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My senior Chihuahua has bloody stool, eats, but isn't gaining weight.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | 3 lbs

Why is my older Chihuahua having bloody stool with mucus and eats but will not gain much weight

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5 Answers

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2017

Based on what you seeing, having a fecal sample brought in to your veterinarian for analysis would be a great plan. He or she will be able to tell you if there are any intestinal parasites present. This is one of the most common reasons for blood in the stool, and weight loss despite a normal appetite. If you can not get to the veterinarian, treatment with a dewormer and/or drug to kill coccidia might be warranted. These can be obtained at most pet stores or tractor supply.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    What a little cutie Maddy is, but I'm sorry she isn't doing well! It could be that she is suffering from colitis which is an inflammation of the colon and large intestine that causes bloody stool. It could also be something more serious such as a GI tumor leading to the bloody stool and losing weight. It's quite serious she has these combination of symptoms, and Maddy needs to see a vet as soon as possible for a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis. The vet can diagnose what is causing her symptoms and can discuss treatment options with you. Please bring her into a vet right away.

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 11th, 2018

    It's possible Louie may have some internal parasites going on, GI issues, or even an underlying metabolic issue causing him to be more hungry and have bloody stools, especially since he is a senior dog. It would be best to seek out veterinary care for a complete exam along with bloodwork and a fecal exam (you can bring in a sample with you to his appointment). This can help look for common issues such as parasites, GI problems and metabolic issues causing his change in appetite and bloody stool so that you can treat them accordingly.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 10th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Sebby! If the bloody stool is reoccurring and due to his age I would do blood work, be sure a rectal exam was done, fecal testing, and his anal glands were checked. I would consider a prescription GI diet for several weeks and a probiotic. He may have underlying intestinal disease like inflammatory bowel disease, low B12, pancreatic disease or simple isn't digesting his food the same way. I wish you the best!

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on November 18th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. Bloody stools can be seen with certain conditions such as colitis. I recommend that you have Gidget evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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