Overview
Anal sac disease is a common and very smelly problem. If you have ever experienced an atrocious odor coming from the backside of your beloved cat, you have probably had the pleasure of smelling anal gland discharge.
Anal sac disease can occur when a cat’s anal glands fail to expel fluid properly. This fluid, used to mark territory, is normally expelled during defecation. If the fluid builds up in the glands, it can cause pain and infection, and sometimes even lead to abscesses and rupture.
Risk
All cats are at risk for this odiferous issue.
Signs
So what do you need to watch out for? Aside from the very foul odor, cats with impacted or infected anal glands may scoot their butts on the ground or lick excessively at fur on their hindquarters. They may also have difficulty defecating.
Diagnosing
Though your compadre will most likely protest, a rectal exam is usually performed by your veterinarian to determine if the glands are impacted or infected. If they are, your veterinarian will manually express the fluid by squeezing the glands. Additionally, depending on the severity of the condition and if the glands are infected, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics.
Prevention
Anal gland problems are common. If your cat has a recurring issue with them, your veterinarian may suggest a high-fiber diet to help prevent future problems. Additionally, your veterinarian may show you how you can express the blocked glands at home.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.