Why Does My Cat Have Blood In His Poop? [Causes & Remedy]

As a cat owner, one of the most distressing experiences can be noticing blood in your cat’s stool. While it can be alarming, it’s essential to approach the situation with calm and focus, as blood in a cat’s poop can have a variety of causes. From relatively minor issues like dietary changes to more serious health concerns like infections or gastrointestinal disorders, understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek professional help are crucial steps in safeguarding your feline’s health. This comprehensive guide will delve into the possible reasons why your cat might have blood in its poop, helping you make informed decisions about how to respond and when to consult a veterinarian.

Why Does My Cat Have Blood In His Poop?

Blood in your cat’s stool can be categorized into two types based on its appearance and where it originates in the gastrointestinal tract. The first type is hematochezia, which refers to fresh, bright red blood that is typically seen on or around the stool. This usually suggests bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as the colon or rectum. The second type is melena, which is dark, tarry, or black stool, indicating that the blood has been digested and has come from the upper gastrointestinal tract (like the stomach or small intestine). Understanding the nature of the blood in your cat’s stool can help identify the cause more effectively.

The presence of blood often points to an underlying issue, ranging from something relatively harmless like constipation to something more serious, such as an infection or inflammatory bowel disease. While a one-off incident of blood in your cat’s stool may not necessarily be an immediate cause for alarm, recurring instances should always be taken seriously, as they could indicate a deeper health problem that requires attention.

Common Reasons

There are several reasons why a cat might have blood in their stool. Here are the most common causes:

1. Gastrointestinal Infections

Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites are some of the most frequent culprits behind bloody stool in cats. Conditions such as salmonella, E. coli, parvovirus, or giardia can lead to inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding in the digestive tract. Cats may also experience diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and appetite loss in conjunction with these infections.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a condition where the cat’s intestines become chronically inflamed. It often leads to blood in the stool as well as symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. The inflammation can cause damage to the lining of the intestines, leading to bleeding.

3. Constipation Or Straining

When a cat is constipated or straining to pass stool, the excessive pressure can cause small tears or injuries in the anus or rectum, leading to bright red blood on the stool. This is often associated with hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. While this may seem like a minor issue, chronic constipation can lead to other complications like megacolon, which requires medical intervention.

4. Dietary Changes Or Food Sensitivities

A sudden change in diet, introduction of new food, or food sensitivities can upset your cat’s digestive system and lead to blood in the stool. Food allergies or intolerances, particularly to proteins like beef or dairy, can cause irritation or inflammation in the intestines, which may lead to bleeding. Additionally, ingesting spoiled food or human foods can result in gastrointestinal upset and bloody stool.

5. Parasites

Parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, or tapeworms can cause intestinal bleeding. In addition to blood in the stool, affected cats may also show signs like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or visible worms in the feces. Kittens and young cats are particularly vulnerable to parasitic infections.

6. Trauma Or Injury

Injuries to the anus or rectum, either from fighting, falls, or even excessive grooming, can result in blood in the stool. These types of injuries often cause fresh, bright red blood. If your cat has recently had an accident or altercation, check for any signs of external injuries as well.

7. Cancer

Though less common, tumors in the intestines or rectum can cause blood in a cat’s stool. These tumors may be benign or malignant, and in addition to blood, you may notice changes in your cat’s behavior, weight loss, or a change in appetite. Cancer is a serious concern and requires veterinary evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When To Be Concerned

While occasional blood in your cat’s stool might not necessarily be a cause for immediate panic, there are several signs that indicate you should seek veterinary advice. If the blood is persistent, frequent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as:

• Severe lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea, especially if it’s bloody or greenish
• Loss of appetite or significant weight loss
• Changes in behavior, such as hiding or unusual vocalizations
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., dry gums, sunken eyes)
• Painful defecation or noticeable difficulty passing stool

If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly. A timely diagnosis can prevent the condition from worsening and allow for appropriate treatment, which is particularly important for serious conditions like infections, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease.

How To Respond As A Cat Owner

As a cat owner, it’s important to respond promptly but calmly when you discover blood in your cat’s stool. Here’s how you can approach the situation:

1. Monitor Your Cat’s Health: Keep track of your cat’s overall health and behavior. Take note of any additional symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.

2. Examine the Stool: If possible, examine the stool to determine the type of blood—whether it’s fresh and red or dark and tarry. Fresh blood is more likely to be caused by a lower gastrointestinal issue, while dark stool suggests an upper GI problem.

3. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While you might suspect a specific cause (like food sensitivity or constipation), avoid jumping to conclusions. Many conditions share similar symptoms, so it’s best to seek professional advice.

4. Keep a Record: Take notes on how often the blood appears, what the stool looks like, and any changes in your cat’s behavior. This will help your veterinarian make a more accurate diagnosis.

5. Limit Stress: Stress can worsen certain gastrointestinal conditions, so try to keep your cat’s environment calm and reduce any potential stressors, such as loud noises, unfamiliar guests, or changes in routine.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cat’s health. If your cat has blood in its stool, it’s time to consult a veterinarian if:

• The blood persists for more than a day or two.
• Your cat shows signs of severe illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
• The blood appears to be mixed with mucus, or there’s a significant amount of blood present.
• Your cat is young, elderly, or has a pre-existing medical condition that could complicate recovery.

Your veterinarian will likely perform a thorough examination, which may include stool tests, blood work, and possibly imaging, to determine the cause of the bleeding. Based on the diagnosis, treatment can range from dietary changes and medications to more serious interventions, such as surgery or chemotherapy, if required.

Conclusion

Finding blood in your cat’s stool can be a concerning experience, but it doesn’t always indicate an emergency. By understanding the possible causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care, you can ensure your cat gets the appropriate treatment. From gastrointestinal infections and dietary issues to more serious conditions like cancer, early diagnosis and intervention are key to preventing complications. Always monitor your cat’s behavior, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if you’re unsure about the severity of the situation. With proper care and attention, most causes of blood in your cat’s stool can be treated effectively, ensuring your feline friend remains healthy and happy.

FAQs

What Are The Common Causes Of Blood In A Cat’s Poop?

Blood in a cat’s poop can be caused by various issues, including intestinal parasites, dietary changes, food intolerances, infections, inflammation of the digestive tract (colitis), or more serious conditions like cancer or trauma to the rectum.

Can Stress Cause Blood In A Cat’s Stool?

Yes, stress can lead to conditions like colitis or gastrointestinal upset, which might result in blood in the stool. Stress-induced blood is often linked to behavioral or environmental changes.

Should I Be Concerned If My Cat’s Poop Has Bright Red Blood?

Bright red blood in stool (hematochezia) usually indicates bleeding from the lower intestinal tract, such as the colon or rectum. While it may not always be serious, it warrants a veterinary evaluation to determine the cause.

What Should I Do If My Cat Has Dark, Tarry Stools?

Dark, tarry stools (melena) suggest digested blood from the upper gastrointestinal tract. This is often more serious and could indicate ulcers, bleeding disorders, or ingestion of blood. A vet should examine your cat immediately.

Can Dietary Changes Cause Blood In A Cat’s Poop?

Yes, abrupt dietary changes can cause gastrointestinal irritation, leading to diarrhea or blood in the stool. Transitioning to a new diet gradually can help prevent such issues.

Are Intestinal Parasites A Common Cause Of Bloody Stools In Cats?

Yes, intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, or protozoa like coccidia can damage the intestinal lining, causing blood in the stool. A fecal test can confirm their presence.

How Can I Tell If My Cat’s Blood In Stool Is An Emergency?

It is an emergency if the blood is accompanied by symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or significant weight loss. Immediate veterinary care is needed.

Could Bloody Stools Indicate Cancer In Cats?

While not the most common cause, certain cancers like intestinal lymphoma or adenocarcinoma can cause blood in the stool. A vet may recommend diagnostic imaging or biopsies to investigate further.

Can Constipation Cause Blood In A Cat’s Poop?

Yes, constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, which may cause small tears or irritation in the rectum, resulting in blood in the stool.

What Tests Might A Vet Perform To Diagnose Blood In My Cat’s Stool?

A vet might perform a fecal examination, blood tests, ultrasound, X-rays, or endoscopy to determine the underlying cause of blood in the stool. They may also inquire about the cat’s diet, lifestyle, and recent changes.