Anemic CRF kitty needing tranfusion

My kitty Ripley was diagnosed with CRF 2 weeks ago. She is severely anemic and the second opinion vet says she needs a blood transfusion. The hospital the want me to go to approx. cost is $2000, I cannot afford that, especially since her kidney #s are so discouraging. My original vet will do it for around $600. They have an in-house cat for a donor. When I asked about 'blood typing' I was told that animals get the first transfusion 'free', meaning they do not need to type the first time.  Does anyone have any thoughts on this?  She really needs this ASAP, and they said the typing would take another 5 days...

When my Sandra was to get a blood transfusion, the hospital said they would first determine her blood type.  They said most cats are A.  B is not at all common.  I have never heard of 'free' transfusion.  I would call other vets in the area.  What they told you does not seem right.  Sandi's transfusion was $450.  She was also severely anemic (HCT at 15).  The transfusion brought her HCT up to 23.  After that she was put on Aranesp injections which continued to bring her HCT up, but sadly she passed away before we could continue the treatments.  She developed heart disease along with her kidney failure. 

Sending hugs and prayers to you both.