Anal sacs (also called "anal glands") are two small glands just inside your pet's anus. The material secreted into these glands is thick and foul smelling. Most animals can empty these glands voluntarily for scent marking or in self defense (like a skunk might do).
Domestic animals have largely lost their ability to empty these sacs voluntarily. Walking around and normal defecation serves to empty the glands but some animals become unable to empty their glands on their own at all. The sacs become impacted and uncomfortable. Dogs with impacted anal sacs usually scoot their rear on the ground in an attempt to empty the glands. Some dogs will lick their anal area and other dogs will chase their tails. Cats often lick the fur off just under their tails.
WHAT HAPPENS IF AN IMPACTED SAC DOES NOT GET EMPTIED?
An abscess can form and rupture out through the skin. This is a painful, messy and pretty smelly condition often mistaken for rectal bleeding. If an anal sac abscess forms, it must be properly treated by your veterinarian. Antibiotics will be needed.
2 comments:
I'm sorry, but all the chihuahua / anal sac posts are way too much information. Find something else to talk about, eh? . . . :-)
I think that is common in petchi's breed. i read a few things about it. i have of course been worrying about that happening since i got her. She does have food allergies and possibly grass allergies... ahhh what have i become.
i am leaving for ny on tues. i am planning to go to china town for a little christmas shopping. if you know what you want i will pick it up. if i have to check a separate bag i will have to charge extra.
lmk.
b
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