Occult blood (hidden blood) in a cat’s stool is a finding, not a diagnosis. It indicates there may be bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract, but additional tests are usually needed to determine the cause. Possible causes include parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, foreign bodies, polyps, tumors, food intolerance, and clotting disorders.
A veterinarian may recommend some of the following tests:
- Fecal examination
- Checks for intestinal parasites, worm eggs, and certain infections.
- Often one of the first tests performed.
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Evaluates for anemia from blood loss and signs of inflammation or infection.
- Helps assess how significant the bleeding may be.
- Blood chemistry profile
- Assesses liver, kidney, and other organ function.
- May help identify underlying diseases that contribute to gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Urinalysis
- Frequently performed alongside blood tests to evaluate overall health.
- Coagulation testing
- If a bleeding disorder is suspected, clotting tests may be needed.
- Disorders affecting blood clotting can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Abdominal imaging
- Ultrasound and/or X-rays can help detect masses, foreign bodies, intestinal thickening, ulcers, or other abnormalities.
- Endoscopy and biopsy
- If inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, or cancer are suspected, a veterinarian may recommend endoscopy with tissue samples for diagnosis.
- Additional specialized tests
- Depending on the cat’s age, symptoms, and exam findings, tests for infectious diseases or gastrointestinal disorders may be recommended.
The urgency depends on the cat’s overall condition. If your cat has occult blood plus symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, lethargy, pale gums, or anemia, veterinary evaluation is especially important.
Check here, https://www.ringbio.com/products/pet/canine-fecal-occult-blood-rapid-test-kit