Understanding Non-Regenerative Anemia In Dogs

Your little bundles of joy and fur can be susceptible to an array of health issues. You have to be alert and always on the lookout for anomalies.

One issue you might have to face is non-regenerative anemia. This is a condition where your furball’s bone marrow fails to react to a lack of red blood cells produced. This can happen because the kidneys don’t produce enough erythropoietin (a hormone that plays a key role in the production of red blood cells), or because of problems related to bone marrow.

The most common symptoms of this condition are loss of appetite, weakness and lethargic states, depression, gums and ears turning pale, and increased heart rate or breathing. Depending on how bad the issue is, the symptoms can vary.

Though non-regenerative anemia has many causes, the most frequent ones are infections, kidney and bone marrow issues, and exposure to toxins and chemicals (including lead poisoning).

If you suspect your dog might be suffering from this, contact a vet right away. They will do a full physical examination and usually carry out blood and urine tests. Usually, they will even propose a bone marrow examination. Depending on the results, treatment will vary.

In acute cases, fluid therapies and blood transfusions will be needed. If the condition is lighter, treatment might not be necessary. Vets will recommend limiting exercise and monitoring the recovery process will be needed. Vet visits as frequent as every other day might be required. These check-ups are designed to make sure that everything develops smoothly and no complications arise.

If your dog shows any of the signs described, call your vet and schedule an appointment! There’s nothing worse than letting the condition worsen.