Seeing blood in your dog’s vomit or stool is alarming, and it’s a symptom that definitely requires your attention. It could signal anything from a minor irritation to a serious health problem.
This article covers the possible causes of blood in your dog’s vomit and poop, what to look out for, and when it’s time to see a vet. It’s important to pay close attention to any other symptoms your dog might be showing, like lethargy, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior. These details can help your vet diagnose the problem quickly.
Decoding the appearance: What does blood in dog vomit and stool look like?
The color and consistency of the blood in your dog’s vomit and stool can help you and your vet figure out where the bleeding is occurring.
Blood in vomit (hematemesis)
If the blood is a fresh, bright red, that usually suggests there’s bleeding in your dog’s esophagus or stomach. If it looks like coffee grounds, that means the blood has been digested, indicating that the bleeding is happening further up in the digestive tract.
Blood in stool
If you see bright red blood in your dog’s stool (hematochezia), it usually means there’s bleeding in the lower digestive tract, like the colon or rectum. Stool that’s dark and tarry (melena) suggests the blood has been digested, and that the bleeding is higher up in the digestive tract. This warrants an immediate call to your vet.
Note the consistency and amount of blood you see so you can give your vet as much information as possible.
Possible reasons for blood in dog vomit and stool: A comprehensive overview
If you see blood in your dog’s vomit or stool, it’s important to seek veterinary care, as the underlying reasons can be serious. Here are some potential causes:
Dietary indiscretions and foreign objects
- Eating toxins, like rat poison, can cause internal bleeding.
- Non-food items like toys or bones can irritate or damage the digestive tract.
Infections and parasites
- Viral infections, such as parvovirus, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and bloody diarrhea.
- Parasitic infestations, like hookworms or whipworms, can irritate the intestinal lining and lead to blood in the stool.
Inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause chronic inflammation and bleeding in the digestive tract.
- Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, can result in bloody diarrhea.
Organ dysfunction and systemic diseases
- Kidney or liver disease can disrupt blood clotting and lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Addison’s disease can cause a variety of symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood.
Other potential causes
- Ulcers in the stomach or intestines can bleed.
- Pancreatitis can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Intestinal blockages can cause vomiting and bloody stool due to inflammation and pressure.
- Anal gland problems can cause blood in the stool, particularly if the glands are infected or abscessed.
- Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous, can cause bleeding in the digestive tract.
Haemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) / Acute Haemorrhagic Diarrhoea Syndrome (AHDS)
Another possible cause of blood in your dog’s vomit and stool is haemorrhagic gastroenteritis, also known as acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome. Let’s take a closer look at this condition.
What is HGE/AHDS?
HGE is a specific illness that causes sudden vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
Key characteristics and symptoms
With HGE, the diarrhea is often described as “strawberry jam-like” because it’s loaded with blood. Vomiting is another common symptom, and it often starts before the bloody diarrhea does. All that vomiting and diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration, which is a serious problem. You’ll probably also notice that your dog seems tired and isn’t interested in eating.
Diagnosis and treatment
To diagnose HGE, vets often rely on blood tests, especially something called packed cell volume (PCV). A PCV above 57% is a key sign of HGE and indicates dehydration. (Normal PCV is between 37% and 55%.) If your dog is diagnosed with HGE, the vet will likely start aggressive IV fluid therapy to combat dehydration and support blood pressure.
Potential triggers
Bacterial toxins, such as those made by Clostridium perfringens, may play a role in HGE. Stress might also be a contributing factor.
What to Expect at the Vet
If you see blood in your dog’s vomit or stool, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Your vet will likely perform these tests:
- A physical exam and review of your dog’s history
- Blood tests to check organ function, blood cell counts, and electrolytes
- Fecal tests to look for parasites
- X-rays or ultrasounds to see the digestive tract
- An endoscopy or colonoscopy to look closely at the lining of the digestive tract and take small tissue samples
Treatment depends on the cause of the bleeding. Your vet may prescribe medicine, IV fluids, or special food. In some cases, the dog may need surgery.
In Summary
If you see blood in your dog’s vomit or stool, it’s a sign that your pet needs to see a veterinarian right away.
The sooner your dog gets a diagnosis and treatment, the better the chance of a good outcome.
By paying close attention to your dog and acting quickly, you can help make sure your canine companion gets the best care possible.