Blood donation saves kitten’s life
Hector's blood transfusion proved life-saving for Finn
A blood donation from a local cat has saved the life of an abandoned kitten suffering from severe anaemia.
The kitten, Finn, weighed just 260g when he was brought into the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies’ Hospital for Small Animals by a member of the public. Veterinarians discovered that the kitten was severely anaemic, due to a blood-sucking flea infestation.
Finn’s blood tests revealed that he only had a 4 per cent red blood cell count, compared to the usual 25-45 per cent seen in healthy cats.
After discovering that Finn required an emergency blood transfusion, the clinical team made an urgent appeal to local cat owners for blood donors.
While the Pet Blood Bank does store canine blood products, it does not yet store feline blood donations.
The appeal was answered in the form of Hector, a ten-year-old domestic short-haired cat, whose blood transfusion proved life-saving for Finn.
Six days after being admitted to the small animals hospital, Finn was ready to be discharged. He was adopted by one of the nurses who had cared for him and has now settled in.
Suzanne Small, who adopted Finn, said: “I first met Finn when he was carried in on a tiny blanket, collapsed and covered in fleas.
“I knew there was no guarantee he would survive but he was so small and in desperate need of help that I bonded to him quickly. Since coming home, he has continued to flourish is now a happy and healthy cat.”
Jenny Reynolds, who volunteered Hector as a blood donor, adds: “We were very happy to volunteer Hector and he loved all the cuddles and attention he received from the vets!
“It was such a quick and easy procedure for him, and we were delighted that his blood donation helped save the life of little Finn.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
