Cat Health & Safety

Several conditions can cause an abnormally low red blood cell count (anemia) in a cat, such as a flea or intestinal worm infestation, infection with the feline leukemia virus, or advanced kidney disease. Anemic cats often have pale gums and lower energy, but the severity of their symptoms will depend on how low their red blood cell count is, how quickly it dropped, and the cause of their anemia. If it’s been a slow, gradual decline, it may be very difficult for you to know that your cat is anemic. Fortunately, anemia is easily detected on simple blood tests, and it is just one of the reasons periodic blood and urine screening tests are important (Tip #47). Like with many things, the earlier anemia is caught, the better it is for your cat.