The cat's kidneys normally produce the hormone erythropoietin which stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. Anemia can be monitored with blood tests. Learn the normal color of your cat's mucous membranes and check daily for signs of anemia. If the gums, tongue or nosepad appear pale or bluish in color, contact your veterinarian immediately for the necessary treatment. Cats with anemia are also weak and may have rapid breathing and loss of appetite.
Medications are available to treat anemia.
Transfusion is an option, but must be repeated frequently, is stressful for the cat and is only a short-term solution. The cat won't eat because it doesn't feel good and not eating makes it feel even worse and lose weight. An appetite stimulant or force-feeding may be needed as time goes on. Because CRF cats cannot concentrate their urine, the problem becomes more serious. To check for dehydration, gently pinch a bit of skin at the back of the cat's neck.