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Anal Glands
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This section is probably more than you ever wanted to know about Anal Glands!)
What Are The Anal Glands?
The anal glands (more properly termed the anal sacs) are two sac-like structures
located just under the skin near the anus in both cats and dogs. These sacs
periodically fill with a thick, foul smelling secretion known as anal gland
secretion (or anal sac secretion). Under normal circumstances a small amount of
this secretion (discharge) is expelled from the gland each time the pet
defecates (poops).
The main problems the anal glands can have are:
impaction;
infection and abcess;
rupture;
tumors.
Impaction, by far the most common problem is the "plugging-up" or "stopping-up" of the anal glands. Sometimes the outlet
(called the duct) of the anal gland becomes stopped-up and the gland fails to empty properly. This usually leads to discomfort (from the accumulating pressure) and will sometimes lead to infection.
Though the signs will vary from case to case, common signs of impaction are:
scooting on the rear end;
licking the region around the anal glands;
reluctance (sometimes) in defecating (often resembling true constipation);
discomfort (sometimes) when the area is touched.
Occasionally, a dog can have an impaction and not show us any of these signs. Also, these symptoms
(scooting, licking the rear area, etc.) can be signs of other problems on occasion too (such as worms, skin infection, stool. adhered to the fur, etc.) so it's important that we examine the patient to determine exactly what the problem is.
In uncomplicated cases, treatment for impaction usually consists of squeezing the glands to help them express. You should have your dog's anal glands expressed (or express them yourself) as often as needed. Some dogs never need the anal glands expressed while some need them expressed as frequently as every couple of weeks. On the average, dogs under 15 lbs need the anal glands expressed about every couple of months. It's a good idea to have your groomer express the anal glands along with routine grooming (or have us do it). |
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