Fellow Feline Helps Save Sick Cat’s Life

Al the cat When black and white cat Mischief, from Dunstable in Bedfordshire, was in life-threatening trouble with severe anaemia, courageous local fellow feline Little Al, from Luton, came to her rescue. His donated blood, together with the expertise of staff at Davies Veterinary Specialists (DVS) saved Mischief’s life. Mischief was referred to DVS, a private small animal referral centre based in Higham Gobion, Hertfordshire, as an emergency, suffering from severe anaemia. This is a life-threatening condition where reduced numbers of red blood cells can result in a lack of oxygen to the vital organs. Mischief had so few red blood cells she needed an urgent transfusion to save her life. Luckily, courageous cat Little Al, who belongs to DVS Radiographer Sue Whitfield, was on hand to help out. 50ml of Little Al’s donated blood stabilised Mischief’s critical condition. This gave the Veterinary Specialists the time they needed to identify and treat the cause of Mischief’s anaemia. Thanks to Little Al’s selfless deed, Mischief was able to return home to her owners a week later. Mischief’s owner Sarah Everett said: “We cannot thank Little Al and his owner enough for what they did that Friday night when they saved Mischief’s life. I never appreciated the importance of cat blood donors before, but now I would like to encourage as many people as possible to sign their cats up as blood donors and potentially help save a cat’s life.” Clive Elwood, Managing Director at DVS, said: “Cat blood is a very precious resource and at the moment we usually have to rely on the generosity of our staff in volunteering their pets. Mischief was very lucky that Little Al was on hand. This case highlights the importance of cat blood donors being available to veterinary practices. We would love more people to sign up to our donor register.” If you feel your cat may be able to help another feline friend by becoming a blood donor, please contact Helen Gibbison at Davies Veterinary Specialists on 01582 883950.

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