See a vet now
Blood in vomit can look like bright red streaks or like coffee grounds (digested blood). A small streak after forceful vomiting can come from minor irritation, but larger amounts or coffee-ground material point to bleeding in the stomach or upper gut.
See a vet now if you notice:
- Retching with nothing coming up and a swollen belly (bloat)
- Blood or coffee-ground material
- Vomiting with diarrhea, lethargy or belly pain
- Not keeping water down, or not eating for 24 hours
- Possible toxin, string or swallowed object
- A puppy, senior or dog with health problems
Possible causes
- Stomach ulcers (including from ibuprofen or other NSAIDs)
- Swallowed sharp objects or bones
- Rat poison (anticoagulant) or other toxins
- Severe gastroenteritis or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
- Clotting problems, tumors or liver disease
What to do
- Call your vet now. Same-day care is needed, and an emergency vet if there is more than a streak.
- Take a photo of the vomit and bring any packaging if a toxin is possible.
- Do not give human medicines.