Platelets, produced in the bone marrow, are small, cell-like particles that start the formation of blood clots. Platelets gather where bleeding occurs and clump together to form the initial plug that stops or slows down the flow of blood. Platelets also release other substances needed to complete the clotting process.
Platelet disorders can result from having too few or too many platelets or from impaired function. When the platelet count falls very low, the risk of bleeding is increased. Decreased production of platelets may be caused by drugs, toxins, or disorders of the bone marrow. Platelets can also be inappropriately destroyed in the blood by the cat's own immune system. Conditions that consume a large number of platelets (such as massive bleeding or severe clotting disorders) can also deplete platelet numbers. Finally, large numbers of platelets can become trapped in an enlarged spleen, decreasing the number of platelets in the blood.
An abnormal increase in the number of platelets is rare and often the cause is not known. It may be associated with bone marrow disease or with longterm blood loss and iron deficiency.
There are also disorders in which platelets do not function properly. Von Willebrand disease is one example. Other hereditary disorders of platelet function have been described but are rare. Probably the most common platelet function defect in animals is a side effect of aspirin. Do not give your cat aspirin—or any other medication—unless it is prescribed by your veterinarian.
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Also see professional content regarding platelets.
