Discovering blood in your cat's vomit is understandably alarming. This symptom, known as haematemesis, warrants immediate attention as it can indicate anything from minor digestive irritation to serious underlying conditions. Whilst some causes are manageable with veterinary care, others require urgent intervention. Understanding what might be causing this distressing symptom will help you take appropriate action and provide your vet with valuable information during examination.
Common Causes of Blood in Cat Vomit
Blood in vomit typically originates from the mouth, throat, or stomach lining. The appearance and colour of the blood can offer clues about its source:
- Bright red blood: Usually indicates recent bleeding from the mouth or upper throat
- Dark red or "coffee ground" appearance: Suggests stomach bleeding that has been partially digested
Common causes include:
- Gastritis and ulcers: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often triggered by stress, NSAIDs, or certain medications
- Hairballs: When swallowed fur accumulates, it can irritate the stomach and cause bleeding
- Foreign objects: Ingested items like string, plastic, or small toys can lacerate the digestive tract
- Dental disease: Infected teeth and gums can lead to bleeding when swallowed
- Coagulopathy: Blood clotting disorders that prevent proper wound healing
- Severe vomiting: Repeated or forceful vomiting can rupture small blood vessels
- Poisoning: Toxins like rat poison can interfere with blood clotting
- Kidney disease: Can damage the stomach lining and cause bleeding
- Liver disease: May result in clotting problems and digestive bleeding
- Gastrointestinal tumours: Less common but possible in older cats
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
Contact your vet immediately if your cat:
- Vomits blood repeatedly or continuously
- Shows signs of shock (pale gums, weakness, rapid breathing)
- Vomits blood alongside diarrhoea or black, tarry stools
- Is lethargic or unresponsive
- Has ingested a known toxin
- Has not eaten for more than 12 hours alongside vomiting
Veterinary Diagnosis Process
Your vet will conduct a thorough examination, which typically includes:
- Detailed health history and recent medication review
- Physical examination of mouth, throat, and abdomen
- Blood tests to assess clotting ability and organ function
- Imaging studies (X-rays or ultrasound) to identify foreign objects or structural abnormalities
- Faecal examination to rule out parasites
Treatment Options
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. Your vet may recommend:
- Temporary dietary modifications (soft, bland foods)
- Anti-nausea medications
- Stomach protectants to reduce gastric acid
- Surgery for foreign body removal
- Blood transfusions in severe cases
- Antibiotics if infection is present
- Treatment for underlying conditions like kidney or liver disease
Home Care and Prevention
Whilst awaiting or following veterinary treatment:
- Offer small, frequent meals of bland food
- Ensure constant access to fresh water
- Monitor all subsequent vomit for blood presence
- Keep your cat calm and stress-free
- Remove potential hazards and choking risks
- Maintain regular dental check-ups
- Use regular parasite prevention as directed by your vet
Key Takeaways
Blood in your cat's vomit is never normal and always requires professional evaluation. Whilst some causes are straightforward to manage, others indicate serious health concerns. The colour and frequency of blood, alongside other symptoms, help your vet determine urgency. Don't delay—contact your veterinarian promptly to ensure your cat receives the appropriate care and relief from this distressing symptom.