My cat has black runny stool but is eating and purring. What to do?

There are a number of concerns here but the development of blacker stools can be indicative of internal bleeding and requires urgent veterinary assessment and a check up of kidney function and dental health (swallowed blood can be detected in stools). It sounds like she has also suffered from colitis and/or pancreatitis (soft, slimey, malodorous) in the past and diet change to a high fiber, low fat complete food may help depending on the findings of her physical exam and blood/urine tests

It is possible that this particular stool was difficult to pass and you helping to remove it may have caused a small amount of bleeding from the rectal tissue. Cats can become constipated, and if she has been passing less stool than usual, straining to defecate and had a decreased appetite I would recommend seeing a veterinarian. There are some other things that can cause blood in the stool as well including intestinal parasites, colitis or even inflammatory bowel disease. If the blood is persistent you should make an appointment to see your veterinarian as well.

Black or tarry stool is a serious and concerning symptom that can sometimes indicate a bleed in the stomach or upper GI tract. Other issues such as parasites, food allergies, or ingestion of certain items may also cause the stool to darken or change colors. If Rowan continues to act oddly, has additional dark or tarry stool, or shows new symptoms of illness, seeking veterinary care in person ASAP is best.

This could definitely be because of the change of food but the black color concerns me that there may be digested blood present. Since she is so young and tiny, I would consider this urgent so I would try to get her into the vet soon. I would that she may become dehydrated or sicker if it isn't addressed. Your vet will likely want to run a fecal on her to check for any intestinal parasites. They may also want to know the food you are feeding her. I hope this helps and she starts to feel better soon.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Bloody stools can be observed with conditions such as colitis, gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, intestinal parasites, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Smokey evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They may choose to check for parasites and to start medications for diarrhea depending on the results. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Blood in the feces can be caused by many different things including diarrhea (can be caused by eating something silly, worms, toxins), can also be caused by rat bait toxin, clotting factor problems, or an abscess. If there is blood dripping from the bum, then I would recommend having Krookie seen by a vet as soon as possible, as some of these conditions can be fatal if not treated right away. Likely it will be something that can be fixed with some medications, however best to get it checked right away. Best of luck with Krookie.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Barb. I'm glad to hear that she is still eating and acting like herself. If a cat experiences a bit of difficulty passing a bowel movement, they will strain. This can irritate the colon resulting in bright red blood streaks on the feces. Contact you veterinarian in the morning. Fecal testing will likely be recommended to rule out any intestinal parasites causing the blood. A diet modification may be needed to make it easier for her to pass stool if this becomes a repeated problem for her. You can add canned food for the extra moisture content or your veterinarian may recommend a higher fiber food or supplement. I hope this information helps!