Anal glands in dogs and cats: function, problems, and what to do
Many dog and cat owners are familiar with it: the notorious "scooting" (dragging the bottom across the ground), excessive licking of the anus, or a sudden foul odor. This is usually caused by problems with the anal glands (anal sacs). Below, you can read about what is happening exactly and how nutrition can play an important role in the solution.
What do anal glands actually do?
Anal glands are two small sacs on either side of the anus. They produce a strong-smelling, fatty fluid that serves as a "scent flag" for territory and communication with other animals. Normally, these glands are automatically emptied during defecation as a firm, compact stool exerts sufficient pressure on them.The anal glands produce a strong-smelling fluid. This scent plays a role in:
- communication between dogs and between cats
- recognition
- territory marking
Why do problems with anal glands occur?
Problems occur when the anal glands are not emptied properly. This happens, for example, with:
- stool that is too soft or inconsistent
- chronic intestinal problems
- overweight
- an abnormal position of the anal glands
- some dogs do not take the time to relieve themselves properly, meaning the anal glands are insufficiently emptied
Although overly soft stool is the most common culprit, the other mentioned factors are also proven causes for the improper emptying of the anal glands.
- The problem with the anal glands usually arises when the stool is too soft or too loose. There is then insufficient pressure, causing the fluid to accumulate, thicken, and become blocked. This leads to irritation, itching, pain, and sometimes even inflammation or an abscess, causing the dog to "scoot." Although more common in dogs, cats can also suffer from this.
- Chronic intestinal problems: Conditions such as IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) or food allergies not only cause inconsistent stool, but also cause local swelling and irritation in the intestinal wall and around the anus. This can directly block the narrow discharge ducts of the glands. In these cases, we recommend choosing food that causes as few (allergic) reactions as possible. For both dogs and cats, we advise hypoallergenic or grain- and gluten-free food and probiotics to support intestinal issues.
- Overweight: Dogs and cats with obesity have extra fatty tissue around the anus. This fat absorbs the mechanical pressure of the stool, making the glands less effectively emptied. For overweight dogs, we recommend Weight Control and Bio Chicken food, and for cats, Control food.
- Abnormal position of the anal glands: Sometimes the glands are anatomically positioned too deep or at the wrong angle. Even with a perfectly firm stool, the faeces may not exert the right pressure to push the fluid out.
- Hasty defecation (behavior): When a dog is stressed, easily distracted, or hurried by its owner, it does not contract the sphincter correctly or long enough. This disrupts the entire physiological process of emptying the glands.
Additional causes
- Stool that is too hard: In cases of extreme constipation, the anus can cramp so tightly that the openings of the anal glands are clamped shut.
- Too frequent preventative manual emptying: Having the glands squeezed unnecessarily by, for example, a groomer, actually stimulates extra fluid production and can cause scar tissue.
DID YOU KNOW: In Dutch veterinary practices, 5% of dogs visiting the clinic have a problem with their anal glands. Research now shows that of the dogs with anal gland problems, 60% were fed an all-meat diet. All-meat means only meat as food and therefore no crude fiber.
Persistent complaints
Given the symptoms mentioned above, the veterinarian will examine the anal glands, including their contents, and check for fleas or flea allergies, as these cause similar complaints. If necessary, the anal glands are emptied immediately by the vet.When there is a severe infection or an abscess, the veterinarian must open the anal glands and flush them thoroughly. Because this can be very painful, it is often done under mild sedation. Afterward, your pet will be given a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories to take home.
If the complaints keep returning quickly despite these treatments, surgical removal of the anal glands can be a permanent solution. Because this surgical procedure takes place close to the sphincter, there is a very small risk (less than 5%) that the animal may not be able to control its bowel movements properly after the surgery.Nutrition as a natural solution
Fortunately, you can prevent or reduce many problems with the right nutrition. Three important options are extra fiber, probiotics, and kaolinite.1. More fiber for natural emptying
Fiber absorbs moisture in the intestines and creates larger, firmer stool. This provides exactly the pressure needed to properly squeeze the anal glands empty. A good option is fiber-rich food. For dogs, we recommend our Weight Control and Bio Chicken due to a high crude fiber content of 10% and 7%. Both foods also contain beet pulp. Beet pulp contains a balanced mix of soluble, fermentable fiber (mainly pectin) and insoluble fiber. For cats, we recommend Control cat and Sensitive cat. One can also add extra psyllium fiber (psyllium husk). Psyllium fiber is also present in our anti-hairball tablets for cats and probiotic tablets for dogs and cats. This is often a simple and effective solution.
2. Probiotics for a healthy gut flora
Probiotics balance the intestinal bacteria, making the stool more consistent and reducing chronic soft stool. Furthermore, they strengthen the immune system, which helps to fight off infections in the anal sacs more quickly. The combination of fiber and probiotics often works best. There are special supplements that contain both, such as our unique BF®Probiotics tablets which are suitable for cats and dogs.
3. Natural 3-in-1 biscuits with kaolinite
Because anal gland problems are often caused by stool that is too soft (resulting in the glands not being emptied sufficiently), a firmer stool can indirectly help. Firmer stool means better natural emptying of the anal glands. The 3-in-1 Grass & Poop biscuits for dogs contain, among other things, kaolinite (a natural clay) and other functional ingredients. Kaolinite has several beneficial properties:
Because anal gland problems are often caused by stool that is too soft (resulting in the glands not being emptied sufficiently), a firmer stool can indirectly help. Firmer stool means better natural emptying of the anal glands. The 3-in-1 Grass & Poop biscuits for dogs contain, among other things, kaolinite (a natural clay) and other functional ingredients. Kaolinite has several beneficial properties:
- It binds excess moisture and toxins in the intestines.
- It helps make the stool firmer and more consistent.
- It supports normal digestion and can reduce grass- and poop-eating behavior.
TIP: The 3-in-1 Grass & Poop biscuits with kaolinite are also useful for traveling (vacations or outings). These support digestion, help keep the stomach settled during travel, and ensure firm stool for your dog during vacation stress.
When to visit the vet?
- Frequent scooting or licking
- Foul odor or swelling near the anus
- Blood or pus
- Changed behavior (pain during defecation)
In summary
Blocked anal glands and anal gland inflammation in dogs and cats are unpleasant, but often easy to prevent with the right approach. Firm stool, healthy intestinal flora, and targeted support form the foundation. In case of recurring problems, it is wise to have the glands checked and, if necessary, expressed. Nutrition alone does not always solve everything, but it often provides excellent support and prevention.For more information, email: info@bfpetfood.nl or use the contact page.
