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As a veterinarian, I see pets for many different symptoms that their owners are concerned about, but one of the most common is changes to their stool. A pet’s stool offers a lot of information about their overall health, therefore as owners, we should be regularly monitoring our pup’s eliminations for changes in color, consistency and frequency. Many pets just go out in the backyard to do their business unsupervised, and owners may not realize a change in stool until other symptoms develop or the pet has an accident indoors. Checking your pet’s stool regularly will allow you as an owner to catch potential issues and intervene sooner. One of the more concerning stool changes is the presence of blood which should prompt a veterinary visit in most cases.
Types of Bloody Stool in Dogs
Hematochezia
Hematochezia is classified as the presence of bright red blood in a dog’s stool. This indicates the source of bleeding to be the lower GI tract. Mucus may or may not be present.
Melena
Melena is classified as the presence of digested blood in a dog’s stool, typically appearing as a dark, tarry color. Melena can be a more subtle change to notice as it can be normal in consistency. This type of bloody stool is indicative of a bleed higher up in the digestive tract or sometimes even a bleed in the mouth or nose if the animal is swallowing the blood.
Causes of Blood in Dog Stool
There are many different potential causes for blood in a dog’s stool, including, but not limited to:
Dietary indiscretion: Dietary indiscretion is described as when a dog eats something other than food. Why do dogs eat poop, socks, or their toys? We may not know the answer, but when our dogs ingest non-food items, it can cause irritation of the GI tract lining or even an obstruction, leading to possible blood in stool.
Diet change or fatty table scraps: When a dog is offered a new food, sometimes the sudden change can lead to inflammation of the GI tract and therefore blood in the stool. When offered table scraps, especially those with higher fat content, the pancreas can become inflamed, sometimes causing blood in stool.
Parasites: Certain intestinal parasites, namely hookworms or coccidia often lead to small amounts of blood in the stool.
Blood clotting disorders: Blood in the stool can sometimes be a consequence of inadequate clotting ability. This can be caused by an underlying disorder such as rodenticide toxicity, liver disease or an immune-mediated attack on the platelets.
Stress: Just as us humans may get an upset stomach when we are nervous or stressed, the same goes for our pups. Whether it’s set off by owners being out of town or fireworks on Independence Day, dogs may develop a softer stool with or without blood when they are stressed.
Cancer: Cancer is never a fun topic. Unfortunately, a tumor within the esophagus, stomach or intestine can bleed and lead to a bloody stool.
Gastric ulcers: Gastric ulcers can be a side effect of certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories. If this is suspected, the inciting medication must be discontinued immediately, and your vet should be notified. Ulcers can also be caused by an infection with a bacteria called Helicobacter. This type of bleed will cause melena since the blood will travel all the way through the intestinal tract and be digested along the way.
Addison’s disease: Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder caused by the adrenal glands not producing cortisol adequately. This can cause intense lethargy and GI upset, including bloody stool.
Parvovirus: Most owners are familiar with parvo. If you have a young pup or unvaccinated dog who develops a bloody diarrhea and vomiting, get your pet to the vet ASAP. If managed quickly, pups have a good chance of survival, but if not caught in time, this virus can be fatal. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccine schedules to keep your pet protected from parvo.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): As the name indicates, IBD causes an intense inflammation of the intestine, often leading to blood in the stool. Management may just involve switching your pet to a hypoallergenic diet, but in some cases steroids may be necessary.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE): The exact cause of HGE has not been identified, but there are a few theories, including bacterial infection with Clostridium, dietary indiscretion, or pancreatitis. HGE can be scary for owners as pets will have a bowel movement that appears as bright red liquid blood. Pets with HGE require supportive care. Hospitalization with IV fluids is often warranted as these pups are at high risk of dehydration.
Bleeding higher up: This is an often-forgotten potential cause of bloody stool, but if your pet is experiencing a bleed from their nasal or oral cavity, this blood is often swallowed and therefore passes through the digestive tract and manifests as melena.
Symptoms and When to See a Vet
As pet owners, seeing any sort of blood on our pet or in their excretions is of extreme concern. A small speckle of blood one time may not require any intervention, but if blood is present in the stool in a considerable amount or happens more than once, you should get your pet into the vet for evaluation. Depending on the underlying cause, bloody stool may be accompanied by other concerning clinical signs, like vomiting, not eating or lethargy. If any combination of these symptoms persistent past 12-24 hours, it is essential to get in with your vet. Puppies are at a higher risk of becoming dehydrated quickly when they are vomiting or having diarrhea. More urgent signs that should prompt an immediate veterinary visit include pale gums, unresponsiveness, or large amount of blood in stool. It is our responsibility as pet owners to act quickly and get our pups the care they need.
Diagnosis of Issues Causing Blood in Dog Stool
Where to start with diagnostics often depends on what concurrent symptoms the pet is experiencing as well as if the bloody stool is characterized as hematochezia or melena. A physical exam is always performed first and foremost. A few diagnostics veterinarians may use to aid in making a diagnosis include:
Fecal sample evaluation: Worms may be visible in your pet’s stool sample, but more commonly, your veterinarian will evaluate a sample of your pet’s stool under the microscope to look for parasites or their eggs. Stool can also be PCR tested to look for the DNA of organisms, including bacteria and viruses that can be difficult to diagnose with microscopy alone.
X-rays or Ultrasound: The importance of imaging cannot be emphasized enough. Imaging can help veterinarians visualize the presence of tumors, ingested foreign material or an obstruction. Obstructions are life-threatening and require prompt surgical management. Ultrasound is used for more advanced evaluation of the GI tract. It allows vets to see the internal architecture of organs and is especially useful in making diagnoses of pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Bloodwork: Bloodwork is very important in pets experiencing blood in the stool to make sure the pet has adequate clotting factors and is not becoming anemic. General bloodwork often checks blood cell counts, including platelets, kidney and liver function, pancreatic enzymes, and electrolytes. Depending on preliminary results or physical exam findings, additional bloodwork may be necessary, such as specific testing to confirm pancreatitis or a cortisol test for Addison’s disease.
Treatment for Bloody Stool in Dogs
Treatment for bloody stool in dogs varies widely depending on the underlying cause. Some causes require targeted treatments, while general gastroenteritis or stress colitis involve more of a supportive care approach. Supportive care for a dog with bloody diarrhea may include antibiotics, probiotics and prebiotics, anti-diarrheal medications like Pro-pectalin, bland diets, anti-nausea medications for vomiting, and fluids for hydration. More targeted management may be necessary in some cases but is often still accompanied by supportive care. Certain dewormers will be needed in cases of intestinal parasites. Gastric ulcers require treatment with medications, like sucralfate, to heal the stomach lining. A hypoallergenic diet may be necessary long term in cases of IBD. If your pet has an intestinal blockage or tumor, surgery may be the treatment of choice.
Your veterinarian will make recommendations of the best management strategies based on your pet’s diagnosis. Following your veterinarian’s recommendations is essential to getting your pet feeling better. If you don’t understand something your vet says, be sure to let them know and ask questions so they can help you understand.
Pet Insurance for Blood in Your Dog's Poop
Discovering blood in your dog’s poop can be alarming and stressful. As a pet owner, you want to do everything possible to ensure your furry friend’s health and well-being. While regular monitoring of your dog’s stool is crucial for early detection of potential issues, unexpected veterinary expenses can add to the anxiety.
Health insurance for pets can provide a safety net during these challenging times. By covering a portion of veterinary bills, it allows you to focus on your dog’s recovery without the added financial burden. From diagnostic tests to treatments and medications, pet insurance can help offset the costs associated with addressing the underlying cause of blood in your dog’s poop.
Remember, early intervention is key to successful treatment. Don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog’s stool. With the right care and support, your furry companion can recover and return to their playful self.
Bloody Stool in Dogs
Pet parenthood is extremely rewarding, but it comes with the responsibility to promote and maintain our pet’s health and well-being. It is essential to monitor your pet’s bowel movements routinely to catch abnormalities that could indicate an underlying health problem. If your pet is experiencing bloody stool, vomiting, lethargy or inappetence, consult with your veterinarian on how to best proceed and get your pup feeling better as soon as possible. Some causes of blood in stool require more urgent management than others, so it is better to be safe than sorry and get your pet into the vet if you have any concerns.
Your dog's well-being is a top priority. By staying informed and acting swiftly, you're giving them the best chance at a speedy recovery. With your love, care, and the guidance of your veterinarian, you can navigate this challenge and ensure a bright future for your loyal companion.