Hematemesis, or the act of vomiting blood, is a relatively common ailment affecting dogs, cats and other pets of all breeds and ages. Some causes of hematemesis in pets are potentially life-threatening, while others don’t pose quite so much danger, though it’s an event that should never be ignored.
“If your pet vomits blood, I recommend monitoring his vitals and getting him in as soon as possible for an exam, particularly if there’s abnormalities in pulse, behavior, temperature or gum color,” explained Dr. Michael Levine, DVM.
What Causes a Pet to Vomit Blood?
There are a handful of conditions and problems that can trigger hematemesis.
In many cases, the color and quantity of blood can suggest a possible cause for the presence of blood in the vomit, so owners should note the amount of blood and whether the blood is bright red or dark maroon/brown in color, similar in appearance to coffee grounds.
The following is a list of the most common causes for the presence of blood in a cat or dog’s vomit:
- Stomach Ulcers
- Esophageal Ulcers
- Ulcers in the Duodenum (the upper portion of the small intestine)
- Bleeding Due to an Obstruction in the Digestive System
- Medications (which can upset the stomach and trigger bleeding)
- Chronic Gastritis
- Tumors in the Digestive System
- Blood Clotting Disorders
- Ingesting Foreign Bodies
- Poisoning
Owners of a pet who is vomiting blood should also check the mouth and throat, as the mouth is a common source of the bleeding due to periodontal disease, chipped teeth, and lacerations to the gums, the inside of the cheeks and tongue. Furthermore, when the animal swallows blood that’s originated in the mouth, it’s not uncommon for stomach upset and vomiting to result.
“You should also check the back portion of the mouth and throat for any obvious obstructions. I’ve seen many dogs who have ended up with objects lodged at the back of their mouths,” Dr. Levine added.
Common Symptoms Associated With Hematemesis
There are many symptoms that are often seen in conjunction with hematemesis, or blood in the vomit. Those symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Refusal to Eat and Drink
- Diarrhea
- Blood in the Feces
- Abdominal Pain
- Weakness and Lethargy
- Panting and Salivation
- Pale Gums
- Firm Abdomen
- Seizure
- Loss of Consciousness
Diagnosing and Treating Hematemesis
The diagnosis and treatment process for a pet who is vomiting blood can vary from case to case.
“I always begin with a basic exam. From there, we’ll run blood work to get an idea of blood count, clotting abilities and the functionality of the various organ systems,” explained Dr. Levine, who added, “Depending on the results of the exam, we may perform x-rays, a sonogram (ultrasound), radiographs (x-rays), often with contrast, and endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine.”
The treatment varies from providing supportive care while the body heals to emergency surgery, as would be required in the case of an obstruction.
Medications such as certain anti-inflammatory medications can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, therefore discontinuation of the medication is often required to allow for proper healing.
Related Reading:
* Treating a Pet's Vomiting at Home
