Occult blood in a cat’s feces refers to the presence of small quantities of blood that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Detecting occult blood is crucial because even minor bleeding within the digestive tract can lead to significant blood loss if left untreated. Here are the potential dangers:
- Anemia: If occult blood goes unnoticed, it can result in anemia. Anemia occurs when there’s insufficient red blood cell production or excessive blood loss. Cats with anemia may exhibit weakness, lethargy, and pale gums.
- Underlying Conditions: Occult blood can arise from various sources, including severe dental disease, internal parasites, stomach or intestinal ulcers, bowel inflammation, tumors, or foreign bodies (like swallowed toys). Identifying the cause is essential for proper treatment.
- Systemic Impact: Anything affecting the digestive system can impact the entire body. Left untreated, occult blood may worsen the underlying condition, affecting overall health.
- Inconsistent Bleeding: Some causes of occult blood may lead to intermittent bleeding. Thus, you might notice blood in the cat’s stool on certain days but not others¹.
Remember, if you observe blood in your cat’s feces, consult a veterinarian promptly. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial for your cat’s well-being²³. 🐾
This is Ringbio’s kit for detecting fecal occult blood in cats, https://www.ringbio.com/products/pet/feline-fecal-occult-blood-rapid-test-kit
Source:
(1) Fecal Occult Blood | VCA Animal Hospitals. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/fecal-occult-blood.
(2) Why Is My Cat Pooping Blood? 9 Possible Causes | BetterVet. https://bettervet.com/resources/pet-symptoms/why-is-my-cat-pooping-blood.
(3) Blood in Cat Feces – Causes & Possible Diseases – AnimalWised. https://www.animalwised.com/blood-in-cat-feces-686.html.
(4) Blood in Cat Stool: 11 Common Causes | Great Pet Care. https://www.greatpetcare.com/cat-health/blood-in-cat-stool/.