14/06/2026
World Blood Donor Day 🩸🩺
Meet the lovely Melanie! She came to ChesterGates Veterinary Specialists in April to see our Internal Medicine clinician, Andrea, as she had become anaemic and was in need of a blood transfusion.
Initially we could not source a feline blood donor for her, so Melanie received a small amount of canine red blood cells to make her feel better! 🐾
This canine blood came from Pet Blood Bank UK and is readily available for dogs, however, unfortunately this isn’t an option for cats. 🐱
When Melanie became anaemic a few days later, luckily her friend Lucy was able to come to the rescue! Lucy underwent some screening to ensure she was a suitable donor - she was the perfect blood donor and enjoyed all of the fuss and treats! 💚
Melanie recently came back in for a recheck and we’re so pleased to say she is doing well!
We are in need of more cat donors like Lucy!
Requirements:
- Fit and healthy
- Good temperament
- Between 1-8 years old
- >4kg lean body weight
- Never had a blood transfusion
- Not on any medication (within the last two weeks)
- Born and never travelled outside of the UK and Ireland - if living with other cats, they should also have been born and remained in the UK for their whole life OR had screening for infectious agents
- Up to date with vaccinations (not within the last two weeks) OR has annual titre testing after the first year booster
- Receives regular prophylactic parasite treatment
Blood Donor Screening
We will perform a full health check including a heart scan and blood testing - free of charge.
What to Expect on Donation Day:
A feline-friendly approach, blood testing, local anaesthetic cream, light sedation (if necessary), and lots of fuss, food and fluids afterwards, plus treats to go home with! Your cat will be with us for approximately 4 hours, and can donate blood up to every 3 months.
If you think your cat may be suitable, please email us at [email protected] 🩸
