Dear VetBabble: What Causes Blood in My Dog’s Stool Without Diarrhea?
I have noticed a bit of blood in my dog’s normal stools since yesterday (no diarrhoea). He is drinking, eating, and acting normally. What could this be? Thank you.
Understanding the Causes of Blood in Dog Stools
Hi, thank you for reaching out to VetBabble! We understand how concerning it can be to find blood in your dog’s stool. Even though your dog is not experiencing diarrhea, the appearance of blood in your dog’s stool signifies that there is inflammation in the colon. There are a few possible causes that you should be aware of, which we will explore further.
Possible Causes for Blood in Stool
There are several potential reasons why your dog’s stool may contain blood. Some of the main causes include:
- Intestinal parasites
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Consumption of something unsuitable outdoors
- Food allergy or intolerance
- Reaction to a new food, treat, or human food
Blood in the stool is typically observed after diarrhea begins, but in some cases, it can present itself in normal stools as well. To get a better understanding of why your dog might have diarrhea, you may want to read our article “Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?“
Supporting Your Dog’s Recovery
To help your dog recover, you can begin by starting a bland diet for a few days. Boil some chicken or hamburger and mix it with rice, feeding your dog 1 cup per 20 lbs per day until their stools return to normal. In addition, you can start your dog on a probiotic like Purina Fortiflora to help support their digestive system.
Keep an eye on your dog’s stool and overall well-being. If the issue persists or worsens, you should consult your veterinarian for advice. It’s important to know when to be concerned about your dog’s diarrhea, which you can learn more about in our article “Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry“. Your veterinarian may want to perform tests or recommend treatment based on the underlying cause of the blood in your dog’s stool.
Lastly, ensure that your dog’s environment is free of anything that may be causing the issue. Remove any access to cat feces or other inappropriate items they might consume, which can lead to issues like diarrhea and blood in the stool. To learn more about the reasons behind this behavior, read our article “Why Does My Dog Eat Cat Poo?“
Your dog’s bowel habits are an important indicator of their overall health, so it’s crucial to keep track of any changes. Familiarize yourself with the normal frequency of your dog’s bowel movements by reading our article “How Often Should My Dog Poop?“.
We wish you and your dog the best as you navigate this issue. Remember to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health or well-being.
