Abstract
Hematological parameters serve as vital diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine, aiding in the identification of various diseases and metabolic conditions in animals. However, their reliability can be influenced by a multitude of factors, including storage conditions and duration. Pre-analytical errors, which account for up to 70% of laboratory diagnostic errors, primarily stem from issues such as sample collection, transportation, and storage. To address this, the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine-Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase conducted a survey to understand pre-analytical practices among human laboratories. Despite significant interest, diversity in monitoring approaches was noted among European laboratories. The complete blood count (CBC) stands as a frequently requested test by veterinarians, but its accuracy can be affected by pre-analytical variables like storage temperature and delay in analysis. This study aimed to assess the stability of hematological parameters in feline blood samples stored at different temperatures (4°C and 20°C) for up to 48 hours.
Ten clinically healthy cats were included in the study, with blood samples collected and analyzed immediately and at various time points over 48 hours. Results showed stability in hemoglobin concentration for 48 hours at both temperatures. However, RBC and PCV values increased significantly after 24 hours at 20°C. MCV, MCH, and MCHC values remained relatively stable over time, with minor fluctuations. Notably, WBC counts declined significantly after 48 hours at 20°C, while no significant changes were observed at 4°C. These findings underscore the importance of prompt analysis and appropriate storage conditions in maintaining the integrity of hematological parameters in veterinary practice.
In conclusion, blood samples from cats stored at 4°C remain reliable for up to 48 hours for most hematological parameters, while samples stored at 20°C are suitable for up to 24 hours. These findings provide valuable insights for veterinarians and laboratory professionals, emphasizing the need for standardized pre-analytical practices to ensure accurate diagnostic results in veterinary hematology.

Key words: Hematology parameters, Cat, Duration of storage, Storage temperature