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How To Collect a Blood Sample for Cattle Testing

Mar 17, 2023 | Educational Blog

Supplies Needed:

  • Vacutainer® Vial
  • Double-sided needle
  • Needle holder

Be sure to check which type of vial is required for your desired test type.

Red Top Blood Tube

Red-top vials

Purple Top Blood Tube

Purple-top vials

Step 1

Step 1:

  • Screw needle into needle holder
  • Insert the Vacutainer vial into the holder
  • DO NOT puncture the vial stopper
Step 2

Step 2:

  • Lift the tail straight up and clean area
  • Find the midline groove 4 to 6 inches from the base of the tail
  • Insert the needle about ¼ inch into the groove, perpendicular to the underside of the tail
Step 3-4

Step 3:

  • Engage the vacuum by pressing the vial up puncturing the stopper
  • If blood does not flow, carefully redirect the needle
  • DO NOT remove the needle from the tail

Step 4:

  • Once blood begins to flow maintain needle position
  • Collect a minimum of 4cc of blood
Step 5

Step 5:

  • Disengage the vial from the holder BEFORE removing needle from the tail
Step 6

Step 6:

  • Clearly label vials with animal identification
  • Fill out a sample submission form

Step 7:

  • Keep vials at room temperature to allow clotting (1 to 2 hours)
  • Once clotted, keep samples refrigerated until submitted to the lab