What Causes Rectal Bleeding in Cats?

If you notice rectal bleeding in your cat, it is important to distinguish if the bleeding derives directly from the rectal area or if it is incorporated within the stools. Because rectal bleeding in cats can have various causes ranging from minor to more serious, it is always recommended to promptly consult with a veterinarian.

Injuries

A good place to start is to look for signs of injuries near the rectal area, including the anal sacs. Signs of injuries should be obvious with the presence of blood, swelling and pain.

Rectal Polyps

While these polyps are not visible externally, blood will be visible after the cat has a bowel movement. Because polyps are highly vascularized, they tend to bleed easily and profusely.

Rat Poison

Rat poison is meant to cause rodents to bleed to death, so if a cat ingests rat poison or a rat killed by rat poison, it may develop unexplained bleeding episodes. Such bleeding may derive from the nose, mouth, ears, rectum and even under the skin, forming purples blotches or pinpoint bleeding known as "petechiae."

Blood Clotting Disorders

Cats may be affected by blood clotting disorders that may cause spontaneous bleeding. In such instance, cats will bleed spontaneously or sometimes with a minimum amount of trauma.

Cancer

In some rare instances, rectal bleeding can be due to cancer. For this reason, it is best to always have a vet investigate any unexplained bleeding from the rectum.

Blood in the Stools

The presence of blood in the stools (or urine) often is confused with rectal bleeding. Bloody stools are often due to the presence of parasites or protozoans, stress, dietary changes, food allergies and dietary intolerances, whereas blood in the urine may be attributed to urinary tract infections, bladder stones and serious urinary blockages.

References

• "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook"; Delbert G. Carlson and James M. Giffin; 1995