Companion Animals

Cat Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia Welfare

IMHA causes rapid red blood cell destruction, requiring emergency treatment and careful management to restore quality of life.

Key Facts

IMHA is life-threatening with mortality rates of 20-70% in untreated or delayed cases
Clinical signs include pale gums, weakness, rapid breathing, and collapse
Prednisolone with or without additional immunosuppressants forms the treatment basis
Blood transfusions may be needed to stabilise critically anaemic patients
Identifying and treating underlying triggers (infection, drugs, neoplasia) is essential

Welfare Considerations

IMHA causes acute severe welfare suffering through anaemia, hypoxia, and circulatory compromise. The welfare cost of delayed diagnosis is high as the condition progresses rapidly. Emergency stabilisation through transfusion combined with immunosuppression provides the best welfare outcomes. Early recognition of pale gums as an emergency sign is critical.

What You Can Do

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately for cats with pale gums or sudden weakness
Provide blood transfusion support if recommended during stabilisation
Monitor closely for relapses in the months following apparent recovery