Cats: Common Anal Gland Diseases Explained
These glands, located adjacent to the glandular tissue, secrete noxious waste products that aid in territorial marking and can be expelled when cats feel fear or anxiety. When one or both anal glands become inflamed, infected, develop abscesses, or become blocked, anal gland disease occurs. This condition is quite common in both cats and dogs, though cats tend to suffer from anal gland disease more frequently, while dogs are more prone to anal gland infections or abscesses. The disease arises when the anal secretions accumulate, harden, and become pasty, leading to discomfort and issues.
How do cats contract anal gland disease?
Generally, when cats defecate, the anal glands are emptied as the feces are pushed out of the rectum under the pressure of the rectal contents. The gland secretions are typically thick, milky white, and have an extremely unpleasant odor, often wrapped around the outer layer of the feces. One of the most common causes of anal gland disease is feeding a diet low in fiber. A diet rich in fiber ensures that a cat's feces are wellformed, with the right shape, size, and quantity. This way, when a cat feels the urge to defecate, the feces naturally compresses the anal glands, and the gland fluid is expelled along with it. However, if the cat's food lacks sufficient fiber, the feces become loose and difficult to form. Overweight and sedentary cats are also more susceptible to anal gland disease, as are those with chronic diarrhea and muscle tension.
Signs of anal gland disease in cats
Owners may notice a series of symptoms in their feline companions. For instance, cats may run around frantically, lick and bite at their buttocks, or exhibit odd behaviors to alleviate the discomfort in the anal gland area, which is often accompanied by pain and itching. Of course, other causes may lead cats to rub or scratch at their anal glands to relieve pain and itching, such as inhaling foreign objects or having food allergies. Internal parasites, like tapeworms, and tumors can also be responsible. However, many cats naturally empty their anal glands through running and jumping activities.
When the anal glands are compressed, the natural emptying process is disrupted. In such cases, cats may resort to 'scooting' their bottoms to try to expel the contents with the help of external force. If this fails, they may become increasingly uncomfortable. They may start excessively licking and biting the affected area, which could lead to skin irritation if left untreated. Some cats may even chase and bite their own tails or become irritable due to the discomfort in the anal glands. If a cat frequently requires assistance to empty the anal glands, it's essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying diseases.
Diagnosis process
A veterinarian can diagnose anal gland disease by gently palpating the glands and feeling for any lumps. The vet may also gently insert a finger into the cat's rectum to check for any issues, feeling for small, hard nodules. If present, the vet will apply pressure to remove the pus from the anal glands. The pus is usually a thick, brownish, stringy substance. This process requires anesthesia or a large dose of sedatives due to the pain involved. If infection is suspected, the vet will send the extracted fluid to a laboratory for additional testing. The cat may also be prescribed a broadspectrum oral antibiotic.
Goals of treating anal gland disease in cats
The goal of treating anal gland disease is to clear out the mucus, debris, control and manage infections, and alleviate the cat's discomfort. It's also crucial to check for any risk of cancer. When the fluid in the anal glands accumulates for too long, it hardens, and the anal canal can be affected, potentially causing constipation due to the obstruction.
