What causes rectal bleeding in dogs?
Quick Answer
According to the Fairmount Animal Hospital, rectal bleeding in dogs can be the result of any number of diseases or disorders of the colon, rectum or gastrointestinal tract, including anorectal disease, rectal prolapse, intestinal parasites or colonic ulcers. The color and consistency of the blood helps to pinpoint the problem.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
According to Fairmount Animal Hospital, anorectal diseases can result in rectal bleeding and other symptoms, such as frequent defecation and mucus or blood in the feces. In the case of anorectal disease or problems with the lower gastrointestinal tract, which includes the colon and rectum, the blood is unclotted and bright red. Bleeding as a result of problems in the upper gastrointestinal tract produces blood that is dark and thick. Rectal polyps, rectal prolapse, cancer and colonic ulcers and inflammation are also problems in the lower gastrointestinal tract that result in rectal bleeding.
According to Pet Health & Care, rectal bleeding occurs most commonly due to inflammation. Inflammation in both the colon and the rectum results in diarrhea and constipation. Upon noticing rectal bleeding in dogs, pet owners need to take the animal to the vet immediately, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as bleeding from other parts of the body and listlessness.
Learn more about DogsRelated Questions
-
Q:
Are Tums harmful to dogs?
A: Antacids, such as Tums, can be given to dogs to treat symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux and ulcers, and are not generally harmful if given occasionally. L... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do dogs bite their own tails?
A: According to WebMD, compulsive tail biting in dogs can occur for a variety of reasons, including allergies, anxiety, dry skin, epileptic seizures, injury a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do dogs shake their heads?
A: Healthy dogs shake their heads during routine hygiene practices, such as shaking off water, parasites and debris. Dogs also shake their heads in response t... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do dogs chew on their tails?
A: Various reasons, such as hormonal imbalance, pesky parasites, skin problems and hormonal imbalance cause dogs to chew their tails. Calm and trained dogs wh... Full Answer >Filed Under:
