the perfect partner to help you deliver accurate, efficient, and accessible blood diagnostics.