Anemia With Very High Platelets in Cats

Blood work is the best way to determine potential health problems in cats. Chronic and acute illnesses, parasites, infections or other conditions can often be determined with a complete blood count (CBC), and may indicate abnormalities like anemia and very high platelets.

  1. Anemia

    • Anemic cats experience a low red blood cell count due to a variety of underlying factors. This condition comes from blood loss due to trauma, immune system diseases, toxin ingestion, or parasites. Possible problems with bone marrow may additionally result in high platelet counts.

    Symptoms of Anemia

    • Anemic cats will exhibit pale gums and mucous membranes. Cats with anemia may also display behavioral changes like eating non-food substances like bones, plastic or fabric. Severe anemia can cause weakness and inactivity, which requires a veterinarian immediately.

    High Platelet Levels

    • Anemia is a symptom of excessive bleeding often leading to a high platelet level response. Blood platelets are supposed to seal and heal leaks and prevent bleeding. High platelet counts often indicate an overactive response to an immune blood disease or various bone marrow disorders.

    Diagnosis

    • Cats exhibiting symptoms or strange behaviors need to be evaluated by a veterinarian. Treatment of anemia and high platelets relies upon the treatment of the underlying cause which is contributing to these conditions.