A fatal case of suspected Mycoplasma haemofelis infection in a domestic–persian mixed cat with severe icterus and thrombocytopenia

Feline hemoplasmosis is an infectious cause of hemolytic disease and should be considered in patients with anemia-associated signs and ectoparasite exposure. This report describes a suspected Mycoplasma haemofelis infection in a 1-year-and-5-month-old female domestic–Persian cat with lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, hypersalivation, flea infestation, and icterus of the skin and mucous membranes. Blood count revealed leukocytosis, microcytosis, and thrombocytopenia, and smear showed basophilic organisms associated with erythrocytes, supporting presumptive hemoplasmosis by M. haemofelis. The prognosis was dubius to infausta because of compromise. Treatment consisted of doxycycline at 5 mg/kg with fluids and hematopoietic support. Despite treatment, the patient deteriorated and died within 24 hours. This case highlights recognition, antimicrobial treatment, ectoparasite control, and supportive care.