Mission
Animal Clinic and Feline Infectious Anemia
Located in the San Fernando Valley, 16907 San Fernando Mission Blvd. Granada Hills Ca, 818-363-8143
Feline Infectious Anemia is a disease caused by a microscopic parasite (Hemobartonella felis) that attaches to the red blood cells (erythrocytes). The affected red blood cells are then detected by the pet’s immune system, which destroys those particular erythrocytes causing anemia.
Signs
of the disease are a result of the anemia. Signs may include
depression, weakness, loss of appetite, emaciation, fever, and jaundice
(yellowish discoloration of mucous membranes).
In the early stages, the disease is cyclic—with the cat having “good
days” and “bad days.” As the
disease progresses, there become more “bad days” than “good days.”
Transmission
of the disease is not known for sure at this time.
It is thought that it is spread from one cat to another by insects that
carry blood, such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.
However, none of this has been proven as of yet.
Diagnosis
is made from microscopic analysis of a blood sample. Unfortunately
the parasite cannot always be found in a particular blood sample.
Several samples may be required before a positive diagnosis can be made.
The parasite may be found in cats not showing signs of the disease.
Debilitation and stress are thought to be the “trigger” allowing the
disease to progress. Feline leukemia
is found in about 20% of FIA cats. Therefore
suspect cases should also be tested for feline leukemia virus.
Treatment
is very successful unless the cat has progressed to the very late stages of the
disease.
IV injections and oral antibiotics are usually effective.
Blood transfusions may be required if severe anemia exists.
Some
treatments merely suppress the disease and do not rid the cat of it.
Therefore relapses may occur at a later date.
Recovered cats may be carriers for life.
Prevention
of the disease should include:
1.
Feeding
high quality foods
2.
Preventing
flea & tick infestation
3.
Maintaining
current vaccinations
4.
Keeping
the cat inside
5.
Treating
other illnesses promptly
16907 San Fernando Mission Blvd. Granada Hills, Ca. 91344 818-363-8143
Home Our Philosophy Hospital Tour Our Services Conditions K-9 Conditions Feline Conditions Videos Lost Pet 911 Payment Options Directions and Hours Book Store