Anemia
Anemia: a low red blood cell count. It can result from blood loss, destruction of red blood cells, or a decrease in red blood cell production.
A decrease in red blood cell production is also called a non-regenerative anemia because the animal is unable to generate sufficient replacement red blood cells (red blood cells are normally produced on a continuous basis to replace those that degrade naturally over time).
In a regenerative anemia, the bone marrow responds by increasing production of red blood cells to replace those that are lost or destroyed (though sometimes the bone marrow can't keep up).
"Anemia" by itself does not define a disease, but is a result of an underlying disease process. If anemia is present, it is very important to sort out the underlying cause and institute appropriate treatment.
Signs of Anemia in Dogs and Cats
Possible Causes of Anemia in Dogs and Cats
There are many possible causes of anemia, ranging from inadequate iron in the diet to infectious diseases and many other medical conditions (including some toxins).
Further information on some causes of anemia:
Pronunciation: ah-nee'-mee-ah
Please note: this article has been provided for informational purposes only. If your pet is showing any signs of illness, please consult a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
A decrease in red blood cell production is also called a non-regenerative anemia because the animal is unable to generate sufficient replacement red blood cells (red blood cells are normally produced on a continuous basis to replace those that degrade naturally over time).
In a regenerative anemia, the bone marrow responds by increasing production of red blood cells to replace those that are lost or destroyed (though sometimes the bone marrow can't keep up).
"Anemia" by itself does not define a disease, but is a result of an underlying disease process. If anemia is present, it is very important to sort out the underlying cause and institute appropriate treatment.
Signs of Anemia in Dogs and Cats
- Pale mucous membranes the gums, insides of the mouth, and the conjunctiva (membranes around the eye) will often appear noticeably paler than usual with anemia. Depending on the cause of anemia, these membranes may also have a yellowish tinge.
- Weakness and lethargy are also common signs, due to a decrease in the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood.
- Decreased appetite
- Increased heart and respiratory rates
Possible Causes of Anemia in Dogs and Cats
There are many possible causes of anemia, ranging from inadequate iron in the diet to infectious diseases and many other medical conditions (including some toxins).
Further information on some causes of anemia:
- Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)
- Feline Infectious Anemia - Hemobartonella
- Hookworms
- Whipworms
- Onion toxicity
- Babesiosis
- Ehrlichiosis
- Fleas (severe infestations)
- Cancer
- Onion Toxicity
Pronunciation: ah-nee'-mee-ah
Please note: this article has been provided for informational purposes only. If your pet is showing any signs of illness, please consult a veterinarian as quickly as possible.