Blood in Cat Stools: What It Means and What to Do

Finding blood in your cat’s stool can be alarming. As cat parents, we want to ensure our furry companions are healthy and comfortable, so noticing red or dark discoloration in the litter box naturally raises concern. While it can sometimes be caused by minor issues, blood in the stool can also signal more serious health problems that require prompt veterinary attention.

Key Takeaways

• Blood in cat stools can appear as bright red streaks/spots (lower digestive tract bleeding) or dark, tarry stools (upper digestive tract bleeding).
  
• Causes range from dietary changes, constipation, parasites, and stress to more serious conditions like IBD, ulcers, or cancer.
  
• See a vet promptly if blood is persistent, stools are black/tarry, or if your cat also shows diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, pain, or weight loss.
  
• Vets may perform stool tests, bloodwork, imaging, or diet trials to identify the cause.
  
• At home, monitor litter box habits, provide hydration, maintain a stable diet, and reduce stress with a consistent routine. Check out our guide on how to keep a cat happy. Try Boxie Glo Natural Attractions cat litter to attract your cat to the litter box and build a healthy litter box routine.

What Does Blood in Cat Stools Look Like?

Blood in cat stools generally appears in two forms:

• Bright red streaks or spots (hematochezia)

This typically indicates bleeding in the lower digestive tract, such as the colon or rectum.

• Dark, tarry stools (melena)

This suggests bleeding higher up in the gastrointestinal tract, where the blood has been digested, causing the stool to appear black and sticky.

Both should be taken seriously.

Common Causes

Several conditions can lead to blood in your cat’s stools, including:

• Dietary changes or food intolerance 

Sudden changes in diet or sensitivity to ingredients can upset digestion.

• Constipation or straining 

Hard stools may cause small tears around the anus.

• Parasites 

Intestinal worms or protozoa can cause irritation and bleeding.

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Chronic inflammation of the intestines may lead to bloody stools.

• Infections 

Bacterial or viral infections affecting the digestive system.

• Stress 

Changes in environment or routine can trigger digestive upset in some cats. The litter box can be a safe space for cats, helping them feel secure and reducing stress. A consistent routine supports both their well-being and a healthier environment.

• More serious issues 

Such as polyps, ulcers, or even cancer in older cats.

When to Call the Vet

While a single small streak of blood might not always be an emergency, you should contact your veterinarian if:

• Blood in the stool is persistent or recurring.
  
  

• Your cat also has diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
  
  

• Stools appear black and tarry.
  
  

• Your cat seems lethargic, in pain, or is losing weight.
  
  

• There is a sudden, large amount of blood.
  
  

Prompt evaluation ensures that any underlying condition is identified and treated early.

What to Expect at the Vet

Your veterinarian may recommend:

• A physical exam and stool sample testing for parasites or infections.
  
  

• Bloodwork to check overall health.
  
  

• Imaging (like X-rays or ultrasound) to assess internal organs.
  
  

• Dietary adjustments or prescription food for sensitive stomachs.
  
  

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, but may include deworming medication, antibiotics, probiotics, dietary changes, or more specialized therapies if chronic disease is diagnosed.

How to Help at Home

• Monitor the litter box daily for changes in stool color, consistency, or frequency. Using a high quality cat litter can help reduce your cats stress.
  
  

• Keep your cat hydrated, as dehydration can worsen digestive issues.
  
  

• Maintain a stable diet, introducing any new foods gradually.
  
  

• Reduce stress by keeping routines consistent and providing a calm environment.

FAQ

Is it always serious if I see blood in my cat’s stool?

Not always. A single small streak may result from straining or constipation. However, any recurring, large, or dark/tarry blood should be checked by a veterinarian.

What’s the difference between bright red blood and dark, tarry stools?

• Bright red blood usually points to bleeding in the lower digestive tract (colon or rectum).
  
  

• Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, where blood has been digested.
  
  

Can stress cause blood in my cat’s stool?

Yes. Stress can upset digestion in some cats, leading to inflammation and bloody stools. Keeping routines consistent and ensuring the litter box feels safe can help reduce stress.

What will the vet do to find the cause?

A vet may examine your cat, run stool and blood tests, or use imaging (X-ray/ultrasound). Based on findings, they may suggest medication, diet changes, or further treatment.

Can I manage this at home without seeing a vet?

Minor cases linked to constipation or diet changes may improve with hydration, a stable diet, and stress reduction. But persistent or severe bleeding always requires veterinary care.

How can I prevent blood in my cat’s stool?

• Feed a consistent, high-quality diet and introduce new foods gradually.
  
  

• Ensure your cat stays hydrated.
  
  

• Keep up with parasite prevention.
  
  

• Provide a low-stress environment and maintain a steady litter box routine.