Companion Animals

Cat Feline Immune-Mediated Haemolytic

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in cats causes progressive severe anemia that is life-threatening without rapid immunosuppressive treatment.

Key Facts

IMHA in cats causes immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells causing anemia
Clinical signs include pale or yellow gums, lethargy, rapid breathing, and collapse
Mycoplasma haemofelis infection is a common trigger and must be tested for and treated
Prednisolone with or without chlorambucil forms the treatment backbone
Recovery can take weeks to months with carefully monitored dose reduction

Welfare Considerations

Cats with IMHA experience severe anemia causing weakness, breathlessness, and extreme debility. Emergency treatment including transfusion where necessary prevents death and reduces the duration of severe welfare compromise.

What You Can Do

Seek immediate emergency veterinary care for cats showing sudden weakness and pale or yellow gums
Test for Mycoplasma haemofelis as a treatable trigger in every cat with IMHA
Monitor packed cell volume regularly during treatment to track recovery progress