There are diseases that can cause serious problems for our cat, such as PIF, or the feline mycoplasma. The latter is also called feline infectious anemia or feline hemotropic mycoplasmosis, and can be fatal if left untreated.
Therefore, I am going to tell you what are your symptoms and your treatment, so that your friend can recover as soon as possible.
What is feline mycoplasma?
It is a disease caused by bacteria Haemofelis mycoplasma. This microorganism attaches itself to the cat's red blood cells, and its immune system creates antibodies to attack them. Once these cells are coated by the antibodies, they are destroyed. The problem is that, if there are many infected cells, these, when eliminated, cause anemia to the cat.
How is it infected?
These bacteria can be found in fleas and mosquitoes, so when these insects bite the cat, the mycoplasmas enter the animal's body, infecting it. What's more, an infected cat can transmit the disease to another if he injures it.
What are your symptoms?
It can take several weeks for an infected cat to show any symptoms, so be very vigilant for any changes in its behavior. Once the disease is advanced, you may have the symptoms of anemia: tiredness, pale color, loss of appetite and weight, listlessness.
How is it treated?
As soon as we see that the cat is not well, we must urgently take it to the vet. Once there, they will do a blood test to diagnose the disease, and treat it with Antibiotics and with Steroids to prevent the immune system from removing red blood cells.
In severe cases, you may need a blood transfusion.
Can it be prevented?
Yes, although not 100%. But the risk of infection is greatly reduced if the cat is protected against fleas and ticks., either with pipettes, collars or antiparasitic sprays.
The cat is an animal that is generally in very good health. But it must be observed daily to detect any problems early.