Symptom: Nosebleed (Epistaxis) – Why is my cat or dog’s nose bleeding?
Signs my pet has a nosebleed
Blood or blood-tinged mucus from one or both nostrils
Sneezing, snorting, pawing at the nose, or rubbing the face
Blood may be seen on bedding, paws, or around the nose
You may also notice:
Vomiting or dark stools from swallowing blood
Lethargy or reduced activity
Pale gums, bruising, or facial swelling
'My pet has a nosebleed' - Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons that my pet has a nosebleed
- Trauma (injury or accidents)
- Nasal tumours or polyps
- Foreign bodies (e.g. grass seeds)
- Dental disease
- Infections (bacterial or fungal)
- Blood clotting disorders
- Inflammation or allergy
Further reading: Dental Disease in Cats, Dental Disease in Dogs
DO's - What I can do at home if my pet has a nosebleed
- Stay calm and keep your pet quiet
- Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose
- Observe the source of the bleeding
- Contact your vet for advice
DON'Ts - What I shouldn’t do at home if my pet has a nosebleed
- Do not insert anything into the nostrils
- Do not tilt your pet’s head back
- Do not give human medications
- Do not allow excitement or exercise
My pet has a nosebleed - when is it an emergency?
Contact your vet urgently if:
- The bleeding does not stop within a few minutes
- The bleeding is heavy or from both nostrils
- Your pet has difficulty breathing, lethargy, or facial swelling
- You notice pale gums or bruising
- The nosebleeds are recurrent
Written by Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published July 2025 | Review date July 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet.