By Dr. Destiny Coleman, DVM
Anemia is a condition defined by low red blood cells (or hemoglobin) in the blood. It can occur in dogs when the dog is losing red blood cells (for example, anything that causes serious blood loss) or when the dog’s body does not produce enough hemoglobin or red blood cells.
There are several different types of anemia, each related to a different cause. This page explains the types of anemia, common causes, signs, and treatments. If you suspect your dog has anemia, contact your veterinarian right away.
What Are the Different Types of Anemia in Dogs?
Blood loss anemia is caused by issues such as bleeding disorders or injuries. Other conditions such as parasitic infestations, cancer, or stomach ulcers could also lead to this type of anemia.
If a dog has aplastic or non-regenerative anemia, it means that there is an insufficient production of blood cells. Blood cells are made in the bone marrow. Kidney disease, parvovirus, chemotherapy drugs, bone marrow disease, and certain medications may cause this.
This type of anemia occurs when the dog’s body produces too much methemoglobin. Hemoglobin allows red blood cells to carry oxygen, while methemoglobin, an alternate form of hemoglobin, lacks this critical ability. As a result, when there is too much methemoglobin, the cells of the body aren’t getting the oxygen they need. Genetic disorders and exposure to toxins (including medications meant for human conditions like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and benzocaine) can also cause this type of anemia.
This type of anemia is the result of red blood cells in your dog’s body being destroyed or broken down. The most common cause of this type of anemia is immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), when the body treats the red blood cells as foreign and attacks them with antibodies, ultimately breaking them down. It can be caused by non-immune related conditions such as exposure to toxins, parasites, or hereditary diseases.
What Are the Signs of Anemia in Dogs?
If a dog has anemia, it may have one or more of the signs listed below which can vary depending on the cause. The diagnosis of anemia is ultimately made based on a blood test, history, and physical exam.
- Pale gums
- Weakness and/or lethargy
- Black stool
- Fast pulse and/or rapid breathing
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
What Causes Anemia in Dogs?
Anemia is most often a result of a medical issue. These are some of the common causes. Please talk to your veterinarian if you believe your pet has anemia.
A number of chronic diseases may suppress red blood cell production including bone marrow disease, kidney disease, and more.
A condition in which adrenal glands overproduce cortisol, a stress hormone.
Infections caused by certain bacteria, viruses, or other organisms can lead to anemia by directly damaging or destroying red blood cells.
Many toxins (drugs, plants, or chemicals) can cause anemia if they are accidentally ingested or when some medications are not used as prescribed.
Injuries, surgeries, and severe parasite infestations may lead to anemia due to blood loss.
Certain cancers such as lymphoma may result in anemia. Chemotherapy used to combat cancer may also cause this.
Deficiencies in nutrients necessary to produce red blood cells can result in anemia. The most common is iron deficiency.
Anemia Treatment in Dogs
The prognosis for anemia depends on the cause and whether treatment is available for the underlying issue. After your veterinarian has established a diagnosis, they will recommend the best possible treatment plan for the dog’s type of anemia. Treatments may include surgery, blood transfusion, deworming or parasite medications, a change in medications, antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs such as steroids or chemotherapy.
How to Help Prevent Anemia in Dogs?
Some types of anemia described above cannot be prevented, but there are actions that can be taken to help prevent some of the causes of certain types of anemia.
- Providing a healthy diet
- Keeping up with annual wellness visits with your veterinary team
- Using broad-spectrum parasite control products as prescribed by your veterinarian
- Avoiding accidental ingestion of toxins
DR. DESTINY COLEMAN
Dr. Coleman is a graduate of the UPenn Veterinary School and has a passion for preventive medicine for dogs and cats. She enjoys educating and building relationships in the veterinary clinic with a background in general practice and clinic management. She now enjoys educating in her role as a Professional Services Veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim.