The Importance of Blood Typing Cats

Dr. Kari Mundschenk, Director, American Association of Feline Practitioners

 In most instances, most of us don't think of what might be needed in an emergency until we are faced with that emergency.  Such is the case during extreme blood loss whether it is from trauma, toxin exposure such as rodenticide ingestion, hemolytic anemia (where the body destroys its own blood cells) or severe renal disease, cancer and surgical loss.  In people, the importance of blood typing starts prior to birth where data shows a mother's maternal antibodies can cause hemolysis in her newborn child.  This phenomenon also occurs in other species including the cat and the horse.

What do you do when you are faced with an acute anemia (decreased red blood cells)?  A lack of red blood cells has been shown to contribute to decreased oxygen levels in the body which can lead to organ damage, particularly of the heart and kidneys.  In such cases, simply replacing red blood cells with donor blood would seem obvious.  NOT.  Unlike the dog where one transfusion can be given without too much worry, the cat is not the same.  In fact, even in known blood types, it is best to perform a cross match prior to infusing blood, platelets or plasma.

In general, cats have three blood types, A, AB and B.  The predominance of naturally occurring types varies according to geographic location AND breed.  Complicating the situation, studies have shown that Type B cats can have natural occurring Anti-A antibodies w/o prior pregnancy, transfusion, etc.  In the west, most cats are Type A blood, however, breeds such as the Rex, Birman and British Shorthair tend to have more Type B.  Add to this the fact that blood is not always available immediately so cost can be a factor, blood must be screened regularly to assure no transmission of FeLV, FIV, Mycoplasma or Bartonella (a few of the recommended), wouldn't it be best to assure the proper type of blood is being sought in an emergency?

Fortunately, a simple blood test can be performed in the hospital and for our breeders; there are now genetic tests available which involve a cheek swab.  This is especially important when Type A kittens are born to a type B queen.  If information is known prior to birth, certain precautions can be made to assure health of the kitten.

Be prepared; know your cat's blood type today.