Rectal Bleeding
From LoveToKnow Cats
Visitors ask questions about cats bleeding from the rectum.
Cat Bleeding from Rectum
Hello,
My cat that we have had since 2001 had blood coming out of his butt. We are worried and unsure of what this could be. Please answer us as soon as possible.
~~Michelle
Expert Reply
Hi Michelle,
I can understand your concern. You don't mention how profusely your cat was bleeding. Is it minor or a lot of blood? One incident with only a small amount could be from something as simple as straining when going to the bathroom. However, a significant amount of blood can show a problem. It could be any number of things from an anal sac infection (treated with antibiotics usually) to something more serious. My best advice is to take the cat to the vet as soon as possible. Try to collect a fecal sample to take as well, even if you have to take it prior to the actual appointment. The vet can test for worms or other problems from this sample.
Most issues can be easily treated with medication, but it is best not to delay in taking the cat to the vet. Let us know how he is doing.
~~Lori
Cat Bleeding from Rectum
I have a cat that is around six years old. He was given to us by a couple who kept him in the house all day and night. He came to us very fat and overweight. Now, he lives on our five acres and goes in and out all the time. He has done great, but he has lost quite a bit of weight and now has started to bleed from his rectum when he goes number two. He seems fine, but I am worried. What should I do? I was thinking his weight loss was from being more active, but maybe he is sick. Please help!
~~Kristie
Expert Reply
Hi Kristie,
The bleeding could be caused by any number of problems, from rectal polyps to an anal sac infection to something he ate during his wanderings. Does he seem to be eating, drinking and using the litter normally other than the blood in his stool? It is likely that his weight loss is from being more active and outdoors, so I wouldn't worry too much as long as he is eating normally. However, I do think you should take him to the vet and get an analysis of the bleeding. Be sure to mention the weight loss combined with the change in environment and the cat being more active. The vet may want to do a digital exam of the rectum which will let him know if there are any polyps or tumors.
If the vet does not find any problems and the problem does not worsen, you may want to just keep an eye on him. If the problem continues to worsen, you may want to try a specialist who will use an endoscope for a more thorough exam. Good luck. He sounds like a great cat.
~~Lori.
Comments
Hi Carol,
It does sound like the cat is in distress and needs to be seen by a vet. This could be something as minor as an anal sac infection, which can be easily treated. However, the cat really needs to be seen by a veterinarian to discover the root cause of the problems.
I do understand the concerns over costs. We just had to take an elderly cat to the emergency vet. $219 later and our cat passed on anyway. However, please tell your friend that most vets will work out a payment plan to help with costs such as these, particularly in an emergency situation.
It may turn out that the vet says there isn't much that can be done. Or it may be something treatable.
-- Contributed by: LoriSoardmy friends cat has bleeding from rectam is vomiting, loss of wieght and is panting. The bleeding, vomiting, and panting has all started this morning. And she has no money for a vet. I am in vegas she is in buffalo. I am trying to find something that may give some answers. The cat is 10 years old always indoors. She said the bleeding in when the cat poops and ther is an order of blood coming from the cat? Should she have her put down?
-- Contributed by: Carol G.Hi Nikki,
There are a number of things that might cause this. I don't think it is likely worms, however. First of all, if the blood is a bright red, then the blood is not traveling as far. If it is darker (almost brownish), then the problem may be further up in his intestines.
Your cat could have anything from minor straining to go to the bathroom to needing his anal sac expelled to something more serious.
My advice would be to watch him closely for now. If you notice any of the following symptoms, go ahead and taking him to the vet:
- Lethargy
- Pain when using litter box
- Lack of hunger or thirst or increased of either
- Dragging his rear end across the floor
- Yowling loudly
- Refusing to use litter box
It may just be that he has strained himself and this will clear up on its own. However, if he still has blood in a week or two, I would phone the vet and see if you can work out a payment plan to have him treated.
-- Contributed by: LoriSoardThis page has been accessed 2,054 times. This page was last modified 01:22, 19 August 2008.
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