고양이도 혈액형이 있을까? 모든 고양이 보호자가 알아야 할 충격적인 사실

Do cats have blood types?

Cats do indeed have blood types, and knowing your pet’s type is more than just trivia—it’s a potentially lifesaving detail.
In feline medicine, blood transfusions, breeding, and emergency care all rely on accurate blood type compatibility.

The Basics: What Are Blood Types in Cats?

The AB Blood Group System

Cats have a unique blood classification known as the AB system, consisting of Type A, Type B, and Type AB.
They lack the human O type and dogs’ more complex system.

Differences Between Type A, B, and AB

Type A is the most common; Type B is rarer and contains strong anti-A antibodies; Type AB cats have no antibodies and are considered universal recipients.

고양이의 혈액형을 아는 것이 중요한 이유

Importance in Blood Transfusions

Mismatched transfusions can be fatal in cats—even the first time—due to naturally occurring antibodies.
Hence, blood typing 그리고 crossmatching are essential before transfusions.

Neonatal Isoerythrolysis: A Hidden Risk in Breeding

When a Type B queen gives birth to Type A or AB kittens, the antibodies in her milk can destroy the kittens’ red blood cells—this is known as neonatal isoerythrolysis.

Detailed Breakdown of Feline Blood Types

Type A: The Most Common Blood Type

Type A is found in 94–99% of domestic cats in North America and is generally safer during transfusions due to its prevalence.

Type B: Rare but Risky

Type B cats carry potent anti-A antibodies, making transfusion with Type A blood extremely dangerous.

Type AB: The Rare Universal Recipient

Type AB cats can receive all types of blood without reaction but are very rare, making treatment options limited.

How to Determine a Cat’s Blood Type?

Blood Typing Kits Used by Vets

Most vets use 세이버벳 FTB or other blood typing kits that allow fast, accurate testing before surgeries.

DNA Testing vs Serological Testing

DNA-based tests are useful for breeding programs, while serological tests are preferred in clinical settings.

The SaberVet Feline Blood Typing Rapid Test by Antigenne

그리고 SaberVet Test by Antigenne allows veterinarians to determine a cat’s blood type using a small sample of blood in under 10 minutes.
It identifies Type A, Type B, or Type AB with clear agglutination indicators and requires no lab setup.

Risks of Incompatible Blood Transfusions

Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions

Giving a Type B cat Type A blood can result in a hemolytic reaction—a fatal immune response against the new blood cells.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Many reports cite cats suffering from sudden death due to mismatched transfusions. Always test before proceeding.