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Feline Infectious Anaemia: Welfare and Management

Feline infectious anaemia (haemoplasma infection) causes red blood cell destruction in cats. This guide covers welfare impacts and treatment.

Key Facts

Haemoplasma bacteria (Mycoplasma haemofelis) infect and destroy red blood cells
Transmission occurs through biting insects (fleas) and cat fights
Signs include lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, and weakness
FIV and FeLV positive cats are at higher risk of severe disease
Treatment with doxycycline or marbofloxacin plus supportive care is effective
Blood transfusion may be needed in severely anaemic cats

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred management prioritises prompt diagnosis and treatment. Severe anaemia causes significant welfare impact through tissue hypoxia, weakness, and respiratory distress. Antibiotic treatment eliminates acute infection, though cats may become carrier animals. Blood transfusion is life-saving in severe cases. Flea control and prevention of cat fighting reduce transmission risk. FIV/FeLV status should be checked in all affected cats.

What You Can Do

Maintain effective flea control to reduce transmission risk
Keep cats indoors or in enclosed gardens to reduce cat fight injuries
Seek veterinary attention promptly if cats show pale gums or sudden lethargy
Test affected cats for FIV and FeLV as concurrent infections worsen prognosis