How do I prick for blood from an anemic cat?

[RionKatt]

Does anyone know how to draw blood for blood glucose tests? His ears are too frayed and his paws doesn't seem to have much circulation through them. I had called the vet and confirmed that my cat Oscar is indeed anemic.

 

[Mogmom and Goofus]

With the paw pads, try rubbing/pulling down on the leg you want to test for a minute or so. Rub all the way down and squeeze the pad a bit. This might help.

 

[Squalliesmom]

My former vet taught me how to draw blood with a syringe from a vein on the inside of the hind leg, I have no idea why when pricking the ears is usually so much easier. But it might be an option for you. For me, it was definitely not a one-man job, though. I always used the ears.

 

[Squalliesmom]

By the way, Oscar is a real cutie, love his avatar pic! Lots of character in that little face.

 

[Mogmom and Goofus]

By the way, Oscar is a real cutie, love his avatar pic! Lots of character in that little face.

He's so cute, he looks kind of like an animated cat.

 

[Chris & China (GA)]

Are you heating his ear before poking? A small sock with some rice that's microwaved (about 20 seconds) or a small pill bottle filled with warm water are both good ways to warm the ear

Warming brings blood to the ear so it's easier

If his ears are really fuzzy, some people will shave the edge, or you can try putting thin film of vaseline along the edge to help get the blood to "bead up" instead of wicking into the fur

 

[Melanie and Smokey]

If he truly is anemic then you don't want to be try to do vein draws, frequent vein draws makes anemia worse.

I use much more of the ear than the pictures usually depict. I will poke on the outside edge of the eat anywhere other than to top approx 1/4-1/2 inch tip of the ear. The ears really do "learn" to bleed. Each time you poke it encourages growth of new capillaries and they will bleed better in the future. Heating, rubbing to get blood flow with help.

He really is adorable!