Feline Infectious Anaemia: What You Need to Know

Feline infectious anaemia (FIA), also known as haemoplasma infection, is a bacterial disease caused primarily by Mycoplasma haemofelis and related species that infect red blood cells, leading to their damage and destruction. This results in anaemia, a condition where the blood lacks sufficient healthy red cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body’s tissues.

This comprehensive guide explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of FIA to help you protect your cat responsibly and understand this serious condition better.

Understanding the Causes of Feline Infectious Anaemia

FIA is caused by haemoplasmas—bacteria that attach to the outside of red blood cells and sometimes invade inside them. The attachment itself damages these cells, and the cat’s immune system may mistakenly destroy infected red cells in an attempt to fight the bacteria. Both processes can lead to significant anaemia.

There are at least three species of haemoplasmas affecting cats:

• Mycoplasma haemofelis – usually causes acute and severe anaemia.
• Mycoplasma haemominutum and Mycoplasma turicensis – generally cause milder or no symptoms, but can still contribute to illness under certain conditions.

Immunocompromised cats, especially those with other serious infections like FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) or FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus), are more prone to developing symptomatic FIA due to reduced ability to control the bacterial infection.

Recognising Symptoms of FIA

Typical symptoms reflect the anaemia caused by red blood cell damage and include:

• Weakness and lethargy
• Pale gums and mucous membranes
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Increased heart and respiratory rates
• Fever during early stages

These signs are not unique to FIA, so it is important to seek veterinary advice for accurate diagnosis.

How is Feline Infectious Anaemia Diagnosed?

Your vet will assess your cat’s symptoms and carry out a blood test. Molecular tests such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) are the most sensitive and can detect specific haemoplasma DNA in the blood. This test also identifies the haemoplasma species, guiding treatment decisions.

It is common practice to test for co-infections like FIV and FeLV since these can worsen the impact of FIA and affect management.

Treatment Options for FIA

Antibiotics are the primary treatment to combat the bacterial infection, often requiring a prolonged course. In cases where the immune system contributes to ongoing red blood cell destruction, corticosteroids may be prescribed to suppress this response carefully.

If anaemia is severe and life-threatening, a blood transfusion might be necessary to stabilise the cat. Fortunately, FIA-related anaemia is regenerative, meaning the bone marrow continues to produce healthy red blood cells, which aids recovery once the infection is controlled.

Preventing Transmission of Feline Infectious Anaemia

Currently, no vaccine exists for FIA. Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to infectious vectors and maintaining overall health:

• Strict flea and tick control is essential, as fleas are the main transmitters of haemoplasmas.
• Keeping cats indoors can lower risks by restricting contact with infected animals.
• Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet helps sustain immune function.
• Routine veterinary care and timely treatment of concurrent illnesses help reduce incidence and severity.

Cats that have recovered from FIA can still carry the bacteria and may relapse, especially during stress or immunosuppression, so ongoing monitoring and preventive care remain important.

Answering Common Questions About Feline Infectious Anaemia

Can a cat survive feline infectious anaemia?

Quick Answer: Yes, many cats survive FIA with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, although some may become lifelong carriers.

Early recognition of symptoms and veterinary intervention improve prognosis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care such as blood transfusions if needed. Because the infection can reoccur, ongoing health monitoring is essential for affected cats.

How is feline infectious anaemia spread?

Quick Answer: FIA is mainly spread through flea bites, but also via bite wounds from infected cats and rarely through contaminated blood.

Fleas act as the primary vectors by carrying haemoplasma bacteria between cats as they feed on blood. Cats living outdoors or in multi-cat households with poor flea control are more at risk. Preventing flea infestations is the most effective way to reduce the spread of FIA.

Is FIA contagious to humans or other animals?

Quick Answer: No, FIA is generally specific to cats and not considered contagious to humans or other pet species.

Though haemoplasmas affect cats seriously, there is no evidence of transmission to people or different animals like dogs or birds. Responsible pet care includes protecting all pets from flea infestations to avoid vector-borne illnesses specific to their species.

Promoting Responsible Cat Ownership

Awareness about feline infectious anaemia helps cat owners ensure better health and safety for their pets. Flea prevention plays a crucial role, especially in multi-cat environments where infection can spread unnoticed. Regular check-ups allow early detection and management of illnesses, improving outcomes and quality of life.

For those seeking kittens for sale or adopting cats, always choose reputable breeders or rescue centres who prioritise health screening and disease prevention. Responsible ownership ensures that conditions like FIA are identified and managed swiftly to safeguard your feline family members.