March 5, 2025

Feline Transfusion Tip

Feline Transfusion Tip

From ep 154 on our ECC stream. With Dr Courtney Reddrop.

So you’ve heard that you should not use peristalsis-type drip pumps or syringe pumps to administer red blood cells to dogs, because you’ll pop the cells. But here’s a random cat fact: 

  • Cats have slightly smaller red blood cells. So..

  • It’s been shown that you can safely use pumps to transfuse cats without damaging their little RBC’s. 

  • Most of us are not doing heaps of cat transfusions, because of the typing issues, but this is really useful to remember for auto-transfusions. (Which, if you’re not doing it yet - have a listen to this episode!)

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Hubert Hiemstra

Hosted by Dr. Hubert Hiemstra, a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience and a passion for helping vets build happier, more fulfilling careers. Hubert brings warmth, curiosity, and a knack for asking the right questions to every conversation, creating a space where the best ideas in vet med come to life.

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