How to Express Your Cat's Anal Glands

Have you ever heard of a cat's "anal glands"?

Some owners might feel anxious, having heard things like, "A smelly fluid came out of my cat's bottom," or "If you don't express the anal glands, they might rupture."

In this article, we would like to explain clearly how to care for your cat’s anal glands and how to express them to answer those very questions.

What are a cat's anal glands?

A cat's anal glands are small, sac-like structures located on both sides of the anus, formally known as "anal sacs."

Secretions from the anal glands accumulate inside these sacs, and they have quite a strong odor...

This foul-smelling secretion is called "anal gland fluid" or "anal sac fluid," and it is used for scent marking. When cats sniff each other's bottoms, they are actually exchanging information through the scent of these anal glands.

The consistency of the fluid varies; for some cats, it is a thick, pasty substance, while for others, it is thin and liquid. The color also varies widely among individuals, ranging from brown to yellow or gray.

The anal sac fluid is normally expelled along with bowel movements. It can also be squirted out suddenly when the cat is nervous or startled.

If you notice a bad smell after your cat is startled by a loud noise and jumps, it might be due to the anal glands.

Anal gland diseases in cats

You might see "anal gland expression" listed as a service at dog grooming salons. Is this necessary for cats as well?

Hearing that "the anal glands could rupture" can be frightening. First, let's learn the facts about anal gland diseases in cats.

Cat anal gland disease: "Anal sacculitis"

Normally, the anal sac fluid is expelled naturally along with feces.

However, for cats that are sedentary, dehydrated, kittens, or seniors with reduced muscle tone, the fluid may not be expelled properly and can accumulate.

If the anal glands become blocked or infected with bacteria, the anal sacs can become inflamed.The condition where pus accumulates, causing redness, swelling, and a bulging anus, is called "anal sacculitis."

Cat anal gland disease: "Anal gland rupture"

If the anal glands become blocked and too much fluid accumulates, they can rupture.The skin near the anus breaks, and pus drains from the site. If you notice your cat's bottom is wet and smells bad, there may be a suspicion of an anal gland rupture.

Treatment for anal sacculitis and rupture

The first step is to gently press the anal glands to express all the accumulated fluid. If the glands are blocked, a catheter may be inserted to flush them with saline. In many cases, the cat recovers after the administration of antibiotics.

If the anal glands have ruptured, surgical suturing will be necessary. If a cat suffers from recurring anal sacculitis or ruptures, surgery to remove the anal sacs may be recommended.

Be careful if your cat is "scooting"!

Have you ever seen your cat stretch their legs out and walk while dragging their bottom across the floor?

This behavior, often called "scooting" or "tank-cat," might look cute, but it could actually mean they are feeling discomfort from full anal glands.

Additionally, if your cat is frequently preoccupied with or obsessively licking their bottom, there is a high possibility that their anal glands are full.

If you notice frequent scooting, constant licking, an unwillingness to sit, signs of anger when the bottom is touched, or a foul odor from the area, please take your cat to a veterinary clinic.

How to express a cat's anal glands and frequency

For cats prone to full anal glands, regular expression may be beneficial. However, it is very difficult for an owner to perform this on their own cat.

There is a risk of injuring the anal glands if done incorrectly, so please be sure to have a veterinarian show you how or have them perform the procedure at the clinic.

How to express the anal glands

A cat's anal glands are located at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions below the anus. Place your fingers on these spots and press upward to express them.

Be careful, as the fluid can shoot out or splatter. It is recommended to do this in the bathroom or while holding a tissue over the area. If your cat resists, please do not force the process.

Frequency and guidelines for expression

For cats with a history of anal sacculitis or ruptured glands, express them once every 1 to 2 months. The guidelines for when to express them include observing if the cat is scooting or showing concern about their bottom. If you notice any abnormalities, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Summary

Cat anal glands contain foul-smelling secretions, and if not expelled naturally, they can lead to "anal sacculitis" or "anal gland rupture."

Though not widely known, you should be aware of anal gland diseases in cats.

While cats prone to full glands require regular expression, it is quite difficult to do. It is a delicate area, and the procedure requires a certain level of skill. We recommend having your veterinarian handle it rather than trying it at home.

Scooting might be a sign of an anal gland issue. Keep your cat's anal area clean and check occasionally for inflammation or swelling.

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