What Is Anemia In Dogs?
Anemia is a condition in dogs that occurs when they don't produce enough red blood cells, or if a dog has suffered severe blood loss from a condition such as cancer or through a physical injury.
Because of this, anemia is usually considered a symptom or indicator of another underlying issue rather than a health issue unto itself.
Anemia is found in 4 different varieties in dogs, they are:
BLOOD LOSS ANEMIABlood loss anemia occurs when a dog loses a serious amount of blood as caused by an injury, bleeding disorder, or surgery. This kind of anemia can also be caused by internal bleeding from chemotherapy drugs, cancer, ulcer, or parasites.
APLASTIC OR NON-REGENERATIVE ANEMIA
An aplastic or non-regenerative anemia is caused by lower-than-healthy production of red blood cells. This kind of anemia can manifest in dogs who have been exposed to poisons, who have bone marrow diseases, parvovirus, chemotherapy drugs, and certain kinds of medicines.
HEMOLYTIC ANEMIA
Hemolytic anemia is when a dog's red blood cells are destroyed or broken down. This kind of anemia can be caused by autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), or other non-immune-mediated causes. These can include parasites, toxins, hereditary diseases, or low phosphorous levels.
METHEMOGLOBINEMIA
Methemoglobinemia is found in dogs whose blood contains too much methemoglobin. This can be caused by exposure to certain human medications (like ibuprofen, benzocaine, or acetaminophen) or genetic disorders.
What Causes Anemia In Dogs?
There are many underlying conditions found in dogs that might be the cause of anemia, they include:
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney disease
- Cancer
- Intestinal bleeding
- Poor nutrition
- Bone marrow disease
- Cushing’s disease
- Severe blood loss as a result of accident or injury
- Infectious diseases including canine distemper
- Medications that interfere with red blood cell production
- Blood loss caused by parasites such as fleas
- Chronic diseases that suppress red blood cell production
- Toxins or poisons (rat poison or lead poisoning)
- Tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease
What Are The Symptoms Of Anemia In Dogs?
The symptoms of anemia may vary based on what condition or illness is underlying the anemia and the kind of anemia your dog is experiencing. However, if your dog is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it may have anemia:
- Weakness or lethargy
- Weight loss
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Pale gums, eyes, or ears
- Black stools
- Fast pulse or rapid breathing
What Are The Treatments For Anemia?
The treatment recommended for your dog by your vet will vary based on the underlying cause of the anemia. That recommendation could be:
- Parasite or de-worming medications
- Surgery
- Blood transfusion
- Change of existing medications
- Gastrointestinal medication
- Chemotherapy
- Antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs
- Potassium phosphate supplements
- Bone marrow transfusion
What Is The Prognosis For Dogs With Anemia?
The prognosis for a dog who has anemia will entirely depend on the condition which is causing the anemia. Anemia can signal that your dog is suffering from a life-threatening condition such as cancer or poisoning.
Because of this, you should always take any signs of anemia very seriously. If you detect any symptoms of anemia in your dog, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Prevention
Anemia can be prevented by preparing for and being aware of its underlying causes. Parasite prevention can be undertaken throughout the year through medication and by avoiding high-risk situations. Likewise, keeping toxic substances out of your dog's reach and feeding them a healthy diet can help prevent anemia.
Certain breeds of dogs (like Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, American Cocker Spaniels, and Labrador Retrievers), are predisposed to developing anemia. If your dog is genetically susceptible to anemia, make sure you take them to your vet for a regularly scheduled check-up.
If you think your dog may be showing signs of anemia, contact our Fairfield County vets as soon as possible.
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