Seeing your dog throw up blood — also known as hematemesis — is alarming, and it’s a symptom that needs immediate attention. It’s a sign that something isn’t right, even if your dog seems to be acting normally otherwise.
Because hematemesis is a symptom and not a diagnosis, there could be any number of underlying causes. That’s why it’s so important to consult with your vet.
We’ll walk you through some of the potential reasons why your dog is throwing up blood, when to seek emergency care, how your vet will diagnose the problem, possible treatments, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again.
What can cause a dog to vomit blood?
There are many reasons why your dog might be throwing up blood. Here are some of the most common causes:
Gastrointestinal issues
Irritation and ulcers in the GI tract are fairly common, and they can be triggered by medications, stress, or an underlying disease. Another possibility is hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, or HGE, a severe inflammatory condition that can cause bloody vomit and diarrhea.
Ingestion of foreign objects or toxins
If your dog has swallowed a bone or a toy, it could damage the digestive tract and cause bleeding. Rat poison and certain plants are toxic and can also lead to hematemesis.
Other medical conditions
Bacterial or parasitic infections can irritate the lining of your dog’s stomach. Clotting disorders, kidney disease, pancreatitis, Addison’s disease, and cancer are other underlying causes of vomiting blood.
Recognizing the Signs and Severity of Hematemesis
If your dog throws up blood, it’s important to take note of what it looks like. This can provide important clues for your veterinarian.
Appearance of the vomit
The color and texture of the blood can offer clues about the source and severity of the bleeding.
- Color: Bright red blood indicates that the bleeding is fresh, while dark blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds suggests the blood has been digested.
- Texture: Blood may appear as a liquid, in clots, or as small specks within the vomit.
Differentiating vomiting from coughing up blood
It’s also important to differentiate between vomiting blood and coughing up blood. Vomiting typically involves abdominal contractions, while coughing up blood often involves extending the neck.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If your dog is vomiting large amounts of blood, vomiting frequently, or showing signs of weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, or abdominal pain, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Diagnostic procedures your veterinarian may perform
If your dog is throwing up blood, your vet will want to find out what’s causing it. Here are some of the diagnostic tests they may perform:
Initial examination and history
The vet will start with a physical exam and ask you questions about your dog’s history. This will include questions about what your dog eats, any medications they’re taking, and whether they could have gotten into any poisons or toxins.
Common diagnostic tests
- Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel can help identify underlying health issues or clotting disorders.
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound can help detect foreign objects, tumors, or other abnormalities.
- Endoscopy: A procedure where a camera is inserted into the digestive tract to visualize the lining and take biopsies.
- Fecal examination: To check for parasites.
Treatment Options for Dogs Vomiting Blood
If your dog is throwing up blood, your veterinarian will likely recommend a two-pronged approach: supportive care to help your dog feel better right away, and treatment to address the root cause of the vomiting.
Supportive Care
- IV fluids and electrolytes. These can help combat dehydration and any electrolyte imbalances.
- Anti-nausea medication. This will help control the vomiting.
Addressing the Underlying Cause
Depending on what’s causing your dog to vomit blood, your vet may recommend:
- Medications. Acid reducers, antibiotics, or other medications may be prescribed.
- Surgery. This may be needed to remove something your dog swallowed or to remove tumors.
- Blood transfusions. These are typically used in cases of severe blood loss.
- Dietary management. Your vet may suggest a bland diet to soothe your dog’s digestive system.
How to prevent your dog from throwing up blood
While you can’t guarantee that your dog will never vomit blood, you can take steps to minimize the risk. Consider:
- Dietary vigilance: Keep bones, sharp objects, and toxic substances out of your dog’s reach.
- Parasite prevention: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on their parasite prevention medications.
- Medication management: Never give your dog human medications without talking to your veterinarian first.
- Regular checkups: Routine veterinary visits can help catch underlying health problems early.
In Summary
If your dog is throwing up blood, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Vomiting blood is a serious symptom that needs prompt attention.
When you bring your dog to the vet, carefully describe all of your dog’s symptoms. The more information you can give your vet, the easier it will be to diagnose and treat your pet.