How to Express a Cat's Anal Glands

Last Updated: October 31, 2022 Approved

A cat’s pea-sized anal glands are located beneath the anus, at about the four o’clock and eight o’clock positions. They release a cat’s distinct scent whenever the cat defecates, along with clear, oily secretions that range in color from yellow to brown. These secretions are normal (though they serve no purpose for domesticated cats), but cats with overly active anal glands can release a particularly malodorous scent and develop impactions and infections. If you think you may need to express your cat’s anal glands, talk to a veterinarian first.

Steps

1
Gather your materials. You’ll need a pair of clean surgical or examination gloves, gauze pads, clean water, and, if your cat is hairy, a clipper. You’ll also want someone to help hold the cat still while you work.
2
Position the cat. Have a partner or assistant hold the cat still, facing away from you.

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3
Trim the perineal area. If your cat is hairy, you may need to trim the hair around the anus before you can proceed.
4
Locate the gland openings. Pull the cat’s tail gently upward to observe the anus. Look for the gland openings, which should be located just beneath and to the sides of the anus.
5
Wipe away dried secretions. If the anus and gland openings are crusted with dried secretions, rinse with water and then gently wipe away the softened crusts.
- In some cases, you may not be able to wipe away the softened crusts very easily. If this happens, try putting a warm compress in the anus for five or ten minutes to soften clogged openings.
6
Pinch the anal glands gently. Using your gloved hand, pinch the two anal glands under the anus, using your forefinger and thumb. Gently push upwards, increasing your pressure until the glands pop and release excess secretions.
- You will likely notice a distinct odor once the glands release their secretions. This is a sign that you have succeeded in your task.
- If there is blood or pus in the discharge, your cat’s anal glands are probably infected. You’ll need to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
7
Wipe the area. Using a damp piece of gauze, wipe the anus and the surrounding area clean.

Expert Q&A
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Question

My cat's anus looks empty as if the hole isn't closing properly. Is this normal?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

If the cat needs to poop or has just pooped, sometimes the anal ring is a bit more relaxed and has an appearance similar to what you are describing. This should correct itself given time.

Warnings

If you notice blood or pus in the discharge, or if your cat’s anal glands are very swollen or painful to the touch, don’t try to treat the problem yourself: let the veterinarian handle it. These symptoms point to impaction and infection.

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