Blood transfusions for cats and dogs: Could your pet be a lifesaver?
Occasionally in veterinary practices, a seriously sick or injured cat or dog will need a blood transfusion to aid their treatment and potentially save their lives. Blood transfusions for pets have become more common in the UK over recent years, supported by advances in sourcing and storing blood. This article explains what blood transfusions involve, where the blood comes from, and how the process works to save pets.
What is a blood transfusion for pets?
A blood transfusion replaces lost blood or supplements unhealthy blood components with blood from a donor animal. Blood is collected via an IV line from a healthy donor and stored safely as whole blood, plasma, or separated components. Stored blood can be kept refrigerated for up to six weeks, requiring a continuous pool of donors. Sometimes, transfusions are performed on-site as needed, drawing blood directly from a donor animal to treat a patient.
Understanding pet blood groups and matching
Like humans, animals have distinct blood groups, making matching essential. Dogs have 13 blood types grouped mainly into eight common types. Interestingly, between one-third and half of the dog population can accept blood from any group, known as 'universal recipients.' Cats have three main blood types, and ensuring compatibility before transfusion is vital because of natural antibodies that could cause reactions.
When does a pet need a blood transfusion?
Pets may need transfusions for various reasons, including severe blood loss due to injury or surgery, or illnesses like anaemia or leukaemia that affect blood cell levels. Transfusions restore oxygen-carrying capacity and help pets recover critical health functions.
Where does donated pet blood come from?
All transfusion blood is donated by other animals. Healthy, vaccinated pets with calm temperaments are encouraged to become donors. Dogs generally donate blood once or twice a year or may be on an emergency register for urgent needs. Some veterinary networks, such as MediVet, run blood banks and partner with rehoming centres to find suitable donor pets, often supporting their care in return.
Finding the right blood for your pet
Veterinary practices are connected with blood banks or databases to source compatible blood quickly. Larger clinics may keep blood reserves for emergencies but often rely on mobilising donor pets locally to reduce waste and costs. Cross-matching tests ensure safe transfusion, helping avoid adverse reactions.
Could your pet be a lifesaver?
Considering your pet as a blood donor can help save other animals’ lives. While owners usually aren't paid, reasonable expenses are covered. Donor dogs must:
- Be calm and well-tempered
- Have lived in the UK their entire life without travelling abroad
- Weigh under 25kg
- Be between one and eight years old
- Be healthy, medication-free, and fully vaccinated
Potential donor cats should:
- Be aged between one and five years (up to eight in some cases)
- Weigh over 4kg but not be overweight
- Remain calm in unusual situations, such as vet visits
- Be indoor cats preferably, though not mandatory
- Be healthy, medication-free, and fully vaccinated
Further information and support
For more about pet blood transfusions or to see if your pet qualifies as a donor, visit these trusted UK resources: Pet Blood Bank UK and Cat Blood Donors. Your pet’s blood could make a vital difference in emergency veterinary care.
