Feline blood donation via cephalic intravenous catheter: A novel method

Background Feline jugular blood donation requires heavy sedation or a very compliant cat. Donation using an intravenous catheter requires less restraint and potentially decreases stress. Methods This was an observational study of feline blood donors at a veterinary hospital between February and June 2023. Blood donation through a standard cephalic catheter was attempted in cats that were anticipated not to tolerate jugular donation. The percentage haemolysis of the donated packed red blood cells was then calculated for catheter and jugular donations. Results Forty‐six donations were performed over the study period. The catheter donation method was used successfully in 13 cats, of which eight were not sedated and five were mildly sedated with butorphanol and/or gabapentin. In four cats, a combination of jugular and catheter donation methods was used (all sedated). In 29 cats, the jugular method alone was used; four of these cats were sedated. The mean percentage haemolysis of the packed red blood cells from 11 catheter donations and 11 jugular donations was 0.21% (standard deviation: 0.11, range: 0.10–0.43%) and 0.20% (standard deviation: 0.14, range: 0.01–0.54%), respectively. These values were not significantly different. Limitation Cats had been selected for a calm temperament. Conclusion Although not possible in all cats, intravenous catheter donation can be a successful method for blood donation.