Cats Anemia: Symptoms, Prevention, and Care Tips

What is Anemia?

Anemia refers to a condition where there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the peripheral blood vessels. A blood test can reveal a reduction in the number of red blood cells (RBCs), or a lower than normal hematocrit (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, or red blood cell count.

Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream, where they circulate for about two months. As they age or become damaged, they are removed from the blood. Their components are then recycled to form new red blood cells. The number of red blood cells can decrease due to a reduction in their production or an increase in their destruction. Hemoglobin transports oxygen to the body's cells and tissues, and anemia patients may experience symptoms related to oxygen deficiency.

Causes of Feline Anemia?

Cats can suffer from anemia due to various factors, ranging from simple bleeding to more severe infectious diseases. The most common causes of feline anemia include:

① Trauma or bleeding: If your pet has been struck or involved in an accident, it may have lost a significant amount of blood or suffered internal bleeding.

② External parasites: Fleas and lice can cause cats to lose a substantial amount of blood, leading to anemia.

③ Nutrient deficiencies in diet: Some cat foods may lack iron, trace elements, essential fatty acids, or vitamins, which are necessary for the incorporation of red blood cells into the blood. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with experts before purchasing pet food and to follow their advice. Here, we provide tips on how to prepare healthy homemade cat food for your pet.

④ Severe diseases: Feline leukemia, infectious peritonitis, or kidney failure can lead to the loss of red blood cells, so if you suspect your cat has anemia, it is essential to bring it to a veterinarian for a thorough diagnosis.

Infectious Anemia: In addition to these causes, there are some infectious agents that can lead to feline anemia. Hemoplasma mycoplasma, transmitted through fleas or bites from other cats, can cause up to 30% of infected pets to die without proper treatment.

Symptoms of Feline Anemia?

Cats with anemia may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, pale mucous membranes, weight loss, increased respiratory rate, and a rapid heartbeat. In severe cases, difficulty breathing may occur, and generally, the body temperature remains normal. For more detailed information on the symptoms of feline anemia, click here.

How to Prevent Feline Anemia?

Prevention is better than cure, and cat owners need to be vigilant in their daily care:

1. Feed a balanced and nutritious diet to ensure your pet consumes enough iron, vitamin B complex, amino acids, and other essential nutrients.

2. Regularly deworm and vaccinate your cat, and avoid feeding unknown or unverified nutritional supplements or medications.

3. Take protective measures to keep your cat away from external dangers as much as possible.

Prevention is key to avoiding any disease! The most important aspect of feline anemia prevention is diet. Feeding your cat more bloodbuilding foods is essential, but this method is slow. You can also consider giving your cat Modiseng Xuegao, a bloodbuilding agent that not only supplements iron and nourishes the blood but also protects the liver and supplements vitamins and minerals, making it the best rapid bloodbuilding agent for cats.