Ginkgo Biloba for Feline Thrombosis

Cats, like humans, are subject to a variety of cardiovascular problems. Among them are arterial thromboses, which are blood clots that block an artery. And just like with humans, prompt treatment of a cat is necessary to avoid complications that could lead to death. Even if the patient survives a thrombosis, long-term treatment is usually required. That treatment may include a prescription drug or a natural remedy such as ginkgo biloba.

  1. Thrombosis Pathways

    • While a blood clot in a human often begins in the leg, a blood clot in a cat usually forms in the left side of the heart. In a human, the thrombosis often travels to the lungs or heart and lodges there. A thrombosis that forms in a human heart will often travel to the brain, resulting in a stroke. Blood clots in cats will usually travel from the heart through the circulatory system until they lodge in a narrowing of an artery. This narrowing most often occurs where the abdominal aorta divides into the two arteries that supply blood to the cat's hind legs. If the clot travels to the brain, seizures may occur. Kidney failure may result if a clot forms in the kidneys.

    Feline Thrombosis Symptoms

    • There are several symptoms that can indicate thrombosis. Among these symptoms are sudden weakness or even paralysis of the hind legs, cold legs or bluish skin around the pads or nails, and faint or even absent pulse in the groin area. Vomiting, an anxious attitude and difficulty breathing may also be present. Blood clots that occur in a cat's kidneys will usually require lab tests to determine the presence of certain enzymes as well as imbalances in electrolytes. Abyssinian, Birman, ragdoll and cats of mixed breeding are most commonly affected by blood clots. Males are more susceptible than females.

    Treatment

    • Cats with suspected thrombosis need prompt treatment. That treatment will include immediate intensive care to avoid long-term damage to the blood vessel and heart. Any breathing problems will require oxygen, while some kind of blood thinner, such as heparin, is necessary to dissolve the clot. If the clot does not respond to blood thinners, surgery may be necessary to remove the clots. Since clots are often signs of severe heart disease, the prognosis is not usually good.

    Medicines

    • After the initial treatment, aspirin, some form of heparin or gingko biloba may be prescribed for ongoing care. According studies undertaken at Vanderbilt University, gingko biloba is a natural remedy that is effective in treating some symptoms of cardiovascular disease and to lessen the incidence of blood clots by removing free radicals. However, using the ginkgo biloba herbal remedy in conjunction with medicines such as heparin may increase the blood-thinning effect. Veterinarians can prescribe the exact dosage for each animal.