BLOOD IN STOOL (HEMATOCHAZIA)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Bright red blood in stool usually comes from the lower GI tract — the colon, rectum, or anus. It may look alarming but often comes from colitis or irritation. Severe cases can indicate GI infection or bleeding disorders.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD CAUSES
• Stress colitis
• Sudden diet change
• Mild large-bowel inflammation
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Parasites
• Bacterial colitis
• Food intolerance
• Anal gland issues
• Polyps
• IBD
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Large amounts of blood
• Blood + vomiting
• Black/tarry stool (upper GI bleed)
• Bleeding disorders
RED FLAGS: WHEN THIS IS AN EMERGENCY
• Repeated blood in stool
• Blood + lethargy
• Blood + dehydration
• Blood + vomiting
• Pale gums
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Bland diet
• Probiotic
• Hydration support
• Stop new treats or foods
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Fecal exam
• Parasite testing
• Bloodwork
• Rectal exam
• Imaging if chronic
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Colitis
• Parasites
• Food intolerance
• IBD
• Infection
BREEDS OR AGES AT HIGHER RISK
• Young dogs (parasites)
• Boxers (colitis)
• Seniors (IBD, polyps)
WHEN YOU SHOULD SCHEDULE A VETERINARY VISIT
• Same day if blood is significant
• Within 24–48 hours if mild
EXPECTED RECOVERY TIME
• Mild colitis: 24–72 hours
• IBD: long-term management
HOW THIS SYMPTOM RELATES TO LONGEVITY
Chronic GI bleeding contributes to anemia and chronic inflammation — key longevity concerns.
WHEN TO CONSIDER A LONGEVITY CONSULT
• Recurrent blood in stool
• Chronic colitis
• Senior pets