Understanding Your Cat's Anal Glands

In this guide

It is not the most glamorous corner of cat care, but anal gland health is worth understanding, if only so you can recognise when something is actually wrong. The good news is that cats have far fewer anal gland problems than dogs do, and most cats go their whole lives without ever needing help with them.

What these glands do

Cats have two small anal sacs, positioned roughly at the four and eight o'clock points around the anus, that produce a strong smelling fluid used for scent marking. Under normal circumstances, a firm, well formed stool applies enough pressure during defecation to empty these glands naturally, so most cats never need manual help.

Signs your cat may be having trouble

• Scooting, or dragging the bottom along the floor
• Excessive licking or biting at the area under the tail
• A strong, unpleasant odour that is more noticeable than usual
• Visible swelling on either side of the anus
• Straining or discomfort during a bowel movement
• In more serious cases, a burst abscess, which can appear as an open sore near the anus

Chronic soft stools or diarrhoea can also make problems more likely, since loose stool does not apply the same natural pressure to express the glands.

What to do about it

If you notice any of these signs, the safest step is a vet visit rather than attempting to handle it yourself. Expressing anal glands incorrectly can introduce bacteria and cause a painful infection, and the area is sensitive enough that an anxious or wriggling cat can easily be hurt in the process. A vet or experienced groomer can express the glands safely, and if infection or impaction is present, may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatories alongside it.

Cats that develop recurring anal gland issues sometimes benefit from a change in diet, particularly one with more fibre to help bulk up stool and support natural expression. This is worth discussing with your vet if the problem keeps coming back, since some cats do need a regular expression schedule while others need only occasional attention.

Tags: cat anal glands, cat health, cat grooming, Indian pet care

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