Can anyone please tell me what is the difference between a pre-mate blood test and a progesterone blood test.

Thanks

Barbara

Hi
pre mate tests are usually test kits - vet draws blood sample which is used to complete the in house test kit. Colour changes are matched agains a chart to estimate optimum breeding time. They are fairly accurate if kits are stored, prepaired and used as per instructions. Ok for the typical bitch but I would not opt to use them for bitches with a history of fertility problems.

The serum progesterone blood test cannot generally be tested at a GP vets practice as equipment to test the blood is specialist  (if your vet is also a reproduction specialist and undertake AI they will probably have in house testing available) . Most GP vets will draw blood and send off to a laboratory, this is a very accurate test that gives a definate progesterone concentration level, lab report usually available the same day (AM blood draw Pm test result). Lab report details progesterone level and gives date for retest and/or detials of optimum date for natural breeding. This test is essential if AI is planned or if you are planning to visit overseas studs where timing is critical, would also opt for this test with difficult bitches. 

I opt for Serum Progesterone testing .. at my vets the cost is more or less the same as the in house test kits but gives a far more accurate result.  

Karen   

Hi klb
Thank you for explaining that, I'm no longer confused.

Barbara

Also some people call Vaginal cytology a premate test.  This is where the vet looks at the cells in the vaginal tract which change during the course of a season and can be helpful in predicting a good mating time, but not as accurate as either the premate test kits or proper blood Progesterone assay.