Changes

==Blood groups==

==Blood groups==

The number of blood groups varies between the domestic species, cattle have the most complex blood systems while cats are quite simple.

The number of blood groups varies between the domestic species and are determined by antigenic components on the surface of the red blood cells. Cattle have the most complex blood systems while cats are quite simple.

In order to achieve a safe transfusion blood typing and sometimes crossmatching of the donor and recipient patient is required. Blood groups are determined by antigenic components.

Normally an animal will not hve antibodies against antigens present on the surfaceof its own red blood cells or against blood group antigens of that species unless they have been produced following pregnancy, a previous transfusion or a vaccine reaction.  

In order to achieve a safe transfusion blood typing and sometimes crossmatching of the donor and recipient patient is required. Transfusion of the incorrect blood type can lead to haemolytic transfusion reactions which can be fatal.