Anal glands are scent glands situated either side of the dogs or cats anus, which should empty every time the bowel is emptied to leave marker to sniff at. In some cases, these glands do not empty as they should. With time the secretion become thicker, more granular and less likely to empty. This will lead to blockage, impaction, inflammation and possibly infection, which will result in abscess that may burst. Anal gland disease is not common in cats but can be seen occasionally.

Symptoms vary but can include;

• The patient will lick the anus or lick the carpet and floors. The breath may smell fishy.
• Pricking sensation leaping up darting across the room, sitting down suddenly.
• Scooting – dragging the anus along the floor.
• Chewing anywhere towards the rear end – this can be on target or anywhere in the groin down the legs or even occasionally a front foot out of shear frustration.
• Nibbling at the paws and ear infection.

The more this occurs the more severe the condition becomes and more likely to reoccur. Once scared, infected and damaged the surgery may be more difficult and little more risky. Periodic emptying will not alter the progression of the problem. In most cases the glands are full again within a week or so. The glands may block at any time, a week or so after emptying or many months. To maintain them safely by routine emptying would require attention every 2-3 weeks!  Pro-biotics and diet higher in fibre may help and at times eliminate the problem. When a recurrent problem can be recognised, surgery mostly offer far better option and is sorted once and for all. Surgery nowadays is generally very routine and straightforward, provided it is carried before severe damaged had occurred.

Frequently after removal owners see a change in the dog’s general demeanour and only then realise how much distress was felt by the dog but unseen. The decision as to whether and when to operate must be based on close observation of the patient’s behaviour at home; the Veterinary surgeon can have an opinion but only based on the owners description and the frequency and severity of symptoms. Generally far more is happening at home, and vets see only the tip of the iceberg. It should always be remembered that although modern anaesthetics and high quality nursing and veterinary supervision have reduced anaesthetic risk to a minimum. No anaesthetics should be undertaken albeit small of complications. These possible risks may be much lower with early intervention but do exist.