Anemia in dogs occurs when they have insufficient red blood cell production. Since red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, dogs with anemia will display signs and symptoms of this decreased energy flow. Anemia in dogs is usually a symptom of a more serious, underlying problem that can become life-threatening if left untreated. Owners should learn the signs and symptoms of anemia in dogs to allow early detection and give their pets the best chance of surviving the condition.
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Idle Exhaustion
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After a play session, it is normal for a healthy dog to pant and lie down to rest for a while before resuming normal activity. However, two telltale signs of anemia in dogs are rapid breathing and rapid heartbeat without previous physical exertion.
Paleness and Depression
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A dog's gums are normally pink. If the gums look pale, this may be a sign of anemia. An anemic dog's eyes and ears may also become pale. A dog's mood can also fade when they are not feeling well. Anemic dogs may grow depressed and not want to participate in their usual day-to-day activities, or they may simply display overall sadness and lethargy.
Flea Infestation and Dog Anemia
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Flea bites are one cause of anemia in dogs. Every time a flea bites a dog, the flea extracts blood from the dog. If multiple fleas feed on a dog, the dog can eventually lose a substantial amount of blood and become anemic. Notable flea infestation along with other signs and symptoms should alert dog owners to possible anemia.
Overall Decline in Habits
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Another sign of anemia in dogs is generalized weakness. An anemic dog may not have the strength to run as fast or as long as usual, play for the normal length of time it usually plays, or pull and push toys as robustly as it usually does. Also, a dog's appetite is usually one of its most consistent characteristics. If the appetite shows a marked decrease, the dog may be anemic. Dogs with anemia may also groom less, or stop grooming themselves altogether. Anemic dogs may sleep for far longer periods of time than they normally do.
Blood Loss and Collapse
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A dog who has experienced blood loss may become anemic, so a dog that has been in an accident and has sustained blood loss should be examined by a veterinarian. An anemic dog may also collapse because of the oxygen deprivation the dog's body is experiencing.
Abdominal Distension
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A dog's abdominal area should be proportionate to the rest of its body. If a dog's abdominal area becomes abnormally larger than its normal size, the dog may be anemic.
Urine/Fecal Blood
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Owners should examine their dogs' urine and feces regularly to spot signs of trouble. An anemic dog may pass blood in its urine and/or feces.
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