Anaemia in Cats and Dogs

This first part of this module covers the essential anatomy and physiology of red blood cells and the bone marrow. The second part encompasses haematology, though a routine everyday test performed in veterinary practice, the full value of the haematologic findings are sometimes overlooked. This part will cover interpretation of external and internal result including scatterplots, the terminology used and the basics of in-house evaluation of a blood smear.

Covering the presentation, key history, and physical examination this module provides a sound approach to the basics of the anaemic patient ensuring key information and findings are not missed or ignored. Following on this then leads into the choice and interpretation of further diagnostic tests.

This module is dedicated to transfusion medicine from donor to administration. The various types of blood products, their advantages and disadvantages will be presented along with how to cross match if repeat transfusions are necessary as well as dealing with transfusion reactions.

Based on the history, physical examination and investigations anaemias should be able to be classified as regenerative or non-regenerative. This module addresses regenerative anaemia, haemorrhage vs. haemolysis and how to distinguish the two. Where anaemia is haemolytic, the distinction between unassociated (primary) and associated (secondary) haemolysis can be made.

An essential part of this module will be a discussion of treatment options and ongoing patient monitoring to assess response.

This final informational module will address causes of on-regenerative anaemia and the approach to deciding whether the cause is systemic or bone marrow related.

Once cause has been established, the second part of the module will discuss an approach to management and rational treatment choices.

These modules will present cases of anaemia in cats and dogs for delegates to work through using a logical and evidenced-based approach.