Thrombocytopathies in dogs are medical conditions that affect the normal function of a dog’s blood platelets. When blood platelets are unable to bind properly and clot, a dog can experience excessive bleeding.
This excessive bleeding often occurs in the mouth, nose, ears, and anus. These conditions can be either inherited or acquired.
If you see signs that your canine is suffering from unusual bleeding, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and advice. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of thrombocytopathies in dogs.
Symptoms Of Thrombocytopathies In Dogs
Thrombocytopathies in dogs mostly produce the symptom of bleeding that may be both excessive and spontaneous. Some of the places where this bleeding most often occurs include:
- Mouth
- Anus
- Nose
- Gums
- Ears
Causes Of Thrombocytopathies In Dogs
The causes of thrombocytopathies in dogs can be either inherited, meaning that a dog is born with it, or acquired later in life.
In cases where a condition is inherited, some of the breeds that have the highest predisposition include:
- Great Pyrenees
- Basset Hounds
- American Cocker Spaniels
- Otterhounds
- Gray Collies
Additionally, inherited cases may come about due to von Willebrand disease.
In acquired cases, some of the most common causes include:
- Response to drugs (including antibiotics and painkillers)
- Parasitic diseases
- Liver diseases
- Cancer
- Kidney diseases
Veterinary Treatments
If you suspect that your dog has developed thrombocytopathies, then your veterinarian will want to carry out a full physical examination. A comprehensive series of tests will be part of this process, including blood and urine tests.
The vet will analyze your dog’s blood test for whether it can clot effectively.
When it comes to treatment, oftentimes dogs will need a blood platelet transfusion. In cases of where there’s an underlying disease at play, vets will take steps to treat that specific condition too.
While your dog recovers from treatment at home, it is advisable that you limit the amount of physical activity your dog receives and modify their diet to include more soft foods. Your vet can help advise you on how to safely switch your dog’s diet.
Has your dog ever developed thrombocytopathies? What steps did your vet take to treat your canine friend? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
