Melena (Blood in Stool) in Cats

Melena (Blood in Stool) in Cats

By: Dr. Bari Spielman

Section: Overview

Diagnosis

A thorough history and physical examination are often helpful in determining if melena is present and in suggesting an underlying cause. To determine the exact cause, additional tests are usually necessary and include the following:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Biochemical profile
  • Urinalysis
  • Fecal examination
  • Abdominal and chest radiographs (X-rays)
  • Serology for certain infectious diseases
  • Coagulation profile
  • Abdominal ultrasonography
  • Upper gastrointestinal barium series
  • Endoscopy

    Treatment

    There are several things your veterinarian might prescribe to treat your pet symptomatically while results of diagnostic tests are pending:

  • Individuals with melena may be treated as outpatients if there are minimal systemic signs, especially if there is a known cause that can be removed immediately.


  • Dietary recommendations vary depending on the cause; however, a bland diet that is easy to digest may be recommended.

  • Avoid all gastrointestinal irritants like corticosteroids and aspirin drugs.

  • Drugs that block the production of stomach acid and coat the stomach may be recommended.

  • In severe cases, hospitalization is warranted for intravenous fluid therapy, blood transfusions, and supportive care.

    Home Care

    Administer any prescribed medications and follow all dietary recommendations as directed by your veterinarian. Observe your pet's general activity and appetite, and watch closely for the recurrence of melena, and/or presence of blood in any vomitus. Additionally, report any other signs to your veterinarian.

    •  
    Printable Version
     
    Have a Pet Question?
    Review the Most Frequent Questions
    Answered by Dr. Jon and His Staff of Veterinarians
    Ask Dr. Jon
    Dr. Jon's Newsletter
    Yes! Send Me the Latest Health Information, Pet Tips, Pet Stories and more...
     
     

    Related Articles

    • 1 Hematochezia (Blood in Stool) in Cats

      Hematochezia is the presence of bright red blood in the feces. Bright red blood is different that black tarry feces, which is usually associated with digested blood. Anytime blood is noticed in the feces,...

      Read MoreRead More
    Related Articles
    • 1Hematochezia (Blood in Stool) in Cats

      Hematochezia is the presence of bright red blood in the feces. Bright red blood is different that black tarry feces, which is usually associated with digested blood. Anytime blood is noticed in the feces,...

      Read MoreRead More
     

    Over 10,000 Veterinarian Approved Articles

    Dogs & Puppies
    Cats
    Related Articles
    • 1Hematochezia (Blood in Stool) in Cats

      Hematochezia is the presence of bright red blood in the feces. Bright red blood is different that black tarry feces, which is usually associated with digested blood. Anytime blood is noticed in the feces,...

      Read MoreRead More