Anemia in Dogs: Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Treatment
Do You Know If Your Dog Is Showing Symptoms of Anemia?
Is your normally energetic dog suddenly listless, weak, and uninterested in food? Anemia may be to blame for these troubling symptoms. If you’ve noticed changes in your dog’s behavior, it’s crucial to understand what anemia is and how it can impact your pet’s health.
What is Anemia?
Anemia occurs due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in your dog’s blood. These vital cells are produced in the bone marrow, alongside platelets and white blood cells. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein responsible for delivering oxygen from the lungs to the entire body while returning carbon dioxide back to the lungs for removal. When your pet’s red blood cell or hemoglobin level is too low, their cells and tissues won’t receive enough oxygen, leading to a range of health issues.
What Are The Symptoms of Anemia?
If your dog has anemia, you may notice several symptoms, including:
- Pale Gums, Ears, or Eyes
- Jaundice (Yellow Eyes and Mucous Membranes)
- Lack of Energy and Stamina
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Lack of Appetite
- Weight Loss
- Fast Heart Rate or Pulse
- Bloody Vomit, Stool, or Urine
Recognizing these symptoms early on can make a significant difference in your dog’s treatment and recovery.
What Causes Anemia?
Anemia can occur due to several factors, including insufficient production of red blood cells, bleeding, deficiencies that lead to the premature destruction of cells, blood cell damage, or a decrease in the nutrients needed to produce red blood cells. Common causes of anemia include:
1. Blood Loss
Blood loss can occur from injuries but may also result from internal bleeding due to surgical complications, parasites, ulcers, or tumors. A blood-clotting disorder can exacerbate the loss of red blood cells.
2. Kidney Disease
In some cases, kidney disease or failure can lead to anemia. The kidneys produce a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production; a decrease in this hormone due to kidney issues can result in anemia.
3. Inherited Enzyme Deficiencies
Certain breeds, including English Springer Spaniels, West Highland Terriers, Beagles, Cairn Terriers, and Basenjis, are more prone to inherited enzyme deficiencies that can shorten the lifespan of red blood cells.
4. Toxins
Exposure to chemicals, toxic drugs, or plants can damage red blood cells. Over-the-counter medications that are safe for humans, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen, may lead to anemia in dogs. Foods like onions and garlic, as well as pesticides, are also culprits.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies
Anemia can arise if a dog’s diet lacks essential nutrients, including iron, vitamin E, copper, riboflavin, vitamins B12 and B6, or niacin.
6. Infections and Diseases
Dogs with cancer, autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or bacterial infections are at an increased risk of developing anemia.
How Do Veterinarians Diagnose and Treat Anemia?
If our doctors at Willow Glen Pet Hospital suspect that your dog has anemia, they may order a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause. These tests can include blood tests, urine tests, ultrasound scans, X-rays, bone marrow biopsies, and fecal tests to check for parasites.
Treatment Options
The treatment of anemia depends on its underlying cause. For example:
- Successfully treating flea or hookworm infestations can lead to an increase in red blood cells.
- Immunosuppressive drugs may help if your dog suffers from an immune system condition.
- Iron supplements may alleviate symptoms in some cases.
- Severe anemia may require blood transfusions.
Prompt veterinary treatment is crucial for your dog’s recovery from anemia. If your pet has been showing any of the symptoms mentioned above, please consult our doctors at Willow Glen Pet Hospital as soon as possible.
If you need more help or have any questions, call us at Willow Glen Pet Hospital, (669) 342-7472
1033 Willow Street, San Jose, CA, 95125, US
Hours: Monday – Saturday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Dr. Gillon or Dr. Shani or visit us online.