HEMATOLOGIC

ANEMIA

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Anemia generally occurs secondary to chronic diseases, rather than from a specific deficiency in nutrients. Causes can be congenital, as well as infectious, traumatic, degenerative (especially renal failure), toxic, and possibly nutritional deficiencies (especially in toy breeds, which are often fed unbalanced diets).
Symptoms: Lack of energy may be a presenting sign. However, it is often detected while working up a case for another problem without specific symptoms.
Diagnostics: If anemia is found, a complete diagnostic workup should be done to determine the cause. Most anemia has an underlying chronic disease as the cause.
Special Notes: None.
Principles for Supplementation: General nutritional supplementation is helpful while treating any other chronic disease that is present. Chinese herbal treatments can help strengthen the blood and correct anemia in many cases. The underlying cause should be identified and further treated with the proper nutrients.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—ANEMIA