Introduction: Identification of post blood donation reactions is of importance, not only by ethical reasons, but also to ensure the trust and commitment of pet owners in a blood bank program. These reactions may be acute or delayed (ugp to 5 days after the donation) and were described as swelling/hematoma or bleeding of the puncture sites, inappetence, lethargy, dermatitis/skin reactions, pale mucous membranes, abnormal behaviour, increased capillary refill time and weak pulses.

Objective: The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the frequency of acute and delayed adverse reactions in cats after blood donation.

Methods: Adverse reactions during donation and up to 2 hours post donation were directly registered in the donor's file. A standard telephone survey was conducted to the owners of feline blood donors 5 days after the donation. For each of the possible reactions a “yes” or “no” was attributed accordingly to the answer. Comments were allowed at the end of the questionnaire.

Results: In January and February 2019, data from 345 feline donations was obtained. No acute or delayed post donation reactions were identified in 337 donors. One developed a haematoma in the catheterized forelimb, fully absorbed after one week with no need for medical assistance.

Seven showed abnormal behaviour up to 24 hours post donation. One of the donors urinated in an unusual place; four others were very upset, hissing at the companions; one was very scared till late that evening; and another donor was very sleepy for 24 hours. All the behaviours returned to normality within 3 days.

Discussion/Conclusion: Whilst post blood donation reactions in cats are possible, they are uncommon, near 2.3% according to our study. A careful pre-donation examination to ensure the donor’s good health; careful punctures for catheter placement (if sedated) and for donation to minimize the chance of haematoma/swelling/bleeding; and providing a calm environment and trained staff that reduces the stress levels, will help decreasing the chances of post donation adverse reactions. This survey was highly valued by the owners, increasing their commitment with the blood bank.