I just got a transfusion for my Tomi a week ago, he was very anaemic with his blood count being only 9 (anything below 12 is critical they said). It looks like they did it through his front leg, as he had a bandage on it after, but I don't know if they had to sedate him for that or not. They did it Friday afternoon, and I brought him home Saturday at noon (he ate his food so they said he could go).
Probably the most traumatic thing for him, is they had him next to a noisy dog, and he is really scared of strange places/people/dogs. It cost me $200, plus the overnight stay, and it definately made him feel better. His blood count is only up to 17 now though, a week later, so he's not out of the woods yet. It was 13 after the transfusion, so at least its going up slowly. To me, it was worth it, as I don't think he would have lived without it. Whether i've bought him a only little more time, or a lot more time, I don't know yet. Did they test Slinky's blood to see what the actual count is? If its not critically low, you could try the wait and see approach. Tomi's gums were pretty much white when his blood count was at 9, they're noticably pinker now. Good luck with your kitty Cassandra ----- Original Message ----- From: Marissa Johnson To: [email protected] Sent: Friday, March 16, 2007 6:30 PM Subject: Transfusion? Hi. Does anyone have any experience with blood transfusions for sick kitties? Two vets now have basically told me that's about the only recourse I have left for trying to turn Slinky around. He seems to be doing a BIT better right now...I took him in and got some Sub-Q fluids (though I haven't started them yet), but I think being outside probably got his fever down a bit. I also gave him some vitamin C, L-Lysine, Hi-Vite, and his 2 abx. He sees a bit more energetic and actually left my bedroom for the first time in days! But the vet says his gums look like he basically has no blood (low red cell count). I have no idea if I can even afford it, but I'm going to do some research into costs and payment plan options tomorrow. He's still eating, grooming, etc. so I think he wants to fight...and I told him I'd keep fighting 'till he tells me to stop. Anyway, was just wondering if anyone had any experience with transfusions. Do you think it's worthwhile? Is it horribly invasive or traumatic? Is it something that has to be repeated periodically or...? Any info or advice would be most appreciated. Thanks! Love and hugs to everyone's fur kids! MJ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ TV dinner still cooling? Check out "Tonight's Picks" on Yahoo! TV. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.446 / Virus Database: 268.18.11/722 - Release Date: 3/14/2007 3:38 PM
