If you've ever thought your pet smelled a bit 'fishy', you probably know what we are talking about. In this blog, we will discuss what anal glands are, what makes them stink, and when they need some extra attention.
What are anal glands?
The term anal glands refers to two small sacs located inside the anus. The anal glands hold a thick, oil substance that allows pets to mark their territory when they defecate. Unfortunately, the substance often has a very foul odor, often a fishy or metallic scent. Usually, the anal glands empty themselves naturally when pets have a bowel movement, but there may be times where your pet is unable to express the glands themselves and may require some assistance.
What happens if the glands aren't expressed?
If not regularly expressed, the fluid can build up in the anal glands, causing the sacs to become impacted, sometimes to the point that the sacs rupture. This is referred to as an anal gland abscess.
Signs that your pet's anal glands have ruptured include:
Blood or pus draining from the rectum
Swelling/ inflammation around the anus
A visible wound around the anus
While not a life-threatening emergency, you should contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect that your pet's anal glands have ruptured. Having an open wound in this area makes it easily susceptible to infection and requires prompt treatment to keep under control. In the event that a pet's anal glands rupture, the veterinarian will often sedate the pet to ease any discomfort while fully expressing the anal glands, flushing the wound, and packing it with antibacterial solution. Once fully cleaned, pets may be treated with a course of oral antibiotics to combat infection.
How will I know if my pets anal glands need to be expressed?
There are signs to watch out for that can help prevent anal glands getting full to the point of rupturing. Signs that a pets anal glands might be getting a bit full include:
Scooting on the floor or carpet
A fishy or metallic odor
Constantly licking or chewing around the anus
Fur matting around the anus
Swelling, redness, or hair loss around the anus
Reluctance to sit down
Constipation
Discharge around the anus
Pain vocalization (crying, whimpering)
What do I do if I notice these symptoms?
If you notice these symptoms, it is best to address the issue sooner rather than later. While not an emergency, we recommend making a plan to help your pet express their anal glands, which often involves a visit to the vet for a quick anal gland expression. A veterinary staff member can express the pet's anal glands, get your pet's behind cleaned up, and get your pet back to you in a matter of minutes.
Anal glands can also be expressed at home, but should only be done with express instruction from your veterinarian to make the process go smoothly and painlessly - for you and your pet! The process of expressing anal glands involves gloves, paper towels, and some petroleum jelly. Right inside the anus, there are two small sacs. When full, the sacs will feel larger and be easier to locate. When empty, it can be more difficult to locate them. Once you know where they are supposed to be, it becomes easier to identify when the anal glands are getting too full and might need to be expressed.
Once the sacs have been located, apply gentle pressure until you feel the sacs starting to express. This is normally accompanied by a brown liquid and strong odor, though more impacted anal gland expressions might appear more thick and chunky. If you have located the sac and it feels full but nothing is coming out, you may need to adjust your fingers slightly - do NOT continue to squeeze harder and harder until something comes out, as this may harm your pet. Instead slowly adjust your fingers until it starts to release. The substance comes out of a small duct which is sometimes occluded by our fingers.
We recommend holding a paper towel close to the anus to catch any liquid as it comes out, as getting the substance out of the fur can be difficult and can cause a lingering odor. However, have no fear - if you do get some on your pet's fur, you can easily remove the substance using some water and pet shampoo. For obvious reasons, we also recommend doing this outside.
Because of the up-close-and-personal nature of this procedure and the strong odors that go along with it, many prefer to leave it to the professionals. Give us a call at 972-347-6100 to schedule a quick appointment to address your pet's anal gland needs!
Pet accidentally expressed their anal glands on your clothes or furniture?
If your pet has leaked on your clothes, carpet, or furniture, act quickly to minimize any lingering odor. While if doesn't often stain clothes (thank goodness - imagine how quickly our staff would go through scrubs?!), we recommend getting your clothes into the wash quick. For carpets and furniture, you can use cleaner such as Nature's Miracle stain and odor spray.
If you have any questions or concerns please contact us at 972-347-6100.
Click here to schedule an appointment. https://connect.allydvm.com/practice/prosper_trail/appointment_request
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