Why is my pet's poop dark, bloody, or tarry with mucus? Is it serious?

Black, tar-like stools are common with bleeding in the stomach, upper GI tract. Bleeding that occurs lower in the GI tract with have red blood in the stools. I have never needed a human test to check for blood in the GI tract. Gastroenteritis is a common cause for blood in vomit and/or stools. Some cases are mild and respond to medications and out-patient treatment, while others, such as HGE, require hospitalization, IV fluids, and IV medications. Some dogs will have very dark stools that are normal and do not contain blood.

I'm concerned about this stool. Dark tarry stool like this can be a sign of stomach or intestinal bleeding. The bleeding could be from medication, parasites, a gastric ulcer or cancer. I'm glad Truman is feeling better but I recommend a veterinary exam soon. They will run a blood panel to check for anemia, perhaps check for intestinal parasites, and perhaps due some X-rays. It's important to find the cause of this so this doesn't become a more serious medical problem. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Truman.

Black tar-like diarrhea is a sign of digessted blood and a serious condition that needs to be checked out by a veterinarian. This could be caused by ulcers, a tumor an injury to the upper airways with blood being swallowed, or an esphageal bleeding. Your dog needs to be seen by a veterinarian now, who will do blood tests, radiographs. Your dog may have to be hospitalised.

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.

More than likely it is from the change in food but black, tarry stool can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding. You could take a sample to your vet, when you notice that it is black, and have it tested for blood. That way you will know if it is anything to worry about or just normal color change.

Yes, black tarry stools are a red flag for internal bleeding, either from upper gi tract or swallowed from.upper respiratory or dental trauma. A full vet check is recommended, this would be urgent if any weakness, breathing difficulty or vomiting is observed

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I highly recommend that you have Nico evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible for further assessment and treatment. Black tarry stools can be observed with upper gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. Things like parvovirus, gastrointestinal ulcers or parasites, among other possibilities can cause that. Good luck!