Discovering blood in your cat’s poop can be alarming for any pet owner. It’s a sign that something isn’t right with your feline friend’s digestive system, and it’s important to understand the potential causes and when to seek veterinary help. While it can sometimes be due to minor issues, Blood In Cat Faeces, also known as hematochezia or melena depending on the type of blood, can also indicate more serious underlying health conditions. This article will explore the common reasons for blood in cat poop, helping you to be informed and proactive about your cat’s health.
Common Causes of Blood in Cat Poop
There are various reasons why your cat might have blood in their stool. The appearance of the blood can sometimes give clues about the source of the bleeding. Fresh, bright red blood usually indicates bleeding in the lower digestive tract, such as the colon or rectum. Dark, tarry blood, on the other hand, often suggests bleeding higher up in the digestive system, like the stomach or small intestine. Here are some of the most common causes:
Parasitic Infections
Parasites are a frequent culprit, especially in kittens or cats with weakened immune systems. Certain parasites, like Giardia and Tritrichomonas, can cause inflammation and irritation in the intestines, leading to bloody stool. These parasites are often contracted through contaminated water or faeces and can cause diarrhoea along with blood in the poop.
Food Intolerance or Allergies
Just like humans, cats can develop intolerances or allergies to certain foods. When a cat eats something their system can’t tolerate, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset, which may manifest as vomiting, diarrhoea, and sometimes blood in their faeces. Identifying and eliminating the offending food from their diet is crucial in these cases.
Colitis
Colitis refers to the inflammation of the colon, or large intestine. This condition is a common cause of fresh blood and mucus in cat poop. Colitis can be triggered by various factors, including stress, parasites, food sensitivities, or bacterial infections. Cats with colitis often experience diarrhoea that contains visible bright red blood.
Infections
Both bacterial and viral infections can lead to blood in a cat’s stool. Bacterial infections like Salmonella can severely irritate the intestinal lining, causing bleeding. Furthermore, serious viral diseases such as Feline Panleukopenia (FPV), also known as feline distemper, can cause significant damage to the digestive tract, resulting in bloody diarrhoea and other severe symptoms.
Anal Gland Problems
If you notice fresh blood primarily on the surface of your cat’s poop or around their anus, anal gland issues should be considered. Cats have two small sacs, called anal glands, located on either side of their anus. These glands can become impacted, infected, or abscessed, leading to discomfort and bleeding, which can be evident on their stool.
Stress
Stress can significantly impact a cat’s digestive system. In sensitive cats, stress can lead to gastrointestinal upset, sometimes severe enough to cause inflammation and bleeding in the intestines, resulting in blood in their poop. Identifying and reducing stressors in a cat’s environment is important for their overall health.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can also be a cause of blood in cat poop. While pancreatitis often presents with symptoms like vomiting and loss of appetite, it can also cause diarrhoea, which in some cases may contain blood. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion, and its inflammation can disrupt normal digestive processes.
Medications
Certain medications can have side effects that irritate the gastrointestinal tract and lead to bleeding. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids, commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in cats, are known to potentially cause gut irritation and bleeding as a side effect. Always discuss potential side effects with your veterinarian when your cat is prescribed medication.
Rectal Polyps
Rectal polyps are benign growths in the large intestine. While non-cancerous, these polyps can become inflamed or irritated, causing them to bleed. This bleeding can then be noticed as fresh blood in your cat’s faeces.
Cancer
Although less common, cancer in the gastrointestinal tract is a serious potential cause of blood in cat poop. Tumors in the gut can ulcerate and bleed, leading to the presence of either fresh or digested blood in the stool, or sometimes both. If blood in the stool is persistent and other causes are ruled out, cancer may need to be investigated.
Toxins
Ingestion of toxins, particularly rat poison, can lead to internal bleeding, which can manifest as blood in the stool. Rat poisons often interfere with blood clotting, causing bleeding throughout the body, including the digestive tract. If you suspect your cat has ingested poison, immediate veterinary attention is critical.
Bleeding Disorders
Underlying bleeding or clotting disorders can also cause blood in a cat’s poop. These conditions can impair the body’s ability to stop bleeding, leading to spontaneous bleeding in various areas, including the digestive system. Cats with bleeding disorders may also show other signs like bruising easily or nosebleeds.
Conclusion
Discovering blood in your cat’s poop is a sign that warrants attention. While this article outlines many potential causes, it’s crucial to remember that it is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you observe blood in your cat’s faeces, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to ensuring your cat’s health and well-being. Do not hesitate to seek veterinary care when you notice this symptom in your feline companion.
