Feline Infectious Anaemia (Haemotropic Mycoplasma)

What is feline infectious anaemia?

Feline infectious anaemia is anaemia, meaning too few red blood cells, caused by tiny bacteria called haemotropic mycoplasmas, or haemoplasmas. These bacteria stick to the surface of red blood cells. The body then removes or destroys the damaged red cells, and the cat becomes anaemic. The illness used to be called haemobartonellosis.

The most serious type is Mycoplasma haemofelis. Other types usually cause milder illness or no signs. The infection is thought to spread mainly through fleas, bites during fights and blood transfusions. Male cats that go outdoors, and cats with FeLV or FIV, may be at higher risk. Some cats carry the bacteria for a long time without signs.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• Pale or white gums
• Weakness and tiredness
• Poor appetite and weight loss
• Fast breathing
• Fever

Anaemia can come on slowly, so a cat may hide it until it is quite severe.

Which lab tests help

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) shows whether the cat is anaemic and how severe it is. A Reticulocyte Count shows whether the bone marrow is making new red cells, which helps your vet understand the type of anaemia. The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) is a quick measure of how much of the blood is made up of red cells, and it can be repeated to follow progress.

A Blood Protozoa (Blood Parasite Smear) may show the bacteria on red cells. But their numbers in the blood rise and fall, and stain specks can look similar, so a negative smear does not rule the infection out.

The Haemotropic Mycoplasma (Mycoplasma haemofelis) RT-PCR looks for the bacteria's genetic material and can find them even when they are too few to see. It is the most reliable test; the lab confirms what the PCR covers when you book. The blood sample should ideally be taken before any antibiotic is started, because medicine can quickly lower the number of bacteria.

Because FeLV and FIV can make cats more likely to get sick, your vet may add the FIV / FeLV (Combo Kit). The Tick Bone Panel combines a CBC with a blood parasite smear and basic liver and kidney tests.

A registered veterinarian interprets every result together with your cat's signs and history.

When to see your vet

See your vet promptly if your cat's gums look pale, or your cat is weak, tired or not eating. Go the same day if your cat is breathing fast at rest or collapses, because severe anaemia is an emergency. Ask your vet about flea prevention.

Testing in Bhopal

Pashupatinath Vet Lab in Shahpura, Bhopal provides free sample collection anywhere in Bhopal. From other districts, blood samples can be sent through your local vet, by courier or by bus parcel; the lab coordinates by phone or WhatsApp on +91 88175 01118. The lab confirms the method, sample needs and reporting time when you book. Reports come on WhatsApp, by email and in My Reports.