My Dog Having Blood in the Feces or Orange Feces?

 

Why Is My Dog Having Blood in the Feces or Orange Feces?

As a responsible pet owner, noticing blood in your dog’s stool or an unusual orange-colored feces can be alarming. While some causes are minor, others may indicate a serious health issue requiring immediate veterinary attention. In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes, symptoms, and when to seek veterinary care for bloody or orange stools in dogs.

What Does Blood in Dog Feces Mean?

Blood in a dog’s stool is classified into two types:

1. Hematochezia (Bright Red Blood in Stool) – This indicates bleeding in the lower digestive tract, including the colon or rectum.
2. Melena (Dark, Tarry Stool) – This is a sign of bleeding in the upper digestive system, such as the stomach or small intestine.

Common Causes of Blood in Dog Stool

• Parasitic Infections – Hookworms, whipworms, and other intestinal parasites can cause irritation and bleeding.
• Bacterial or Viral Infections – Salmonella, parvovirus, and Clostridium infections can lead to bloody diarrhea.
• Dietary Indiscretion – Eating spoiled food, foreign objects, or toxic substances can irritate the digestive tract.
• Colitis (Inflammation of the Colon) – This can result from stress, food intolerance, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Anal Gland Issues – Impacted or infected anal glands can rupture, leading to blood in the stool.
• Cancer or Polyps – Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract can cause bleeding.
• Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) – A life-threatening condition causing severe bloody diarrhea and dehydration.

Why Is My Dog’s Stool Orange?

Orange-colored feces in dogs can result from:

• Liver or Gallbladder Issues – A malfunctioning liver or bile duct obstruction can cause orange stools.
• Dietary Changes – Certain foods, artificial coloring, or high-fat diets may lead to orange-colored poop.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders – Infections or malabsorption issues may disrupt digestion and stool pigmentation.
• Medications – Some antibiotics and supplements can temporarily alter stool color.

When to See a Veterinarian

Contact your vet immediately if your dog has:

✔ Persistent or heavy bleeding in the stool
✔ Orange stool accompanied by vomiting or lethargy
✔ Signs of dehydration, weakness, or fever
✔ Black, tarry stools (possible internal bleeding)

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your veterinarian may perform fecal tests, blood work, X-rays, or ultrasounds to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may involve:

• Deworming medications for parasites
• Dietary modifications for food-related issues
• Antibiotics or probiotics for bacterial infections
• IV fluids and supportive care for dehydration
• Surgery or specialized treatment for tumors or severe conditions

Final Thoughts

Blood in your dog’s stool or orange-colored feces should never be ignored. While some cases resolve with minor dietary changes, others require urgent veterinary care. Monitoring your dog’s bowel movements and seeking timely treatment can prevent complications and ensure your pet stays healthy.