Anemia is a dangerous illness that affects cats and is often brought on by an underlying medical issue that needs prompt attention. A lack of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood is known as anemia. The most prevalent type of blood cell in the body is the red blood cell, primarily responsible for delivering oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs.
The reduction in red blood cells in an anemic cat causes the organs to get less oxygen. This drop in oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs might cause organ damage and failure. Anemia is highly hazardous and potentially fatal.
Anemia in Cats
Anemia may be a short-term issue or a chronic ailment that lasts only one instance. Additionally, anemia can range in severity from moderate with no apparent clinical indications to life-threatening. As a result, cat anemia’s severity and underlying causes affect how the condition is treated.
Types
Red blood cell loss, destruction, or insufficient production all contribute to anemia, characterized by a decrease in red blood cells. Regenerative and non-regenerative anemias are the two types that can be observed in our feline friends.
When regenerative anemia develops, the bone marrow responds correctly by attempting to make additional red blood cells to replenish the ones that have been destroyed. Acute or abrupt blood loss resulting from an accident, parasites, an infection, or a significant disease causes regenerative anemia (such as cancer). Younger cats are more frequently affected by this type of anemia.
Kidney failure is the leading cause of non-regenerative anemia in cats. Anemia develops when your cat’s body cannot replace red blood cells as quickly as it uses them due to malfunctioning kidneys. Veterinary radiology services in Upland provide diagnostic imaging and interpretation to diagnose various medical conditions and tailor treatment plans.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs of anemia your cat exhibits will depend on how severe, long-lasting, and the underlying cause of the sickness. Lethargy, shortness of breath, or decreased appetite are some signs of anemia in most typical cats.
In more severe cases, your cat may exhibit white or pale gums, an elevated heart rate, or weakness. Visit your vet as soon as possible for an evaluation if your cat exhibits any symptoms.
Diagnostic Testing
Reduced red blood cell counts in a blood sample taken from the cat serve as proof of anemia. It will be easier to identify the most likely underlying cause of the anemia if it is known whether it is regenerative or non-regenerative. Additional tests are frequently required to pinpoint the precise cause of the various types of anemia because there are so many potential underlying causes. Visit an in-house lab and pet pharmacy to obtain results quickly so that your vet can diagnose your pet’s condition and start treatment immediately.
Treatment
Anemia will be treated both symptomatically and supportively. When the anemia is severe, supportive therapy may involve blood transfusions, which can be life-saving surgery. Knowing the blood groups of the donor and recipient is crucial in cats, just as it is in humans, to ensure that the blood is compatible.
Several therapies may be applied depending on the underlying cause of the anemia. The course of treatment for your cat will depend on the underlying reason, the severity, and other aspects of your cat’s general health.
Prevention
The best way to prevent anemia is to avoid the factors that cause it whenever feasible. One strategy to help prevent anemia is to use year-round parasite control drugs to shield your pet from fleas, ticks, and worms. A nutritious diet and keeping poisonous items out of your pet’s reach can also help prevent anemia from occurring.
