Jazzi and Immune-mediated Thrombocytopenia

Patient details

Name: Jazzi
Age: 15 years old
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Gender: Female

Jazzi first presented with concerning symptoms, including melena (black, bloody stool), reduced appetite and vomiting.

After an emergency blood transfusion, Jazzi was diagnosed with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, a condition where her body destroys its own platelets.

With the right treatment, Jazzi has made a fantastic recovery and is back to her chatty self!

We are thrilled to have helped Jazzi through this tough time and are so happy to see her doing well.

Patient history

Initial presentation

Jazzi was brought in as an emergency patient with severe anaemia and signs of internal bleeding. Her packed cell volume (PCV) had dropped to a life-threatening 5%, prompting an immediate blood transfusion.

Life-saving xenotransfusion

Thanks to a wonderful dog donor from VSS’s blood donation program, Jazzi underwent a xenotransfusion (a canine-to-feline blood transfusion). While the procedure helped stabilise her condition, Jazzi became jaundiced and was referred to CSS for further treatment.

Diagnosis and treatment

After additional tests, Jazzi was diagnosed with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, where her body was destroying her own platelets, preventing her blood from clotting. She began taking prednisolone to manage the condition, and her platelet count improved, resolving her anaemia.

Outcome

With ongoing care, Jazzi’s platelet count has stabilised, and she is being gradually weaned off steroids. According to her owners, she is back to her normal, talkative self, and we couldn’t be happier to see her doing so well.

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

See All Stories

Tango Triumphs Over FIP

At 5 months old, Tango was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Once considered a fatal disease, the introduction of new treatments has significantly boosted the survival rate.

Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

Toffee faced a frightening battle with tick paralysis and aspiration pneumonia, she was rushed to AES when her owners noticed her vomiting, breathing difficulties and trouble walking.

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377

1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed