What are the repercussions of a Type B transfusion given to a Type A cat?

In the context of blood transfusions in cats, particularly when considering a Type B transfusion given to a Type A cat, the repercussions can be severe due to the presence of naturally occurring antibodies against Type B blood in Type A individuals.

Cats that are Type A have antibodies against Type B red blood cells, meaning that when Type B blood is transfused into a Type A cat, those antibodies will attack the transfused Type B red blood cells. This can lead to hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells, which may result in a gradual decrease in packed cell volume (PCV). This situation typically takes time to manifest rather than causing an immediate reaction, which aligns with the observed phenomenon of decreased RBC lifespan.

While some immediate reactions can occur if the antibodies are in high enough concentration, the primary and more relevant consequence of a mismatched transfusion is the gradual decline in the number of circulating red blood cells. This can lead to clinical signs of anemia over time rather than an explosive or acute reaction.

The other options imply immediate or severe outcomes, which are not characteristic of the typical immunological response in this scenario, nor do they align with the clinical behavior of Type A cats receiving Type B blood. Hence, the focus on the gradual decrease