Why Do Dogs Anal Glands Smell
If you’ve ever received foul-smelling fluid from your pet’s back end, you may have experienced anal inflammation. Anal discharge, which usually has a strong smell compared to a fishy odor, creates an unforgettable odor that is difficult to remove from your clothes, furniture, or nostrils. While you wish your furry friend didn’t have these glands, they have a purpose in the animal kingdom. Read on to discover why dogs and cats have anal glands and how to spot common problems with these stinky bags.
What is the function of the anal glands in animals?
Contents
The anal glands are located between the internal and external anal sphincters, located on opposite sides of the anus. Normally, the anal glands contain a thin, brown liquid that is released naturally during defecation, which coats the stool. If the anal gland is affected for any reason, the thin discharge will thicken, turning into a thick, pasty, brown, hard-to-describe discharge. released, allowing pets to mark their territory in a way other than urinating. Pets also expel anal secretions when frightened, which may be an involuntary action due to sphincter spasm. Sometimes, some pets need to express their anal glands manually. Dachshunds and other small breed dogs seem to need the most help to empty their anal glands, although any pet, including cats, may need help.
What are the signs of anal gland problems in pets?
Read more: why is my life sad | Q&A common problems with the anal glands include compression, infection, or cancer. Overweight pets have poor muscle tone and are often unable to fully expose the anal glands during defecation, which can lead to bacterial overgrowth, infection, and inflammation. Pets with seasonal allergies or year-round inflammation can also suffer from anal gland problems.
- Along the carpet or grass
- Lick, bite or chew in the anal area
- Painful defecation
- Difficulty defecating
- Abnormally shaped stools
- Fishy smell from top to back
Pets with an anal laceration may also have blood in their stools, and defecation can be extremely painful.
How are anal gland problems in pets treated?
If your hairy friend develops an affected anal gland, the affected gland should be gently squeezed, by hand, to avoid rupture. Infected anal glands need to be cleaned with an antiseptic followed by topical and systemic antibiotics to fight the infection. If you have an anal abscess, applying heat every 8 to 12 hours for 15 to 20 minutes can help heal. Weekly anal lavage may also be needed, combined with an infusion of antibiotic and steroid ointments. Laser therapy sessions can speed healing and reduce inflammation associated with anal gland infections, incisions, or abscesses. Read more: why do cats turn their backs | Top Q&A However, if medical treatment is not effective or the tumor is obstructing the anal gland, surgical removal of the affected gland is indicated. This surgery can cause a number of complications after recovery, including chronic fistula formation, scar formation, or fecal incontinence. In cases of infection or compression, surgery is usually a last resort, while the presence of a tumor requires immediate surgical removal.
How can I prevent anal gland problems in my pet?
You can help prevent anal gland problems in your pet in a number of ways.
- Weight Control – One of the best ways to prevent anal gland problems is to help your pet maintain a healthy weight. Overweight and obese animals struggle to spontaneously expose anal glands due to lack of muscle tone and adipose tissue blocking anal ducts. By keeping your four-legged friend slim and lean, their body can function better.
- Allergy relief—If your pet has allergies, whether they’re caused by seasonal triggers or year-round allergens, managing allergic inflammation can help minimize problems about the anal gland.
- Diet Management – Adding extra fiber to your pet’s diet can cause their poop to build up, allowing the anal glands to be compressed and for better detoxification. Be careful not to add too much fiber, because too much fiber can cause constipation.
If your furry friend is suffering from a coat problem, you may not want to wait until the family vet opens the door. The anal glands can quickly rupture if they are impacted, requiring immediate veterinary care. Call us at the Pet Emergency Clinic and Referral Center if you notice your pet is trying to soothe by picking, licking, and chewing on their back end. Read more: why is my dog acting weird | Top Q&A
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