Blood in Cat Poo
Your cat's poop is a valuable indicator of their overall health, helping you understand how their body is functioning and ensuring everything is normal.
Normally, cat poop should be firm and brown, but if you notice bright red, fresh blood in your cat's stool, it can be a sign of a larger issue.
Blood in cat stool can have many different causes, ranging from stress to severe, life threatening health problems. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about blood in cat poop, including potential causes, such as digestive tract issues and abnormal cell counts, and available treatment options. Understanding these signs and knowing when your cat needs blood work can help ensure their health. Keep an eye on your litter box for any changes, and consult your vet if you notice anything unusual, especially in severe cases where the poop is hard or your cat shows other signs of distress.
Blood in cat poo
Bright or light red blood
Blood in your cat's feces often appears as flecks, with the color and amount indicating the severity of internal bleeding and its origin. Bright or light red blood typically signifies bleeding from the lower intestinal tract. According to Dr. Justin Molnar, DVM, this can be a sign of colitis inflammation caused by dietary issues, stress, parasites, or stool constipation. Monitoring these cat signs is crucial for cat health, and an appointment with a veterinarian can help identify any underlying conditions and assess blood cell health.
Dark or black blood
If the blood in your cat's stool appears dark red or black and resembles coffee grounds, it suggests partial digestion by enzymes in the small intestine, which usually points to internal bleeding higher up the intestinal tract. This could be a serious issue, such as a blockage. Observing these cat signs is crucial for understanding your cat’s health. An appointment with a veterinarian can help identify any underlying conditions, such as colitis inflammation, and assess blood cell health, especially if stress or stool constipation might be contributing factors.
Blood in cat diarrhoea
If your cat's poop is loose and contains blood spots, it’s likely due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which affects the sensitivity of the digestive tract. IBS can result in frequent trips to the litter box, but it may also lead to constipation, vomiting, or fresh blood and blood mucus in the stool. Stress is a primary cause of IBS, though dietary changes and intestinal parasites can also trigger it. If you notice bright red blood or any concerning changes in your cat's stool, including blood in diarrhea, it’s important to get an x ray and visit the vet. The veterinarian can help identify the cause of the bleeding, check for issues like anal gland problems or gastrointestinal tract conditions, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.#
Causes of blood in cat poo
There are several potential causes for blood in cat poop, with the most common being:
- Trauma
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Intestinal parasites
- Food intolerance
- Colitis
- Anal gland issues
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Constipation
- Tumors or polyps
Diagnosis
If your cat’s stool shows bright red blood spots, observe them for a day or two to see if it clears up on its own, as it might be caused by stress or something they ate. If the issue persists, if your cat starts showing signs of illness, such as loss of appetite or weight loss, or if the stool contains dark red or black blood, seek immediate attention from a veterinarian. Darker blood or blood mucus can indicate a more serious problem in the digestive tract.
Your vet will perform a thorough examination, which may include taking samples of your cat’s blood, urine, and stool for testing. Bringing a sample of your cat's stool can help the vet quickly check for intestinal parasites or harmful bacteria. X rays might be used to investigate the gastrointestinal tract for issues like a foreign body or abnormalities. In some cases, the vet may perform an endoscopy to closely examine the lining of the digestive tract if there’s a concern about anal gland issues, hard poop, or other significant problems.
Treatment for blood in cat poop
The first step is to address any potential stress causes affecting your cat, such as a new animal in the home or changes in their routine. If a new pet or person is the cause, provide your cat with a safe space to retreat. For routine changes, revert to the original schedule and gradually introduce the new routine to help your cat adjust.
If the issue relates to a dietary problem or food intolerance, your veterinarian may suggest changing your cat’s food temporarily or implementing an elimination diet to pinpoint the cause.
When dealing with blood in cat poop due to parasites or infections, it is crucial to follow the prescribed treatment completely. Failure to do so may lead to continued issues or worsen the condition. If the blood in cat stool appears dark, it might indicate a more severe problem, such as a blockage in the GI tract, which could require surgery.
If your cat shows additional symptoms along with blood in their stool or experiences hard poop, consult your vet immediately. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the bleed and any underlying issues, ensuring your cat returns to normal health as soon as possible.
FAQ
1. What does cat poop look like?
Healthy cat poop should be medium to dark brown, firm, and well formed, typically resembling a smooth, cylindrical log. It should not have an overpowering odor and should be free from blood in the stool or mucus. If your cat’s poop is hard or dry, it could indicate constipation, while soft or runny stool might suggest cat diarrhea. Regular monitoring of your cat's poop can help identify issues in the digestive tract or GI tract.
2. Why do dogs eat cat poop?
Dogs may eat cat poop due to curiosity, dietary deficiencies, or the appeal of undigested food particles. It can also be a result of boredom or a cleaning instinct. If this behavior continues, consult a veterinarian to address any potential nutritional or health concerns.
3. How to make a cat poop when constipated?
To help a constipated cat poop, ensure they stay well hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water and consider offering wet food to increase their fluid intake. Adding a small amount of fiber to their diet, such as canned pumpkin or a vet recommended fiber supplement, can aid in easing constipation. Regular exercise can also stimulate bowel movements. If these measures don’t help or if your cat shows signs of severe discomfort, consult a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment.
4. How often should a cat poop?
A healthy cat should typically poop once or twice a day. The frequency can vary depending on their diet, hydration, and overall health. Regular bowel movements are a sign of a well functioning digestive system. If a cat’s poop frequency deviates significantly from this range or if there are noticeable changes in stool consistency or appearance, it may indicate a health issue that warrants a consultation with a veterinarian.
5. Why does my cat poop on the floor?
Your cat may poop on the floor due to a variety of reasons, including a dirty or unsuitable litter box, stress or anxiety, medical issues like constipation or diarrhea, or behavioral problems. Changes in the household environment or a new pet can also contribute to this behavior. It’s essential to ensure the litter box is clean and accessible, monitor for signs of illness, and consult a veterinarian if the issue persists or if there are other concerning symptoms.
6. How to clean cat poop from carpet?
To clean cat poop from carpet, first, carefully pick up any solid waste using gloves and a paper towel. Blot the area with a cloth or sponge to absorb excess moisture. Then, apply a carpet cleaner or a mixture of mild detergent and water to the affected area, scrubbing gently to lift the stain. Rinse with clean water and blot dry with a clean towel. For lingering odors, sprinkle baking soda on the area, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up.
7. How to stop dog eating cat poop?
How to stop dog from eating cat poop: home remedies, To stop a dog from eating cat poop, keep the cat's litter box clean and out of the dog's reach by using a covered box or placing it in an area inaccessible to the dog. You can also try using a pet gate or a box with a high rim to prevent access. Adding a deterrent, such as a bitter tasting spray around the litter box area, can help discourage the behavior. Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet may address any nutritional deficiencies driving the behavior.
8. Why does my cat keep getting poop stuck to bum?
Your cat may keep getting poop stuck to its bum due to several reasons, including diarrhea, which can cause loose stool to cling to fur, or a buildup of matted fur around the rear end, which can trap feces. Obesity can also make it difficult for your cat to groom itself properly. Additionally, issues like constipation or anal gland problems might contribute to this issue. Regular grooming, especially around the rear end, and ensuring a balanced diet can help manage this problem.
9. Why did my cat poop on my bed?
Your cat may have pooped on your bed due to stress, anxiety, or changes in their environment, such as a new pet or a disruption in their routine. It could also be a sign of a dirty or inaccessible litter box, medical issues like gastrointestinal problems or constipation, or a behavioral issue. Cats might choose a soft surface like a bed due to its texture or as a way to signal discomfort. To address this behavior, ensure the litter box is clean and accessible.
10. Why does my cat guards me when i poop?
Your cat may guard you while you poop as a sign of affection or a protective instinct. Cats often form strong bonds with their owners and may feel the need to stay close to ensure your safety or simply because they want to be near you. This behavior can also be driven by curiosity or a desire for attention. Additionally, some cats feel more secure when they are near their owners during vulnerable moments. If the behavior is not causing any issues, it's likely just a quirky expression of your cat's bond with you.
Kelly Rushton
Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.
