Zoetis Announces First AI Analyser Update

Zoetis Inc is the world’s leading animal health company and announced the expansion of capabilities of Vetscan OptiCell, its cartridge-based, artificial intelligence-powered haematology analyser, marking the next step in the platform’s evolution.  

With this update, Vetscan OptiCell has become the first point-of-care haematology analyser to offer cellular haemoglobin concentration mean (CHCM) – a parameter previously available only in reference labs. CHCM’s addition provides clinicians with a direct measurement of the average haemoglobin concentration within individually analysed red blood cells, while PCT provides the volume percentage of blood occupied by platelets. 

According to Towards Healthcare, the AI in animal health market is projected to experience significant growth, with estimates suggesting the market size will increase from USD 2.24 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 14.24 billion by 2035, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.84% from 2026 to 2035. Growth is driven by the increase in demand for pet care and health services, which is a significant growth factor. Advancements and Improvements in AI algorithms and methodologies are enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. These technologies enable real-time monitoring and data collection, enhancing health parameter tracking. 

Extended Parameter 

Zoetis’ president of global diagnostics, Abhay Nayak, said, “This latest progression in Vetscan OptiCell’s capabilities further advances the impact that Zoetis diagnostic innovation brings to veterinary teams in providing pets and pet owners with the best possible care. Expanded parameters such as CHCM and PCT deliver deeper insights at the point of care and reflect our broader portfolio strategy to deliver a robust pipeline of impactful diagnostics that strengthen clinical decision-making.” 

Parameters such as CHCM and PCT deliver deeper insights at the point of care and reflect our broader portfolio strategy to deliver a robust pipeline of impactful diagnostics that strengthen clinical decision-making. 

OptiCell is “the most accurate CBC machine I’ve used.” 

Dr Rory Cowlam, Clinical Director at Pickles & Co in London, UK, and member of the Veterinary Diagnostics Innovation Council, said OptiCell gives our vets more confidence and increases our offerings to clients on a day-to-day basis. From both a clinic and a patient point of view, the information that we can get at the point of care, the speed at which we get it, and the accuracy of the data is second to none. 

Dr. Sue Ettinger, a veterinary cancer specialist based in New York, using the platform, said“Vetscan OptiCell is the most accurate CBC machine I’ve used. The VEF technology reads through platelet clumps and gives reliable counts, even in cases like lymphocytosis. Being able to trust that first CBC and not having to send it out to a reference lab for confirmation means I can talk to pet owners right away and make timely decisions in the room, saving time and expense.” 

A recent report by Towards Healthcare highlights that AI in the animal health market is witnessing growth due to the focus on AI algorithms to interpret imaging (X-rays, MRIs) and identify diseases faster and more accurately. Also, a massive opportunity lies in using AI for livestock monitoring, including wearable sensors for tracking animal behavior, health, and location, reducing disease outbreaks, and optimizing nutrition. The application of AI to develop new veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and treatment protocols is a growing niche.