Blood types for Cats & Dogs

I read an interesting article this morning on the way to work in regards to blood type in cats and dogs that I thought that I would share. Although rare, there has been some occasions in which both cats and dogs have needed blood transfusions. Although pet blood donation centers are rare, it's worth looking into as your pet could save the life of another.

Unlike humans who have 4 blood type options, dogs on the other hand have 8. A dogs blood types are: 1-1,1-2,1-3,4,5,6,7 and 8. These blood types are characterized by assorted antigens found in the red blood cells membranes which determine the DEA. Each type can be positive or negative. The most common blood types in dogs are 1-1 and 1-2. Dogs can safely have the same amount of blood withdrawn as humans.

Unlike dogs, cats only have 3 blood types: A, B, and AB. Cats are mostly type A and rarely AB. Like humans, cats can die if they receive the wrong blood type during transfusion. The quantity recommended is 60 ml.

The following was obtained through an article from the Hospital Veterinaire Rive-Sud, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.

For more information on where you can donate blood, please contact your vet for information.