The sight of your beloved cat vomiting is concerning enough, but the moment you see blood, it triggers a whole new level of panic. This isn’t a “wait-and-see” situation—a cat vomiting blood, a condition known medically as hematemesis, is a potentially life-threatening emergency that demands immediate action.
This comprehensive, vet-reviewed guide is designed to be your rock in this scary moment. We’ll help you understand exactly why a cat vomiting blood is so critical, reveal the 7 most common causes, and give you the exact step-by-step instructions you need to follow right now to give your feline friend the best chance at survival.
Is Your Cat Vomiting Blood? Key Signs to Identify
First, it’s crucial to confirm what you’re seeing. Sometimes, what appears to be a cat vomiting blood might be something else, like coughed-up blood from the lungs or a nosebleed. Here’s how to tell the difference:
Vomiting Blood (Hematemesis): This comes from the stomach or upper intestines. You’ll see your cat heaving with abdominal contractions. The blood may appear as:
- Fresh, Bright Red Streaks: Indicates active bleeding in the esophagus or stomach.
- Dark Brown, Coffee-Ground Texture: This is digested blood, meaning the bleeding has been happening for a little while in the stomach.
Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis): This comes from the respiratory tract. Your cat will typically crouch low with their neck extended and make hacking sounds. The blood is often frothy and mixed with mucus or air bubbles.
If you confirm your cat is vomiting blood, the following steps are non-negotiable.
The 7 Most Common Causes of a Cat Vomiting Blood
Understanding the potential causes can help you provide better information to your vet. The reasons behind a cat vomiting blood range from poisoning to chronic disease.
- Poison Ingestion: The most urgent cause. Rodenticides (rat poison) are common culprits, as they prevent blood from clotting, leading to internal bleeding.
- Foreign Bodies or Trauma: Sharp objects like bones, toys, or string can tear the delicate lining of the stomach or intestines, causing a cat to vomit blood.
- Stomach or Intestinal Ulcers: These painful sores can be caused by certain medications (like NSAIDs), severe stress, or underlying diseases.
- Severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or Cancer: Chronic inflammation or tumors in the gastrointestinal tract can erode tissue and lead to bleeding.
- Side Effects of Medications: Some drugs, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, can irritate the stomach lining and cause ulcers.
- Underlying Organ Failure: Advanced kidney or liver disease can cause bleeding disorders or ulcers, resulting in a cat vomiting blood.
- Infections or Blood Clotting Disorders: Severe bacterial infections or inherited conditions that prevent proper blood clotting can manifest as hematemesis.
Emergency Action Plan: What to Do RIGHT NOW
Time is critical. If you see your cat vomiting blood, follow these four steps immediately:
STEP 1: Secure Your Cat & The Sample.
Keep your cat calm and confined to a safe, quiet space, like a carrier or small room. If you can do so safely, collect a sample of the vomit in a plastic bag or take a clear photo. This can be incredibly valuable for your veterinarian.
STEP 2: Call an Emergency Vet IMMEDIATELY.
Do not wait to see if it happens again. Call your regular vet or, if it’s after hours, an emergency animal hospital. State clearly: “My cat is vomiting blood.” They will give you instructions and prepare for your arrival.
STEP 3: Locate Your Nearest 24/7 Clinic.
If your vet is closed, search for “[Your City] emergency vet” or use a pet hospital locator online right now. Knowing the fastest route can save precious minutes.
STEP 4: Do Not Give Food, Water, or Any Medication.
Withholding food and water prevents further irritation to the stomach. Never give any human medication or “home remedies” to a cat vomiting blood, as this can make the situation much worse.
What to Expect at the Vet: The Diagnostic Process
When you arrive at the clinic, the veterinary team will act quickly. Be prepared for a process that may include:
- Physical Exam: Checking gum color (pale gums indicate anemia), feeling the abdomen, and assessing vital signs.
- Blood Work & Urinalysis: To check for anemia, infection, organ function, and blood clotting ability.
- Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays or an ultrasound to look for foreign objects, tumors, or other abnormalities in the abdomen.
Diagnosing the root cause of a cat vomiting blood can involve several tests. Your vet will discuss a treatment plan and the associated costs with you transparently.
Treatment and Prognosis for a Cat Vomiting Blood
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause diagnosed by your vet. Common treatments may include:
- Supportive Care: IV fluids to treat shock and prevent dehydration.
- Blood Transfusion: If your cat has lost a significant amount of blood.
- Medications: Gastro-protectants to coat the stomach, anti-nausea drugs, or antibiotics.
- Surgery: To remove a foreign object or a tumor.
The prognosis for a cat vomiting blood varies widely. It heavily depends on the root cause and, most importantly, how quickly treatment was initiated. The faster you act, the better your cat’s chances are.
FAQs About Cat Vomiting Blood
My cat vomited a tiny speck of blood but is acting normal. Should I worry?
Yes. Any instance of a cat vomiting blood is a red flag. It could be the very beginning of a serious condition like poisoning. Contact your vet immediately; do not wait for it to happen again.
What’s the difference between a cat vomiting blood and a cat pooping blood?
Vomiting blood (hematemesis) points to issues in the upper GI tract (stomach, esophagus). Blood in stool points to the lower GI tract (intestines, colon). Both are serious and require a vet’s diagnosis.
Can I treat my cat vomiting blood at home?
No. This is a veterinary emergency. There are no safe or effective home remedies for a cat vomiting blood. Attempting to treat it at home could be fatal.
How much does it cost to treat a cat vomiting blood?
Costs vary dramatically based on the cause, ranging from $500 for simpler cases to $5,000+ for those requiring surgery or intensive care. Emergency care, diagnostics, and hospitalization all contribute to the cost. This situation highlights the value of pet insurance.
8. Conclusion: Your Quick Action Saves Lives
The sight of your cat vomiting blood is one of the most frightening experiences a pet owner can face. In this moment, fear is natural, but action is essential. Your response is everything. Your immediate action—calling your vet and going to the clinic without delay—is the single most important factor in your cat’s survival. Don’t second-guess, don’t wait. Trust your instincts and get your cat the emergency care they need.
Sources:
- VCA Animal Hospitals. “Vomiting of Blood in Cats.”
- Cornell Feline Health Center. “Feline Emergency Guide.”
- Merck Veterinary Manual. “Gastrointestinal Emergencies.”
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
