It’s frightening to see an old dog pooping blood and refusing to eat. These symptoms can indicate a serious medical emergency and should never be ignored.
We outline the common causes of old dog pooping blood and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Pooping Blood and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Blood in the stool and appetite loss in senior dogs can signal anything from intestinal inflammation to cancer or life-threatening infections. The digestive tract is sensitive, and in older dogs, even minor disruptions can lead to severe consequences. When eating stops and blood appears in the stool, it’s a clear sign the body is in distress.
Dog Vomiting White Foam and Mucus
Seeing your dog vomit a mixture of white foam and mucus can be alarming. This combination suggests inflammation or irritation in the upper digestive tract, and while it may resolve on its own in mild cases, persistent or repeated vomiting needs prompt attention.
We outline the common causes of dog vomiting white foam and mucus, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Vomiting White Foam and Mucus — Why It Happens
White foam mixed with mucus in your dog’s vomit usually means the stomach lining or esophagus is irritated and producing excess secretions. This may be due to infection, swallowed irritants, acid reflux, or chronic conditions like gastritis or kennel cough (if respiratory mucus is involved).
Common Causes of Dog Vomiting White Foam and Mucus
Gastritis (Stomach Inflammation)
Gastritis occurs when the stomach lining becomes inflamed due to poor diet, toxins, infections, or stress.
The stomach may produce thick mucus and acid, which appear as slimy white foam when vomited.
Dogs with gastritis may also show signs of nausea, such as lip licking, drooling, and decreased appetite.
Treatment may include fasting, bland diet, and veterinary-prescribed medications to reduce stomach acid and promote healing.
Ingestion of Irritants or Toxins
Household chemicals, spoiled food, or even grass and plants can irritate the digestive tract.
This triggers mucus production to protect the lining, leading to foamy or slimy vomit.
If the irritant is still present in the body, vomiting may recur. Monitor for additional symptoms like lethargy or diarrhea and call your vet.
Related: Dog vomiting and not eating (Causes and what to do)
Acid Reflux or Bilious Vomiting Syndrome
Reflux or bile-induced vomiting is more likely to happen after long periods without food, particularly in the morning or late at night.
Stomach acid and mucus mix together, creating thick, foamy vomit with a slippery texture.
Smaller, more frequent meals and feeding before bed may reduce symptoms, but chronic cases should be evaluated.
Kennel Cough or Respiratory Illness
Sometimes dogs with kennel cough or other upper respiratory issues cough so hard they retch up mucus mixed with white foam.
This can look like vomiting but may actually be post-nasal drainage or coughed-up mucus.
Watch for signs of coughing, nasal discharge, or difficulty breathing, and see your vet if symptoms continue.
Parasites or Digestive Infection
Intestinal parasites or bacterial infections can cause inflammation that leads to excess mucus in the GI tract.
This may be expelled through vomiting or diarrhea. You might also notice weight loss, a dull coat, or poor appetite.
A stool test is needed to diagnose and treat parasites effectively.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Vomiting White Foam and Mucus
Withhold food for 12–24 hours while providing small amounts of water or ice cubes to prevent dehydration.
Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, and energy level. Keep your dog calm and limit activity until symptoms subside.
Do not give medications without your vet’s approval. Many human remedies are toxic to dogs or can mask underlying issues.
Monitor how frequently your dog vomits and the appearance of the mucus. If vomiting occurs more than once or worsens, contact your vet.
Keep potential irritants, cleaning products, and toxic plants out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your vet if your dog:
Vomits mucus or foam more than once in 24 hours
Becomes lethargic, refuses food, or appears dehydrated
Has diarrhea, bloating, or abnormal breathing
Has persistent coughing or signs of kennel cough
Is a young puppy, senior, or has a preexisting condition
Veterinarians may perform bloodwork, x-rays, or endoscopy to identify inflammation, foreign objects, or infection.
Related Blogs
Read more: [Dog Vomiting White Foam and Gagging] (Could it be more than just an upset stomach?)
Related: Dog vomiting foam and not eating (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Vomiting white foam and mucus may look harmless, but it can point to serious digestive irritation or illness.
Track your dog’s symptoms and behavior closely. If vomiting continues or your dog shows additional warning signs, don’t delay in seeking veterinary help. Prompt care can help your dog recover faster and avoid complications.