Erythrocytosis (Polycythemia) in Cats

Erythrocytosis (often referred to as polycythemia) is an increase in the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. (Polycythemia varies from erythrocytosis in that polycythemia may also refer to an increase in white blood cells or platelets.) Primary erythrocytosis (polycythemia vera) is a disease in which the blood-producing cells in the bone marrow develop and reprodu

Leukocytes, or white blood cells, in the blood of mammals include neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. These cells vary with regard to where they are produced, how long they circulate in the bloodstream, and the factors that stimulate them into going in or out of the intricate network of tiny blood vessels that branch out through the tissues

When bleeding occurs in an organ or body part, a process is set in motion to stop the bleeding. This is called hemostasis. To work, hemostasis requires an adequate number of platelets, the right amount of blood clotting proteins (often referred to as factors), and blood vessels that constrict properly. When an injury occurs, the wall of the blood vessel breaks. A norma

Blood parasites are organisms that live in the blood of their animal hosts. These parasites can range from single-celled protozoa to more complex bacteria and rickettsiae. The method of transmission varies depending on the parasite, but often they are transmitted through the bites of ticks or flies.

Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells. It can develop from loss, destruction, or lack of production of red blood cells. Anemia is classified as regenerative or nonregenerative. In a regenerative anemia, the bone marrow responds to the decreased number of red blood cells by increasing red blood cell production. Anemias due to bleeding or the d

Blood groups are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens (proteins or sugars) found on the red blood cell membrane. The number of blood group systems varies among domestic species. Cats have 4 known blood types, A, B, AB, and mic. Type A is most common (about 99% of cats in the United States are Type A). Certain breeds have a higher prevalence of Type B. Typ

Platelets, produced in the bone marrow, are small, cell-like particles that start the formation of blood clots. Platelets gather where bleeding occurs and clump together to form the initial plug that stops or slows down the flow of blood. Platelets also release other substances needed to complete the clotting process. Platelet disorders can result fr

The function of white blood cells (also called leukocytes) is to defend the body against infection. There are 2 main types of white blood cells: phagocytes and lymphocytes.

The main function of red blood cells (also called erythrocytes) is to carry oxygen to the tissues. Oxygen is carried within red blood cells by molecules called hemoglobin. Oxygen is used by cells to produce energy the body needs. Carbon dioxide is left behind as a waste product during this process. The red blood cells then carry carbon dioxide away from the tissues and back

Blood cells form and develop mostly in the bone marrow, that is, the tissue located in the cavities of bones. Blood performs a variety of important functions as it circulates throughout the body. It delivers oxygen and vital nutrients (such as vitamins, minerals, fats, and sugars) to the tissues. It carries carbon dioxide to the lungs to be exhaled and waste products t