Anemia in cats is caused by a reduction in the number of red blood cells, or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin found in the red blood cells. Anemia is the most common disorder of the blood.
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Microcytic Hypochromic Anemia
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Microcytic hypochromic anemia is characterized by the size of the red blood cells and the composition of the hemoglobin. Microcytic means small; hypochromic means the cells are paler in color than normal, indicating the cell is lacking in hemoglobin.
Causes
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Microcytic hypochromic anemia is caused by a deficiency of iron in the red blood cells. This can be caused by blood loss due to parasites, internal bleeding and blood diseases. This condition is also common in nursing kittens.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of microcytic hypochromic anemia include decreased growth in kittens, weakness, rapid breathing, weight loss, constipation or black tarry stools.
Diagnosis
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Blood tests to determine the amount of red blood cells present, as well as a blood smear to determine the size and color of the cells, will be performed. Additional tests may include blood chemistry profile, X-rays and bone marrow biopsy.
Treatment
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Treatment for the underlying cause of the iron deficiency is necessary, as well as oral iron supplements; however, cats respond quickly once this occurs.
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