Bruising (Hematoma) in the Skin and Gums in cats
When to visit the vet?
Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours
Red, if additionally petechiae, nose/mouth Bleeding, black stool color, blood in urine, apathy, or circulatory signs
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Definition
Bruising, also known as hematoma, are collections of blood outside the blood vessels, often visible as blue marks under the skin or in the gums. In cats, such bruising can be caused by injuries or medical conditions.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Bruising in cats occurs when blood vessels are damaged and blood leaks into the surrounding tissue. This can happen due to mechanical injuries, such as bumps or blows. Cats can easily injure themselves in daily life, especially if they are active or live in an environment that poses many dangers.
Another common reason for hematoma is blood coagulation disorders. With these disorders, the blood cannot clot normally, which means that even small injuries can lead to large bruising. Causes of blood coagulation disorders include genetic diseases, liver diseases, vitamin K deficiency, or the intake of certain medications that affect blood coagulation.
Cats can also develop bruising due to infections or Inflammatory conditions. Some infectious diseases, such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) or Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), affect the immune system and can impair blood coagulation.
Finally, tumors or other abnormal tissue growths can affect the integrity of blood vessels and lead to bruising. If a tumor grows near blood vessels, it can displace or damage them, thus causing Bleeding.
Typical accompanying symptoms
- Swelling: Bruising can be accompanied by swelling of the affected area, which is due to the accumulation of blood and the body’s inflammatory response.
- Pain: The affected cat may show pain when the hematoma is touched, which is due to the pressure of the collected blood on the surrounding tissue.
- Behavioral changes: Cats with pain or discomfort due to bruising may withdraw, be less active, or refuse to be touched.
- Bleeding gums: Bruising in the gums can be accompanied by spontaneous bleeding or an unusually pale color of the gums, which indicates possible anemia.
- Weakness or Lethargy: In cases of severe or extensive bruising, a cat may show weakness or lethargy, especially if the blood loss is significant.
When to see a vet?
It is important to consult a veterinarian if a cat develops unusual bruising, especially if it occurs without an apparent reason. Bruising accompanied by other symptoms such as bleeding gums, lethargy, or behavioral changes requires an immediate veterinary examination.
If the cat shows signs of Pain or refuses to eat and drink, a veterinarian should also be consulted as soon as possible. These symptoms can indicate a serious underlying condition that requires urgent treatment.
Even if a cat already has known health problems, such as a diagnosed coagulation disorder or liver disease, it is important to inform the veterinarian about new or worsening bruising and to arrange for further examination.
Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure
The first step in the diagnosis of bruising in cats is to take the cat’s medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. The veterinarian will ask about possible injuries, recently taken medications, and known health problems.
Blood tests are crucial to determine the cause of the bruising. These may include complete blood counts, which provide information about the number and type of blood cells, as well as specific tests to assess blood coagulation. These tests help identify blood coagulation disorders or infections.
In some cases, it may be necessary to use imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasound to detect internal injuries or tumors that could be causing bruising. Depending on the suspicion, a tissue sample (biopsy) may also be required for a more precise diagnosis.
What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options
As a pet owner, you can first ensure that your cat remains in a safe environment to avoid further injuries. Remove potential hazards and restrict access to areas where the cat could fall or get trapped.
Avoid touching or massaging the affected areas, as this could increase the Pain. Instead, ensure that the cat remains in a calm and stress-free environment to support the healing process.
Make sure your cat gets enough water and food. If necessary, the food can be softened to facilitate intake, especially with bruising in the gum area.
It is important to follow all veterinary instructions, including administering medication if prescribed. Painkillers should only be given after consulting a veterinarian, as many human painkillers can be toxic to cats.
Observe your cat closely for changes in behavior or the condition of the bruising. If there is a worsening or new symptoms appear, you should contact the veterinarian immediately.
Outlook on current research
Research into the identification and treatment of hematoma in cats has made progress in recent years, particularly through the development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures. These procedures allow veterinarians to determine the cause of bruising more accurately without the need for invasive interventions. Modern imaging technologies, such as ultrasound and MRI, allow a detailed view of blood vessels and tissues, which facilitates the determination of the bleeding origin.
Genetic studies are another focus of current research. Scientists are investigating genetic markers that could lead to an increased susceptibility to bruising in some cats. These studies help to better understand how genetic predispositions affect blood coagulation and how they can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of bruising.
Another area of research is the role of nutrition and environmental factors in the development of hematoma. Studies have shown that malnutrition, especially a deficiency in important vitamins and minerals, can increase the risk of bruising. Research focuses on how a balanced diet can contribute to the prevention of hematoma.
The development of medications for the treatment of blood coagulation disorders that lead to bruising is also an active research area. New therapeutic approaches aim to improve the blood’s clotting ability without increasing the risk of thrombosis. These medications could be crucial for cats that are prone to hematoma due to genetic or acquired disorders.
Finally, research is investigating the effects of stress and psychological factors on the development of hematoma. There is evidence that stress can affect blood coagulation, which could lead to a higher tendency for bruising. Further studies are needed to understand the exact mechanisms and develop appropriate therapy strategies.