Zoetis Expands Vetscan OptiCell™ to Offer Cellular Hemoglobin Concentration Mean as First and Only Point-of-Care Hematology Analyzer

Zoetis has expanded the capabilities of its Vetscan OptiCell™ point-of-care hematology analyzer, making it the first and only device in its class to offer Cellular Hemoglobin Concentration Mean (CHCM) analysis for veterinary patients.

The advancement was announced through Zoetis’ official channels and builds upon the company’s existing suite of diagnostic tools designed for in-clinic use. Vetscan OptiCell™, which utilizes viscoelastic focusing and artificial intelligence to process complete blood count (CBC) samples, now includes CHCM as part of its standard output, enhancing the diagnostic depth available to veterinary clinicians without requiring additional steps or separate testing.

According to Zoetis, the addition of CHCM provides a more precise assessment of hemoglobin concentration within individual red blood cells, supporting better evaluation of anemia and related conditions in animals. This metric complements existing CBC parameters such as hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and red blood cell count, offering a more complete picture of erythrocyte function and oxygen-carrying capacity.

The Vetscan OptiCell™ system operates using a cartridge-based design that minimizes hands-on time and eliminates the need for liquid quality controls. Its internal monitoring system performs automated checks across pre-analytical, reagent, hardware, and quality control functions to ensure consistent performance. These features were highlighted in earlier announcements regarding the analyzer’s launch, which emphasized minimal maintenance and streamlined workflow for veterinary clinics.

Zoetis first introduced Vetscan OptiCell™ in September 2024 as a cartridge-based, AI-powered hematology analyzer intended to deliver reference-lab quality results at the point of care. The device was subsequently showcased at the Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando in January 2025, with plans for initial installations in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. By September 2025, the analyzer became available in select European markets.

The integration of CHCM into Vetscan OptiCell™ aligns with Zoetis’ broader strategy to expand its connected diagnostics portfolio. The company promotes the use of Vetscan OptiCell™ alongside its Vetscan Imagyst® system, which provides AI-assisted blood smear analysis supported by expert pathology review when clinically indicated. Together, these tools are designed to offer a more comprehensive hematology evaluation within the clinic setting.

No financial terms, pricing details, or specific adoption metrics related to the CHCM update were disclosed in the available sources. The announcement focuses strictly on the technical expansion of the analyzer’s capabilities and its positioning as the first point-of-care hematology device to include this specific parameter.

As of the announcement date, Zoetis continues to position Vetscan OptiCell™ as a key innovation in its diagnostic lineup, emphasizing accuracy, efficiency, and integration with complementary tools to support improved patient outcomes and clinic workflow.