Anemia in cats is a serious condition that requires proper attention and treatment. This article will take an in-depth look at what anemia in cats is, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. By understanding and recognizing the early signs of anemia, cat owners can take the necessary preventive and treatment measures to keep their pets healthy.
What is Anemia in Cats?
Anemia is defined as a deficiency of red blood cells and hemoglobin (or both) in the blood. Red blood cells (RBCs) are the most common type of blood cell in the body and serve as the main transporters of oxygen to tissues and organs. When a cat is anemic, a decrease in the number of RBCs and/or hemoglobin will result in reduced oxygen flow to the organs. This decrease in oxygen to the tissues and organs can lead to organ damage and even failure. Anemia is very dangerous and can be life-threatening for cats.
Symptoms of Anemia in Cats
If your cat is suffering from anemia, the symptoms it exhibits will depend on the severity, duration and underlying cause of the disease.
Some of the most common symptoms of anemia in cats include:
Lethargy
Pale gums (sometimes yellow gums, which indicates jaundice)
Difficulty in breathing or breathing rapidly
Increased heart rate
Weakness or nausea
Decreased appetite
Causes of Anemia in Cats
Anemia is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells due to the loss, destruction, or underproduction of red blood cells. Anemia is not a disease in itself, but rather the result of a disease or condition in the body that causes anemia.
Diagnosis of Anemia in Cats
To diagnose anemia, and determine the underlying cause of your cat's condition, your veterinarian may recommend a number of tests based on your cat's symptoms. The most commonly used test is the Complete Blood Cell Count (CBC).
Anemia in FIP Cats
Anemia is common in cats when infected with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). B12 deficiency slows down the body's ability to generate new blood and accelerates the destruction of blood cells. When the B12 level drops, the cat becomes anemic. Once a cat becomes anemic, its ability to fight the FIP virus and other diseases decreases drastically.
In our experience, cats infected with FIP often develop symptoms of anemia. This is mostly true in cats that exhibit neurologic FIP symptoms. This is a complication of FIP in cats, where due to the lower than normal B12 levels in cats, the FIP virus transmits more quickly. In fact, because of the infection, the cat's ability to maintain adequate B12 levels in the body is reduced.
Treatment For Anemia In Cats
Once your cat is diagnosed with anemia, your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment schedule to cure the underlying cause of the anemia. Your cat's treatment depends on the cause of the disease, its severity, and your cat's overall health.
In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be required. You should talk to your veterinarian frequently to get a treatment plan that suits your cat's current condition. Remember that booking and treating anemia symptoms at an early stage will increase the chances of recovery and your cat's long-term health.
GS-441524 + Vitamin B12 for FIP Treatment
For cats diagnosed with FIP, we provide GS-441524 + Vitamin B12 which is able to stop the replication of the FIP virus and provide additional Vitamin B12 to the body to increase resistance to the virus. B12 promotes red blood cell synthesis (development and maintenance of red blood cells). Adequate levels of B12 are necessary to prevent anemia.
FIP is a serious disease, but early detection can help improve the chances of a positive outcome. If you have any questions or concerns about FIP and its treatment, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at WhatsApp or visit our Instagram. You can read the Complete Guide to Treating FIP Cats by clicking here.