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If you notice blood in your cat’s stool, it’s important not to panic but to take action. There can be many different reasons for this condition, including diarrhea, constipation or even growth spurts. When you clean your cat’s litter box, it’s important to make sure that their stools are healthy and blood-free. If you notice blood or if your cat has unusual stools for several days, you should contact your veterinarian. In this article, let Beaconpet explore the possible causes of blood in your cat’s stool, what to do if your cat has bloody stool, and how to treat and prevent the condition. Understanding and resolving the problem promptly will help ensure the health of your beloved pet.
Causes of Blood in Cat Stool
Diarrhea
One of the common causes of blood in a cat’s stool is diarrhea. Diarrhea can cause irritation of the lining of the lower gastrointestinal tract, leading to bleeding. When a cat has diarrhea or soft stools, they may start to appear bloody after a couple of days. Diarrhea in cats can be caused by various factors such as stress, dietary changes or intolerance, parasites, infections, toxin exposure, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Constipation
Constipation is another possible cause of blood in a cat’s stool. When a cat is constipated, they may strain to defecate, which can lead to ruptured blood vessels in the lower gastrointestinal tract. The stool often appears hard and small and may have blood on the outside. Constipation in cats can be caused by various factors such as stress, dietary changes or intolerance, parasites, foreign bodies, and certain medical conditions.
Growths
Growths like polyps, cysts, and tumors can also cause blood in a cat’s stool. These growths can lead to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in blood being present in the feces. Growths in the gastrointestinal tract can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may require further evaluation and treatment by a veterinarian.
GI Problems
Many diseases and disorders can cause gastrointestinal (GI) problems in cats, leading to blood in the stool. These conditions can range from infections and inflammatory bowel disease to more serious issues like gastrointestinal ulcers or tumors. In some cases, the stool may appear normal, except for the presence of blood. Dark-colored stools that look tarry or resemble coffee grounds may also indicate bleeding somewhere in the GI tract, such as the small intestine or stomach.
UTI
While blood in the litter box may be from the stool, it can also be present in the urine, especially if a urinary tract infection (UTI) is present. If you notice droplets of blood in the litter and on the sides of the box, it’s essential to consider the possibility of a UTI in addition to examining the stool.
What to Do if Your Cat Has Bloody Stool
If you notice blood in your cat’s stool, it’s important to take action and seek veterinary care. Here are some steps you can take:
Contact Your Vet for Abnormal Bowel Movements
If your cat’s bowel movements are abnormal for a few days, even if you don’t see blood in the stool, it’s crucial to contact your vet. Abnormal bowel movements can indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed to prevent further complications.
Monitor Your Cat Closely
If your cat’s stool has been normal, and you see some blood one time, it’s important to monitor your cat closely for the next day or two. Keep an eye on their behavior and overall health. If your cat shows any signs of illness or you see blood again, it’s time to visit your vet.
Contact Your Vet for Diarrhea
If your cat has had diarrhea for a day or two, contact your vet to determine the cause and help resolve it. Diarrhea can lead to irritation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, so it’s essential to address the issue promptly.
Contact Your Vet for Constipation
If your cat has not had a bowel movement in a couple of days or is straining to defecate, it’s important to contact your vet. Constipation can lead to discomfort and potential complications, including bleeding in the stool.
Full Examination by Vet
When determining the cause of your cat’s bloody stool, your vet will perform a full examination. This examination will help identify any noticeable abnormalities and provide insights into potential underlying problems.
Stool Sample and Lab Tests
A stool sample may be required to check for parasites and bacterial overgrowth. Additionally, your vet may recommend lab tests to assess blood cell count, organ function, and urinary tract health.
Abdominal Radiographs and Ultrasound
In some cases, your vet may also recommend abdominal radiographs (X-rays) or an ultrasound to get a better look at the digestive system. These imaging techniques can help identify any growths, foreign bodies, or structural abnormalities that may be causing the blood in the stool.
Treatment & Prevention
The treatment and prevention of blood in a cat’s stool will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:
Depends on the Cause of Blood in Stool
The treatment for bloody stools will vary based on the specific cause. For example, if an acute illness is not found, your vet may recommend GI support medications and supplements to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
GI Support Medications and Supplements
GI support medications and supplements, such as probiotics, may be recommended by your vet for a certain period of time to help restore the balance in the gastrointestinal tract and promote healthy digestion.
Diet Change
In some cases, a diet change may be necessary to address the underlying cause of blood in the stool. Your vet may recommend a special diet or modifications to your cat’s current diet to promote gastrointestinal health.
Routine Parasite Screening
Regular parasite screening is important for all cats, but it becomes even more crucial if your cat has abnormal stools. Your vet may recommend parasite screening at least once a year or more frequently if needed. Identifying and treating any parasitic infections can help prevent gastrointestinal issues that may lead to bloody stool.
Relieving Constipation and Identifying its Cause
If constipation is the cause of blood in your cat’s stool, your vet can help relieve your cat’s discomfort and determine the underlying cause. They may recommend dietary changes, medication, or other interventions to alleviate constipation and prevent future occurrences.
Remember, it’s important to follow your vet’s advice and recommendations for the specific treatment and prevention measures based on your cat’s condition and individual needs.
In conclusion, if you notice blood in your cat’s stool, it’s crucial to contact your vet for proper evaluation and treatment. Identifying the underlying cause is important for effective management and prevention strategies. By working closely with your vet, you can ensure that your cat receives the appropriate care to promote their overall health and well-being.
