Anal Gland Disease in Cats
Anal gland issues can cause discomfort, swelling, and infections in cats. Early detection and proper treatment are key to keeping your cat comfortable and pain-free.
What is Anal Gland Disease in Cats?
Cats have two small anal glands near their rectum that produce a scent-marking fluid. When these glands don’t empty properly, they can become impacted, infected, or abscessed, leading to pain and discomfort.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we diagnose and treat anal gland issues in cats, ensuring they get fast relief and expert care.
Signs Your Cat May Have Anal Gland Problems
🐾 Scooting or dragging their bottom on the floor
🐾 Excessive licking or biting at their rear
🐾 A strong, fishy odour
🐾 Swelling or redness near the anus
🐾 Difficulty defecating or signs of pain when passing stools
🐾 Hiding, irritability, or changes in behaviour
If your cat is showing any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to prevent infection and further complications.
Common Causes of Anal Gland Disease in Cats
Anal gland issues occur when the glands don’t empty naturally, leading to discomfort and infections. Some common causes include:
🐾 Impaction – The fluid inside the glands thickens, blocking natural emptying
🐾 Infection or Abscess – Bacteria can enter the glands, leading to painful swelling and pus formation
🐾 Diarrhoea or Soft Stools – Loose stools don’t provide enough pressure to empty the glands naturally
🐾 Obesity – Overweight cats may struggle to naturally express their glands
🐾 Food Allergies – Can contribute to chronic inflammation in the glands
When to See a Vet
Anal gland problems can be extremely uncomfortable for cats and should be treated as soon as possible. Seek veterinary care if:
🐾 Your cat is scooting excessively or licking their rear persistently
🐾 There is visible swelling, pus, or bleeding near the anus
🐾 Your cat has difficulty passing stools or shows pain when using the litter box
🐾 A strong odour is present, even after cleaning
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional anal gland expression and treatment to relieve your cat’s discomfort.
Professional Treatment for Anal Gland Disease at My Corner Vet
We provide thorough, compassionate treatment tailored to your cat’s needs, including:
Full Examination
Checking for impaction, infection, or underlying issues
Manual Expression
Safely emptying the glands to relieve discomfort
Dietary Advice
High-fibre diets to promote natural gland expression
Medication for Infections
Antibiotics and pain relief if necessary
How to Help Prevent Anal Gland Issues in Cats
🐾 Feeding a high-fibre diet to promote firm stools and natural gland emptying
🐾 Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of impaction
🐾 Routine vet check-ups to catch any issues early
🐾 Seeking early intervention if you notice scooting or excessive licking
While some cats are prone to anal gland problems, you can help reduce the risk by:
For cats with chronic anal gland problems, regular vet visits for manual expression may be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Scooting can be a sign of full or infected anal glands that need to be checked by a vet.
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Most cats never need manual expression, but some may require it periodically if they have chronic issues.
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Yes! A high-fibre diet helps create firm stools that naturally express the glands.
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Untreated problems can lead to infections, abscesses, or even rupture, requiring more intensive treatment.
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Yes, food sensitivities can cause chronic inflammation, contributing to recurring anal gland problems.
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Book an Appointment at My Corner Vet
🐾 Expert care for anal gland issues in Perth
🐾 Same-day appointments available
🐾 A caring, professional team
📍 Clinic Location: 134 Broadway, Nedlands, WA
📞 Call Us: (08) 6285 8535
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Don’t let your cat suffer in silence—schedule a check-up today for expert treatment and relief. 🐶✨
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