Is Your Cat Pooping Blood? Here's What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know
Laura Evans |
January 17, 2024
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As a dedicated cat parent, spotting blood in your cat’s stool can be a deeply alarming experience. It’s essential to understand that while this can be a sign of a minor issue, it could also indicate a more severe health concern. This blog post aims to guide you through understanding the potential causes, necessary actions, and ways to support your furry friend during this distressing time.
It’s normal for cat stool to have a slight red or brownish tint to it. But If you’re seeing bright red, then there’s no doubt about it, your cat has a bloody stool, and needs help.
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What Causes Blood in a Cat's Stool?
Bloody stool in cats, medically termed as hematochezia or melena, can stem from various causes, ranging from dietary indiscretions to serious medical conditions.
Dietary Issues: Sudden changes in diet, food intolerances, or ingesting something inappropriate can lead to gastrointestinal upset, resulting in blood in the stool.
Parasites: Parasitic infections like hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms are common culprits, especially in puppies.
Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause bloody diarrhea. Parvovirus, particularly in unvaccinated cats, is a notorious example.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Chronic conditions like IBD can lead to bloody stool, often accompanied by weight loss and vomiting.
Trauma or Injuries: Internal injuries, anal gland issues, or even severe constipation can lead to bleeding.
Cancer: Though less common, gastrointestinal cancers can manifest as blood in stool.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you notice blood in your cat’s stool, it’s crucial to act promptly:
Assess the Situation: Note the amount, frequency, and appearance of blood. Fresh, red blood often suggests lower intestinal issues, while darker, tarry stools imply bleeding in the upper intestines.
Check for Other Symptoms: Observe if your cat shows signs of distress, pain, lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
Contact Your Vet: Regardless of the severity, a veterinary consultation is vital. Even if your cat seems normal otherwise, don’t delay seeking professional advice. Note that if your vet is not open, some services provide live chat and video options to connect you with a vet).
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Diagnostic Tests and Treatment
Your vet might suggest several diagnostic tests, such as fecal examinations, blood tests, ultrasounds, or endoscopy, to determine the cause. Treatment varies based on the diagnosis and may include:
- Dietary changes or bland diets for minor upsets.
- Deworming medications for parasitic infections.
- Antibiotics or antiviral drugs for infections.
- Surgery in cases of severe trauma or tumors.
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What if Your Cat Also Has Diarrhea or Is Vomiting?
If your cat is also vomiting or has diarrhea, it may be hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. This serious condition is most common in small and toy breed cats (Young Miniature Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and Maltese seem to be more commonly affected) and requires prompt veterinary care.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is a life-threatening disease. Cats with this condition will appear severely ill and, if left untreated, may die. If your cat has this condition, it will need to be hospitalized and go under intensive treatment. If you are unsure, it’s strongly recommended to call your vet or, out of hours, a 24/7 telehealth helpline. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
As a dedicated cat parent, spotting blood in your cat’s stool can be a deeply alarming experience. It’s essential to understand that while this can be a sign of a minor issue, it could also indicate a more severe health concern. This blog post aims to guide you through understanding the potential causes, necessary actions, and ways to support your furry friend during this distressing time.
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