Cats are intelligent, curious, and playful creatures. We love them for their mysterious, adorable ways, until they fall ill. When your cat experiences diarrhea and blood in her poop, it can be stressful. This article will provide you with an in-depth guide on the causes and solutions to why your cat has blood in her poop.
What is Blood in Cat’s Poop?
Blood in cat’s poop refers to the presence of red, black or brownish-red, tarry stools. This is a sign that there’s bleeding in your cat’s digestive system. The blood may appear as streaks, drops or speckles, depending on the severity of the condition.
Why Do Cats Have Blood in Their Poop?
Blood in cat’s poop can be a symptom of various conditions, including:
1. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a serious condition that mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract of cats. It is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the intestines. This leads to diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. IBD is often accompanied by blood in your cat’s stool.
2. Dietary allergies or intolerances
A diet that doesn’t agree with your cat can cause blood in her poop. Sudden changes in diet or feeding her food that isn’t meant for cats, can irritate her digestive system, causing inflammation and bleeding. This condition can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, and poor overall health.
3. Parasites
Parasites like worms can cause blood in your cat’s stool. These parasites attach themselves to the intestinal wall of your cat, causing inflammation and bleeding. Tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms are the most common parasites affecting cats.
4. Gastrointestinal blockage
Gastrointestinal blockages can cause blood in your cat’s stool. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. If not treated in time, gastrointestinal blockages can be fatal for your cat.
Solutions for Cat’s Bloody Poop
1. Visit a Veterinary
If you notice blood in your cat’s poop, it is essential to take her to the vet immediately. Consulting an expert will determine the root cause of the bleeding and appropriate treatment. Early detection may save your cat’s life.
2. Change in Your Cat’s Diet
If the cause of the bleeding is a sudden diet change or feeding her something not meant for cats, consult with your veterinarian about an appropriate diet. Ensure your cat’s diet is balanced and nutritious, giving her proper nutrients to support overall health.
3. Medications
If your cat is diagnosed with IBD, your veterinarian will prescribe medications to reduce inflammation and soothe the intestines. Appropriate treatment can manage the symptoms, and medication can prevent a recurrence.
4. Deworming
If her poop’s blood is caused by a parasite, the vet will prescribe medicine specifically to remove the parasite. Deworm your cat often and keep her environment clean to prevent a recurrence of worms.
5. Surgery
If it is established that gastrointestinal blockages are causing blood in your cat’s poop, then surgery may be necessary. Surgery can save your cat’s life and prevent complications associated with the blockage.
Common FAQs on Blood in Cat’s Poop
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What does it mean when a cat has blood in her poop?
Blood in your cat’s poop is a sign of bleeding in your cat’s digestive system. It can be caused by dietary allergies, parasites, gastrointestinal tract problems, amongst other causes.
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Can a cat’s diet affect her poop?
Feeding your cat inappropriate food or something that doesn’t agree with her digestive system can cause irritation, inflammation, and diarrhea. Always ensure your cat’s diet is balanced, nutritious, and appropriate for her species.
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Is blood in cat’s poop an emergency?
Yes. Blood in your cat’s poop is an emergency situation that needs a veterinary evaluation as fast as possible. Visiting a veterinarian early can prevent fatal complications.
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What can I do to prevent blood in my cat’s poop?
Provide a good quality diet, deworm regularly, ensure proper grooming, and give your cat plenty of fresh water to drink. Keep your cat’s environment clean and safe.
Conclusion
Blood in your cat’s poop may be a symptom of an underlying serious condition. If you observe blood in her poop, don’t hesitate to take her to the vet. Early detection and appropriate treatment may save your cat’s life.
References
- IAHPC (International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care). “Assessing Pain in Cats: An Online Pain Assessment Resource”. http://iaahpc.org/pain-management-resources-for-veterinary-professionals/assessing-pain-in-cats-online-resource/
- Catasaurus Rex. “Why is there blood in my cat’s poop? – Causes and solutions”. https://catasaurusrrex.com/why-is-there-blood-in-my-cat-poop-causes-and-solutions/
- PetMD. “Blood in the Stool in Cats”. https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_hematochezia