How do transfusion reactions in the cat differ from transfusion reactions in the dog?

• A. Transfusions are more severe in the cat
• B. Transfusions are more acute in the dog
• C. Cats suffer from sever pruritus
• D. Transfusions are more severe in the dog

Answer: (A)

Transfusion reactions differ mainly because cats have naturally occurring antibodies against red cell antigens, especially the B antigen. If a cat is given blood that is not a compatible type, these preformed antibodies can cause a rapid and often severe acute hemolytic reaction. That potential for dramatic, life-threatening destruction of red cells on the first exposure is much less common in dogs, whose red cells generally don’t provoke such strong immediate antibody responses, so transfusion reactions in dogs tend to be milder or nonhemolytic. In short, the higher risk of severe, acute reactions in cats makes transfusions more dangerous for them on first exposure, which is why proper blood typing and crossmatching are especially crucial in feline patients.