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Regenerative Anemia in Cats

Regenerative anemia occurs when the body loses blood faster than it can be regenerated, despite the fact that red blood cells are being produced in the bone marrow.  

Symptoms and Types

• Pale gums
• Pale eyes and ears
• Weakness
• Rapid heart beat
• Depression
• Sleeping more than normal
• Failure to groom
• Weak appetite
• Excessive panting
• Heart murmur
• Hemolytic anemia:
  • Yellow gums
  • Yellowing of whites of eyes

Causes

• Parasites (worms)
• Fleas
• Wound
• Cancer
• Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• Hemolytic anemia, which can be due to :
  • Ingestion of toxic materials
  • Ingestion of pennies
  • Ingestion of onions and/or acetaminophen
  • Bacterial and viral infections
  • Defective red blood cells
  • Autoimmune disease
  • Parasites of the blood

Diagnosis

• Complete blood test (CBC)
• Packed cell volume test (PCV)
• Urinalysis
• Bone marrow aspirate