Bloody Urine
Overview:
Bloody urine is usually seen when the patient urinates on the carpet or tile in the home. However, it can also be seen on the pet’s hair around the vulva or penis. This indicates damage to the urinary system or can be a sign of more serious internal problems.
Causes:
The most common reason for bloody urine is a urinary tract infection. Bacteria will cause the bladder wall to become inflamed and it will bleed. Urinary stones (urolithiasis) can also cause damage to the bladder wall. Illnesses or toxicities causing anemias can make pets urinate blood. Animals undergoing chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide will develop hemorrhagic cystitis.
Symptoms:
Most pets will drink more, urinate more, appear painful when they urinate, or lick at their private area excessively. Some will squat to urinate but can not produce any urine. Cats may cry while in the litter box. Pets that are urinating pure blood need to see the doctor immediately.
Treatment:
If the cause is just a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. Urinary stones will potentially need to be surgically removed. If there is a more serious cause for the bloody urine (immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, toxicities), the pet may need to be hospitalized with fluids or injectable steroids.
