Cats with Anaemia
Cats with Anaemia
Causes and Symptoms
Cats with anaemia have excessive blood loss or poor red cell production. For example, when a cat is involved in a serious accident, the rapid loss of blood will cause the body to produce extra red blood cells at a faster rate. This may not occur with all cats and it is at this point that anaemia sets in.
The Causes
Unbeknown to many, there are many causes of anaemia in cats. These include:
- Trauma leading to major haemorrhaging,
- Hookworm,
- Coccidian infestation,
- Ulceration,
- External parasites such as flea or lice.
The Symptoms
If you feel that your cat may have anaemia, keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Excessive weight loss,
- Tachypnea (Rapid breathing and pulse) ,
- Sleeping more than usual,
- Loss of appetite,
- Heart murmur,
- Black or tar-like stools.
The Treatment
For cats with acute anaemia, a blood transfusion may be needed. If not, a cat may be administered with erythropoietin (a hormone produced by the kidneys). This hormone encourages the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
In some cats with anaemia the an underlying illness or parasite may have caused the anaemia, your cat may then be prescribed antibiotics or anti-parasite medication. In severe cases, your cat may require surgery or chemotrhepy to cure cancer
