Cats are known for their grooming and independence, but sometimes, health issues arise that require a closer look. One such concern is anal gland infections, a condition that can cause discomfort and even lead to complications if left untreated.
These small, sac-like structures play a role in marking territory and communication, but when they become blocked or infected, it can lead to noticeable symptoms like scooting, excessive licking, or swelling. In this blog, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options to help your feline companion feel comfortable again.
Why Do Cats Have Anal Glands?
Cats have scent glands near the anus, at the 4 and 8 o'clock position. These glands produce a very pungent secretion with each stool, which douses the stool in the cat's signature odor. This helps other cats recognise that this cat was here and follow its movements- it's like the feline version of social media. The smell is used for territorial marking and for cats to know one another.
In a healthy cat, the pressure from the stool when defecating will help squeeze the glands out. However, when this system is disrupted it may lead to many health conditions, including the cat anal gland infection and blocked anal glands in cats.
Common Feline Anal Gland Issues
Here are 3 common cat anal gland issues:
1. Impaction
The fluid within the glands becomes thickened and solidified, building up to such a point that it may form impactions so that the cat then cannot expel, causing discomfort to the cat and if left untreated can lead to infection.
2. Infection
A cat anal gland infection occurs when bacteria grow inside the glands, causing inflammation and swelling. If left untreated, this infection can worsen and lead to more severe complications, including abscesses. The infection can cause a cat’s anal area to become red, swollen, and painful.
3. Abscesses
An abscess is a painful swelling that is filled with pus that may rupture, and its leakage might be seen as pus or blood coming out from the anus of the cat. Infected anal glands in cats can be excruciating and sometimes even cause more severe complications if not treated immediately.
4. Cancer
While this is quite rare, chronic or recurrent anal gland disease, such as successive episodes of abscess or infection, can eventually cause cancer. That's why regular check-ups and prompt treatment of the cat's anal gland problems are of utmost importance to maintaining your cat's health and well-being.
Signs of Anal Gland Disease in Cats
Identifying the signs of anal gland disease in cats will help prevent extreme complications. Some common signs that might indicate your cat has an issue with its anal glands are as follows:
- Lifting arse: Cats whose anal glands are dysfunctional often sit on their rear end to relieve discomfort.
- Dragging its bottom: A common behavior is scooting, dragging the bottom of a cat across the floor to relieve irritation caused by blocked or swollen anal glands.
- Excessive licking: Cats may lick their anal area to soothe pain or irritation around the area.
- Pain around the tail and anus: Your cat may react with signs of pain to the touch of areas surrounding the tail.
- Swollen anus: You may find that there is swelling or redness around the anus.
- Blood or pus oozing from anus: Such an indication says it's more serious since you'll find blood or pus coming out of the anus, showing infection or an abscess.
- Biting or scratching: Your cat might be seen biting or scratching the area near the tail or anus, due to pain caused by inflamed and blocked anal glands.
- Bleeding from the anus: Older cats can also point toward some underlying health issues, including more advanced anal gland problems or other systemic conditions.
Treatment for Cat Anal Gland Problems
The treatment for anal gland issues in cats depends on the severity of the condition. In most cases, if the glands simply impaction, a veterinarian will need to manually relieve the glands. This is done by gently applying pressure to release the contents of the glands. If an infection has occurred, your vet might prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
If an abscess forms, a vet might have to drain pus and administer antibiotics over the infected site to prevent further infection. In some cases, surgery can be required to drain an abscess or remove infected glands.
Cats suffering from chronic or recurrent anal gland problems should often be considered for surgical excision of the glands. This way, problems are prevented, although this procedure is usually recommended only in more severe cases.
Prevention and Diet for Healthy Anal Glands
Preventing anal gland problems in cats often involves dietary changes. Cats with recurring anal gland issues are commonly placed on a high-fiber diet to help bulk up their stool. Firmer stools tend to put more pressure on the anal glands, thus aiding in their proper functioning and decreasing the incidence of impaction. Some good dietary options for cats suffering from anal gland problems are:
Royal Canin Fibre Response
It is designed to support healthy digestion, is a high-fiber diet that provides added nutrients to the digestive system, coupled with prebiotics to maintain healthy gut bacteria.
Protexin Pro-fibre
Protexin Pro-fibre helps improve digestive health due to a high fibre intake. This supplement also prevents such medical conditions as impaction and coprophagia, which can be caused by low-fiber diets. Ensuring that your feline pet has adequate fiber in his diet will support his digestive health and prevent any future anal gland issues.
Conclusion
Feline anal gland problems, including cat anal gland infection, impaction, and abscesses, are common health issues that can cause significant discomfort for your cat if left untreated. Recognising the symptoms and seeking veterinary care promptly is crucial in addressing these issues effectively. With proper treatment and dietary management, you can help your cat avoid recurring anal gland problems and maintain their overall health and happiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are anal glands in cats?
The anal glands in a cat are small sacs located near the anus. They produce a pungent secretion used for territorial marking by the cat. These glands are typically expressed during defecation as the cat leaves its scent to be recognized by other felines and mark its territory.
What would happen if your cat's anal glands become impacted?
Impacted anal glands occur as the substance inside the glands becomes thickened and cannot be expelled naturally. This can cause discomfort and swelling, and results in infection if not treated. The vet will manually express the glands.
How can I tell if my cat has an anal gland infection?
An infection with the anal glands of cats is signified by swelling and redness around the anus, excessive licking and biting of the tail end, scooting, and pus or blood. These are symptoms of an infection or an abscess that need to be immediately attended to by a veterinarian.
Can anal gland issues contribute to cancer in cats?
Sometimes, chronic anal gland issues, for example, chronic infections or repeated development of abscesses, may result in cancer, which, however, is unusual. However, left untreated, they may lead to serious complications, thus requiring veterinary care when the condition of the anal glands recurs frequently.
What should be done for a cat with the anal glands blocked?
Blocked anal glands are usually treated by a veterinarian by manually expressing the glands. If an infection or abscesses are also present, a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, and the abscesses may need to be drained. In some cases, surgery to remove the glands is advised, especially in chronic cases.
What can I do to prevent my cat from getting anal gland problems?
Prevention of anal gland disease in cats requires feeding a high-fiber diet to ensure bowel movements are regular and glands are expressed properly. Fiber in diets bulks up stools, putting pressure on the glands to function correctly and thus reducing infections.
Can older cats suffer from anal gland problems?
Yes, older cats can develop anal gland issues, including bleeding from the anus, due to weakened or less efficient gland function. As cats age, they may become more prone to conditions like impaction, infections, or abscesses, requiring regular veterinary check-ups and dietary adjustments.
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