Xenotransfusion in an African Pygmy Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) Using Whole Blood From a Domestic Cat (Felis...

To describe the diagnosis, management, and outcome of a hedgehog that received a xenotransfusion of type A feline whole blood for treatment of severe anemia.

A 1-year-old female hedgehog was presented for hematuria and hyporexia. A firm, immobile mass was palpated within the caudal abdomen in the region of the uterus and urinary bladder. Focal ultrasound of the reproductive tract was suspicious for pathology within the uterus. The hedgehog was anemic with a PCV of 14% and total plasma protein concentration of 60 g/L (6.0 g/dL). A modified slide crossmatch using whole blood from the hedgehog and a feline donor was performed, showing no signs of agglutination. After this, a xenotransfusion of feline blood was performed before and during ovariohysterectomy surgery. The hedgehog recovered from surgery and anesthesia well. Subsequent PCVs were 14% at 48 h and 7% at 72 h posttransfusion. Complete blood count showed a strongly regenerative anemia. Clinically, the hedgehog had pink mucous membranes and was maintaining energy levels and appetite. The hedgehog was discharged 4 days after initial presentation. The PCV was 44% at the hedgehog's 2-week recheck examination.

This is the first report of a xenotransfusion of feline whole blood to a hedgehog. Although the hedgehog in this case had a positive outcome, xenotransfusion should be used with caution and only when species-specific blood is not available. Blood transfusions can be a life-saving procedure in small mammals and should be considered for immediate, short-term stabilization in severely anemic hedgehogs.