Animals also require blood transfusions in cases of significant blood loss due to accidents, surgery, coagulation disorders, and various diseases. Blood is collected from donor animals for this purpose. As with humans, animals also have different blood types that must be taken into account.
Blood groups are classified based on specific surface structures on red blood cells, known as antigens.
Similar to humans, cats have blood types A, B, or C (=AB). Blood group distribution depends heavily on breed. European Shorthair cats usually have blood group A, while other breeds such as British Shorthair cats more commonly have blood group B. Cats are born with antibodies against blood group antigens other than their own. It is therefore essential to check the blood group before the first blood transfusion. Otherwise, severe incompatibility reactions may occur.
There are a total of twelve blood groups in dogs. However, only the blood groups DEA (Dog Erythrocyte Antigen) 1.1 positive and DEA 1.1 negative are tested, as this antigen often causes blood transfusion reactions. DEA 1.1 negative dogs are considered "universal donors" because their blood does not cause incompatibility reactions in most dogs, regardless of their blood group. It is therefore used especially in time-critical emergencies.
A total of seven blood groups are known in horses (A, C, D, K, P, Q, and U). These carry different cell membrane proteins (=factors: a-i, r-k). Despite the 34 possible combinations of blood group and factor in horses, incompatibilities between donor and recipient blood are less common than in other animals or humans.
The first blood transfusion is usually unproblematic in dogs and horses, as they do not yet have antibodies against other blood group antigens as long as they have not had contact with foreign blood. An exception are mares that have had a foal with so-called neonatal isoerythrolysis (=destruction of the foal's red blood cells by the mare's antibodies). However, if possible, a compatibility test between donor and recipient blood should also be performed in dogs and horses during the first blood transfusion.
A small area of skin on the recipient animal is shaved and disinfected. The donor blood is administered into the large jugular vein via a special infusion tube with an integrated blood filter.
The speed at which the transfusion is administered depends on the condition of the recipient animal. A rapid transfusion is necessary for animals with unstable circulation, heart disease, or renal insufficiency. For more stable patients, the transfusion takes up to four hours. The animal is continuously monitored during this time. Its heart and respiratory rates are checked regularly for up to 24 hours after the transfusion.
The following reactions may occur during and after a blood transfusion:
Since it is costly to store large quantities of blood correctly, freshly collected blood from donor animals is usually used. Many veterinary practices keep a list of potential blood donor animals for this purpose. As these are often emergencies, owners who can bring their donor animals to the practice quickly and flexibly are in demand.
Donor animals must also meet the following requirements:
After a general examination of the donor animal, a small amount of blood is taken. This blood sample is used to check whether the donor and recipient blood are compatible. If this is the case, a small area of skin on the neck is shaved and disinfected for the blood donation. Blood is then collected from the large jugular vein in a blood bag or, in cats, in a large syringe. The blood donation takes only 15 minutes, but longer in horses due to the amount of blood taken. The donor animal must remain still during this time. For cats and some dogs, a sedative injection is necessary for this purpose. Depending on the size of the recipient animal, the following amounts are collected:
The removal of these amounts places little strain on the donor animals. The blood that is removed is replaced by the body within a short time. However, you should avoid putting your animal under any great strain for up to 24 hours after the blood donation. Dogs should wear a chest harness instead of a collar for a few days. The next blood donation may take place after three months at the earliest.
It is natural for your horse to occasionally shake its head to ward off insects or because it is excited or tense. However, involuntary, persistent head tossing without any apparent cause is no longer natural. It is characteristic of headshaking syndrome. Unlike cribbing or weaving, headshaking syndrome is usually not a behavioral disorder, but a neurological condition that should be investigated by a veterinarian.
Since the urethra narrows significantly towards the tip of the penis in male cats, it can very easily become blocked, a condition known as urethral obstruction. Affected animals are suddenly unable to urinate, resulting in painful and life-threatening urinary retention in the bladder. This is always a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment. Indoor cats are primarily affected, while outdoor cats are much less likely to develop the condition.
It can be so much fun to spend hours grooming our horse. Cleaning the tail, oiling the hooves, and so on... Many four-legged friends also enjoy a day of beauty. Of course, there is a wide range of products you can try out on your horse. There are entire beauty ranges for animals, and you can actually spend a lot of money in equestrian shops. But there are cheaper options. The simplest items from the drugstore can be wonderfully repurposed as horse care products. The same goes for equipment for ground work, fear training, or just for playing with your horse.
The British Shorthair is one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe. With its sturdy build, thick coat, and calm nature, the British Shorthair has a special charm. It is considered well-balanced, uncomplicated, reserved, and self-confident: an ideal cat for people with a more relaxed lifestyle.
Do you like rabbits? Then it's best to get two or more, as these little hoppers feel very lonely on their own. Before you bring your rabbits home, you should make sure you have enough space for them.
Does your cat suddenly seem unwell and lethargic? Or is it behaving differently than usual, perhaps avoiding being stroked? You should pay close attention to any unusual behavior. Keep a close eye on your cat's health and take it for regular check-ups at your veterinary practice.
The first few weeks with a puppy are exciting—not just for you, but also for your young dog. Soon, the moment will come when you discover the world outside your home together for the first time. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your first walk is a pleasant and safe experience for both of you.
Arthroscopy, also known as joint endoscopy, involves examining a joint from the inside. It is a diagnostic and therapeutic treatment method used in orthopedics that does not require large incisions in the skin (i.e., it is minimally invasive).
Dermatophilosis, not to be confused with dermatomycosis caused by fungi, is a bacterial skin disease in horses. It occurs mainly in the wet and cold season in horses that are kept in open stables or spend a lot of time in pastures, which is why it is also colloquially referred to as rain eczema.
If your cat has a runny nose and is breathing noisily, there may be a harmless cause. However, sometimes this can also be a sign of an illness that requires urgent treatment
In animals, assisted dying, the so-called euthanasia, is permitted under certain circumstances regulated by animal welfare laws. If suffering can no longer be alleviated, painless euthanasia can be a relief for your animal. But when is the right time, and how does euthanasia work?
There are many different arguments for different types of dog food. What is best for which dog and how feeding can be integrated into the daily routine of those caring for them varies according to individual needs. Below you will find some recommendations and ideas on this topic.
