Disease overview

Haemophilia B, also known as Factor IX deficiency, is a herediatary coagulation disorder resulting in excessive bleeding. It is an X chromosome-linked disorder, resulting in a higher proportion of male cats developing the disease.

Gene name

F9

Inheritance

X-linked

Signs and symptoms

Cats with haemophilia B will bleed excessively following physical trauma or surgery. The disease will often appear before 6 months of age. In some cases, cats can begin bleeding internally and will show signs of weakness, inability to walk properly, bruising, inappetence, and fever. In severe cases, this condition can be lethal.

How is it diagnosed

Haemophilia B is suspected if the cat demonstrates the previously mentioned signs and symptoms, as well as excessive bleeding. Clinical tests (platelet count and activated clotting time) will show a defect in clotting.

Breeds at higher risk

Current data does not indicate that specific breeds are at a higher risk.

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15822564/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.