Moneypenny the Cat and Her Anaemia

Moneypenny was only one-year old when she first came to Veterinary Specialist Services Underwood where she saw Dr Rachel Korman, our Feline Specialist.

She presented with a severe non-regenerative anaemia and was ultimately diagnosed with non-regenerative immune mediated haemolytic anaemia. This is where the body's immune system, which normally fights infection, unfortunately starts to damage and destroy red blood cells. On admission Moneypenny's Packed Cell Volume (PCV) was only at 4%. Packed cell volume is the percentage of red blood cells that occupies the total blood volume - a normal PCV in a cat is 25-45%.

During her stay she received a typed whole blood transfusion and started a course of corticosteroids but subsequently developed high output heart failure with pleural effusion, requiring thoracocentesis. This procedure involves a needle being inserted through the chest wall and into thoracic cavity to remove the built-up fluid around the lungs.

After successfully navigating Moneypenny's initial disorders and just as her anaemia was starting to improve she developed hypertriglyceridemia (high levels of fat cells, triglycerides, in the blood) and hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose). This added yet another obstacle for Moneypenny to manage while our team worked to stabilise her.

She remained in hospital for a number of days and her anaemia eventually resolved with intensive monitoring and a strict medication regimen.

Under the watchful eye of Dr Korman and her very dedicated family at home, Moneypenny was again improving and as her medication dosage was reduced her triglycerides returned to normal and the hyperglycaemia resolved. She has now remained in remission with her anaemia off all medications for a number of months now.

Moneypenny is always a pleasure to have here at the hospital and she has a special place in our hearts.

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