Skip to content

Sangre

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia

The immune system attacks and destroys the animal's own red blood cells. It is one of the most serious causes of anaemia and a medical emergency.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

EMERGENCY: very pale or yellowish gums with extreme weakness and dark urine require immediate veterinary attention.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Very pale or yellowish gums
  • • Extreme weakness, exercise intolerance
  • • Rapid breathing and heartbeat
  • • Dark-coloured urine
  • • Intense lethargy, sometimes collapse
  • • Jaundice (yellowish tinge)

Causes

The immune system attacks the red blood cells. It can be primary (with no identifiable cause) or secondary to infections (babesiosis, ehrlichiosis), tumours, medicines or toxins.

Diagnosis

A complete blood count showing the anaemia and signs of red blood cell destruction, plus further tests to look for the cause.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: immunosuppressants to halt the destruction, supportive care and, in severe cases, a transfusion. Treat the underlying cause if identified. Requires hospitalisation and close monitoring.

Prevention

Tick control (to prevent the infectious causes), and avoiding inappropriate medicines and toxins.

When should you see the vet?

EMERGENCY: very pale or yellowish gums with extreme weakness and dark urine require immediate veterinary attention.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

Wallapets Sign in