Causes of anemia
Ask the Vet
Q: I just learned that my dog is anemic. Polly is getting old, but I don’t know why. She acts like she feels fine. Should I be worried? ~ E.S., Farragut
A: I’m happy to hear that Polly feels well, but sorry to hear that she is anemic. The reason for the anemia and the degree of anemia are both important, and this information will let you and your veterinarian know how much we should worry about Polly.
Anemia is simply defined as having fewer red blood cells than normal. Anemia occurs for three basic reasons. First, the body is losing red blood cells. This can occur for multiple reasons with trauma, internal parasites, surgery and ulcers.
Secondary, anemia can occur if the body is not producing enough red blood cells. Examples of this include chronic disease (such as kidney disease), cancer or abnormalities in the bone marrow (where the red blood cells are made)
Lastly, patients can become anemic when red blood cells are actually being destroyed. This can happen due to certain medications, toxins, chemicals or disease of the immune
system.
Your veterinarian also will want to know if Polly’s anemia is regenerative or nonregenerative. We need to know if the bone marrow recognizes that loss of red blood cells and is able to make more or not. The results of these tests will be evaluated in an effort to gain more information regarding Polly’s anemia and find the cause. Best of luck to Polly.
If you have questions about your pet, please email Dr. Myers at lenoircityanimalclinic.com
