Retrospective evaluation of fresh frozen plasma use in 121 cats: 2009-2016

To document indications for fresh frozen plasma (FFP) use in cats, doses administered, and frequency of adverse transfusion reactions (ATR).

Retrospective observational study from January 2009 to November 2016.

Large urban referral and emergency facility.

One hundred twenty-one client-owned cats that received FFP.

None.

Signalment, indication(s), dose, pre- and posttransfusion total plasma protein, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, as well as possible ATR, primary disease process, and outcome were recorded. Doppler blood pressure was increased posttransfusion (mean pre 99.5 ± 30.8 mm Hg; post 108.5 ± 32.5 mm Hg, P = .027). Cats were significantly less likely to be coagulopathic posttransfusion (P < 0.001). Most common indications were suspected coagulopathy (n = 105, 83%), hemorrhage (n = 45, 35%), and hypotension (n = 32, 25%). Median dose was 6 mL/kg (interquartile range = 3 mL/kg) and was negatively correlated with body weight (r = -.598, P < 0.001). Possible ATR occurred in 17 of 108 (16%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 10-24%) of transfusions. Increased body temperature was most common in 11 of 108 (10%, 95% CI, 5-18%), followed by tachypnea/dyspnea in 8 of 108 (7%, 95% CI, 3-13%). Common primary disease processes included liver disease (n = 41, 34%), neoplasia (n = 19, 16%), and sepsis (n = 15, 12%). Overall mortality was 54%. Improvement of clotting times was associated with increased odds of survival (odds ratio = 2.4; 95% CI, 1.1-5.3; P = 0.023).

Clinician justifications for FFP transfusions are comparable to that reported in dogs; however, the mL/kg dose is lower. Coagulopathy and blood pressure significantly improve posttransfusion. Possible ATR were as frequent as that reported with feline packed RBCs transfusions and classified as mild.