Category — Dog Care

Ah…the anal gland. The vestigial harbinger of allergic ailment, the overly-manipulated emitter of stinkiness. We all dread its disease––pet owners and veterinarians in equal measure. No one likes dealing in their unsightly and malodorous expression.

In case you’ve never had the pleasure of handling an anal gland, let me properly inform you. In this post I will distinguish between the pervasive fictions applied to the structures and the biology of their existence, their raison d’être and the disgusting consequences of their disease.

Anal glands are two small, “grape”-shaped glands located just under the skin at four o’clock and eight o’clock to the anus. The fluidy, odoriferous material they normally produce is used by dogs, cats and other small mammals to lend a unique scent to their stool, thereby identifying it as their own. Butt-sniffing is, at least in part, a behavior that recognizes this special aroma as peculiar to an individual and worthy of special attention.

In domesticated animals, the anal gland no longer retains its lofty status as preeminent signpost of a territorial boundary to be respected by all neighbors. Canine and feline glands are considered vestigial, much like an appendix (the “cecum” in dogs and cats) or a dewclaw. They are essentially useless glands which, unfortunately, are rife with opportunities for offensive disaster.

The most common problem with anal glands occurs when inflammation of the perineum or anus itself allows for swelling at the site of their outflow. Thus frustrated, the gland’s indwelling material continues to accumulate, creating pressure within the structure and discomfort to the pet.

Most pets (usually dogs) will bite, scoot, twirl on their behinds or otherwise demonstrate dissatisfaction with the area. Some will simply be stinky in a gross, fishy sort of way. In these cases, a trip to the vet is often in order; to free the anal glands of the bulk of the material and to deal with the itchiness in the surrounding area. Allergies are a common underlying cause for this inflammation and its resulting itch.

It’s important to note that cats don’t usually engage in the same behavior. Many times, though the glands are full and uncomfortable, cats will continue to tolerate the situation. This may well be because the area is not itchy in their case……..

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Anal Sac Disorders

Dogs have anal sacs on either side of the anus which fill with fluid produced by the anal glands. This fluid is assumed to be a scent marker useful for delineating territory. Anal sac disorders involve impaction of anal sac fluid, inflammation of the sac(s), and abscess of the sac(s), which can lead to anal gland rupture. Impaction is the most common disorder of the anal glands. Small breed dogs like Miniature Poodles, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas are more predisposed than other breeds.

• Symptoms and Types
• Causes
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Living and Management

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