A Loughborough-based charity has secured official government approval to establish the first national blood donation service for cats, aiming to provide lifesaving transfusions for millions of pets facing emergency medical situations. Until now, access to feline blood products has been severely limited, forcing veterinarians to scramble for local donors during crises, causing high stress for families and delaying treatment for critically ill animals.
Expanding a Proven Model
The organisation, Pet Blood Bank UK, has successfully operated a similar donation service for dogs across the country since 2007. The new feline service will leverage this experience to address a long-standing gap in veterinary care. The charity is now seeking large, healthy, and confident cats to join the register.
Wendy Barnett, founder and Clinical Director of Pet Blood Bank UK, stated: "We know how much a dedicated service for cats is needed, having heard that message clearly from vets over many years. We are absolutely delighted that we can now say it is happening. This has been a long time in the making, and we’re incredibly proud to be taking this next step to support cats, their owners, and the vet teams who take care of them."
Lifesaving Impact
When a pet is involved in an accident or develops a severe illness, a quick transfusion can mean the difference between life and death. The charity already supplies thousands of canine blood products annually and will now extend this welfare-focused care to felines. Animal comfort is a top priority: cats will remain awake in a quiet room with their owner present, and sessions will be stopped immediately if any signs of distress or unhappiness appear.
Health Checks and Rewards
Every participating cat receives a free health check and a heart scan before being allowed to donate blood. Volunteers are also given food and treats during the session, along with a goody bag to take home. Barnett added: "We understand that coming along to a donation session will feel unfamiliar and daunting for many owners and cats. That’s why everything we do is built around stress reduction and making the experience a safe, comfortable, and positive one for you and your cat. Your cat’s welfare is always our priority, and everything we do is on their terms."
Eligibility and Registration
To join the lifesaving register, cats must be fit and healthy, aged between one and eight years old, and weigh 4.5kg or more. They must also be comfortable being handled by medical staff and happy to travel inside a normal carrier. Both indoor and outdoor pets are welcome to participate at various donation sessions held across the country. Registration is completely free, and owners can find more details or sign up online at www.petbloodbankuk.org.
