Anal glands are the two small scent glands located inside your dog or cat’s rectum and are generally harmless. In healthy pets, these glands empty naturally during your pet’s bowel movement.
But some pet’s glands can become blocked, infected, or impacted, which leads to pain, swelling, irritation, and a visit to your veterinarian.
This can be a pain in the butt for all involved (pun intended).
There are some general signs you will see if your pet is having anal gland troubles, including:
- Scooting — dragging their rear end across the floor
- Excessive licking or chewing around the tail or rear
- A strong, unpleasant odor coming from the backside
- Swelling or redness near the anus
- Sudden sensitivity when you touch near their tail
Seeking out veterinary care, like at one of our 8 urgent care hospitals for pets in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, to safely express the glands is the best first step if this is a recurring issue. A veterinarian can treat any infection as a result of the anal gland issue and investigate any underlying causes such as allergies, diet, or gastrointestinal issues.
Being aware of the signs will go a long way towards keeping your pet healthy and out of the hospital. Anal gland issues are uncomfortable for your pet and can lead to serious problems if ignored. If you notice scooting, licking, or swelling, don’t wait — schedule a visit with a veterinarian right away. Your pet will thank you for the quick relief and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve prevented a bigger problem down the road.
Veterinary Urgent Care Center has 8 locations across Massachusetts and Rhode Island and we are available 7 days a week. Book online or view our hours before you walk-in, for Braintree, Dedham, East Providence, Easton, Narragansett, Plymouth, Saugus, and Worcester, at veturgentcare.com.
