How is blood transfusion done in cats? - briefly
Blood transfusion in cats involves carefully matching the donor’s blood type with the recipient’s, followed by administering the blood intravenously under close veterinary supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How is blood transfusion done in cats? - in detail
Blood transfusion in cats is a critical medical procedure used to address severe anemia, blood loss, or clotting disorders. The process begins with a thorough evaluation of the cat’s condition, including diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, and crossmatching to ensure compatibility between the donor and recipient. Cats have three blood types: A, B, and AB, with type A being the most common. Mismatched transfusions can lead to life-threatening reactions, so accurate typing is essential.
The donor cat is selected based on health status, blood type, and compatibility. Donors are typically screened for infectious diseases such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and hemoplasma to prevent transmission. Once a suitable donor is identified, blood is collected aseptically, usually from the jugular vein, and mixed with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting.
The recipient cat is prepared by placing an intravenous (IV) catheter, often in the cephalic or saphenous vein. Vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, are closely monitored throughout the procedure. The collected blood is administered slowly through the IV line, typically over 2-4 hours, to minimize the risk of adverse reactions such as transfusion reactions or fluid overload.
During the transfusion, the cat is observed for signs of complications, including fever, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior. If any adverse reactions occur, the transfusion is paused, and appropriate interventions are initiated. After the procedure, the cat’s condition is reassessed, and follow-up care may include additional blood tests, medications, or supportive therapies to address the underlying cause of the anemia or blood loss.
Blood transfusion in cats is a highly specialized procedure that requires meticulous planning, precise execution, and continuous monitoring to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment. It is performed by trained veterinary professionals in a clinical setting to maximize positive outcomes for the feline patient.