What are the common causes of nosebleeds in dogs and cats?

Nasal bleeding can result from a range of causes, including local trauma, nasal infections, dental disease, foreign bodies, or clotting disorders. A veterinary examination is needed to identify the specific cause.

What can I do at home as a first step?

Keep the environment calm and soothe your pet to prevent them from pawing or scratching at their nose. If the bleeding is heavy or does not stop, seek veterinary attention immediately.

When is a CT scan or rhinoscopy recommended?

The vet may recommend a CT scan or rhinoscopy when bleeding is recurrent, the source is unclear, or there is suspicion of a local mass or foreign body.

Can nosebleeds affect vision or cause other complications?

Severe blood loss or concurrent eye disease can affect vision. If you notice any changes in vision or unusual behaviour, seek veterinary care promptly.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Nosebleeds in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care Guide [2025]

Nasal bleeding in pets can stem from trauma, infection, tumours, or clotting disorders. A thorough examination is needed to identify the cause, as treatment depends on the underlying condition.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Heavy nosebleed that keeps gushing and cannot be stopped
•Sudden blindness in both eyes or disorientation
•Recurrent fainting or persistent confusion

Schedule a veterinary visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Recurrent nosebleeds that can be briefly stopped
•Blood in the urine or stool, or black stools
•Reduced appetite with markedly decreased energy and activity

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Epistaxis in dogs and cats can present in various ways. Beyond obvious nasal bleeding, it is often accompanied by systemic or behavioural changes — watch closely for signs of an emergency.

Visible and persistent bleeding from the nose or external nasal area
Reduced vision or sudden loss of sight
Blood or blood clots visible in urine
Black or bright red stools, suggesting possible gastrointestinal bleeding
Rapid breathing, abnormal heart rate, or reduced activity
Changes in mental alertness, lethargy, or decreased appetite

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Heavy nasal bleeding that is continuous and cannot be stopped
⚠️ Sudden loss of vision or poor orientation and disorientation
⚠️ Fainting or persistent loss of consciousness

02How to assess the situation at home: key observations and emergency criteria

Observing and recording key information at home helps the vet quickly assess the source and severity of the bleeding.

Record changes in alertness, responsiveness, and activity level
Track appetite, food intake, and water consumption daily
Note the colour and frequency of urination and bowel movements
Weigh your pet regularly and monitor for weight changes
Take photos or video of the nasal bleeding and any related symptoms if possible

03How will the vet diagnose the problem? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, the vet will combine physical examination with imaging and laboratory tests to identify the source of bleeding and assess its systemic impact.

Blood pressure measurement

to assess the risk of haemorrhagic shock

Blood panel

to check for anaemia and clotting abnormalities

Urinalysis

to rule out renal or urinary tract sources of bleeding

X-rays

to evaluate the nasal cavity, teeth, and chest

Rhinoscopy or CT scan for detailed local assessment

Biopsy or cytology to confirm the nature of any lesion

04Treatment and aftercare: medications, dietary changes, and home care guide

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of bleeding. Short- and long-term follow-up are often needed to prevent recurrence and address any underlying condition.

Short-term: the vet will determine whether antibiotics or haemostatic measures are needed
Localised lesions may require surgical or endoscopic intervention
Severe anaemia may require blood transfusion or supportive care
Regular follow-up visits to monitor blood values and imaging findings
Long-term management may include medications, dietary adjustments, or specialist follow-up
Referral to a specialist (ENT or oncology) may be recommended when appropriate

05What to prepare before your vet visit: key information to help identify the cause

Note when the first episode occurred and how symptoms have changed over time

List the timing, estimated amount, and colour of each nosebleed

Document recent diet, any foreign body ingestion, or history of trauma

Bring a list of current medications and supplements

Share any photos or video footage of the bleeding or abnormal stools if available

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.