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Kitten has bloody mucus in litter box, refusing food. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My 5 month old rescue kitten passed clumps of mucus and blood in his litter box. I don't know if it's a urethral mucus plug or from a bowel movement, but it was clumped and sprayed everywhere. He's been having elimination issues, and is refusing food now. What do I do etc?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 21st, 2018

Oh, that looks like a fair amount of blood. It's concerning that he is passing clumps of mucus and blood, and is now refusing food. It's quite serious when a cat refuses food, as if they don't eat going on 72 hours, they develop a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment. Because I can't see him in person to say he will be ok, I think it's best he sees a vet now. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on June 17th, 2018

    Poor Hercules! It sounds like he's in extremely serious condition, and needs to see a veterinarian immediately. I would recommend taking him to the nearest emergency clinic in your area, even if this is a bit of a drive. If you're not sure where to go, try calling your regular vet's office - their voicemail message should have contact information for the nearest emergency clinic, or an on-call doctor for emergencies.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 25th, 2018

    Without seeing her in person it is difficult to know exactly what is going on. This could be an umbilical hernia, a local infection, or even a parasite embedded under the skin. I would have your vet take a look at her to ensure everything is normal and to see whether or not he needs any treatment. I hope this helps!

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