This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. 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.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
This article has been viewed 485,703 times.
Your cat’s anal glands (or sacs) normally empty on their own when your cat defecates, but if your cat has an underlying health condition that makes this difficult, you’ll need to help them express their glands. If your veterinarian has recommended you express your cat’s anal glands to relieve pressure and improve your cat’s health, you may want some help. Good news! We’ll make this easy—and we promise this isn’t as yucky as it might sound at first. In this article, we’ll walk you through this process so you can help your cat stay comfortable and happy.
Get a some disposable nitrile gloves, gauze pads, a bowl of water, some towels, and a trash bag. If your cat is hairy, get some clippers. Also, get someone to help hold the cat still while you work.[1]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source
Consult a veterinarian if you haven’t already. If your cat has an abscess or infection, doing this at home may make the problem worse. You should only express a cat’s anal glands if your vet has deemed it necessary.[2]XResearch source
Cats normally empty their anal glands on their own, so you shouldn’t need to do this unless there’s some medical condition impacting fluid buildup in the anal sacs.[3]XResearch source
Note: Cats with anal gland issues may drag (or "scoot") their bum across their floor. They might also give extra attention to their butt or tail (often through biting or licking); because of this, they may start losing fur around their tummy and the bottom of their tail. Kitties with anal gland issues might also be hesitant to poop.[4]XResearch source
If your cat is hairy, you may need to trim the hair around the anus before you can proceed. Simply grab a clipper or some scissors and carefully cut away any excess fur, mattes, or tangles.
You probably shouldn’t need to do this; the area around a cat’s anus is rarely going to be overwhelmed by fur.
Pull the cat’s tail gently upward to observe the anus. Look for the glands, which should be located just beneath and to the sides of the anus. They’re under skin and fur, but you should be able to feel the bulge of each gland.[5]XResearch source
If the anus and glands are crusted with dried secretions, rinse with water and then gently wipe away the softened crusts.[6]XResearch source
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.
Pinch the anal glands gently. Using your gloved hands, pinch the two anal glands under the anus, using your forefinger and thumb. Gently push upwards and towards the sphincter, increasing your pressure until the glands express themselves and release excess secretions.[7]XResearch source
Some very unpleasant fluid is going to come out. Keep tons of towels or paper towels on hand.
You will likely notice a distinct odor once the glands release their secretions. This is a sign you succeeded in your task.
If there is blood or pus in the discharge, your cat’s anal glands are probably infected. Contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Use a damp towel or gauze to wipe the anus and the surrounding area clean. Thoroughly clean any fur that might have gotten anal sac fluid on it.[8]XResearch source
This should not be a regular occurrence. If you express your cat’s anal glands and your furry friend starts exhibiting problems again, it’s time to see a vet. Potential signs that your cat is having more issues with their anal glands include:[9]XResearch source
Troubles using the bathroom and excessive soft stools.
Aggressive behavior when you try to touch your cat’s rear end.
Paying excessive attention to their rectum or licking their tail.
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.
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.
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If the anal glands are ruptured and bloody, try to stop the cat licking them excessively, and contact a vet immediately. Most cases can be treated with antibiotics, but severe or recurring cases may result in a recommendation of surgery.[11]XResearch source
This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. 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. This article has been viewed 485,703 times.
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 485,703 times.
Reader Success Stories
Denise Finneran
Dec 10, 2017
"I know now to take her to the vet. I think my darling kitty, Lucky, who is six years old, has anal glands that are bothering her. Cats hide pain. I read the article, examined her, and she showed signs of pain. Thank you for the straightforward article!"..." more
% of people told us that this article helped them.
Denise Finneran
Dec 10, 2017
"I know now to take her to the vet. I think my darling kitty, Lucky, who is six years old, has anal glands that are bothering her. Cats hide pain. I read the article, examined her, and she showed signs of pain. Thank you for the straightforward article!"..." more
Taru Tiwari
Dec 20, 2019
"I had been looking for this information, and this article is the best one that I have come across. This information has clear pictures and how to deal with the issue at home. It also provides sufficient information about when to reach out for a vet."..." more
Judy Stein
Mar 2, 2017
"I loved all the info on how to do this. I am alone and no one to help hold her still, that was the hardest part. Be sure not to ever pinch the glands too hard or that could rupture the anal sac, that was great advice!"..." more
Aria Kendell Kurrus
Jul 20, 2021
"My cat Spaghetti is 22 and he was having issues with his bowels, I did this to try and help him at the suggestion of his vet and found that he had an infection! So glad that it got cleared up."..." more
Kimberly K.
Dec 10, 2023
"After reading this, I determine I will make an appointment with my veterinarian for my kitty to get her anal glands checked out. I really appreciate all the details. Thank you."..." more
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Pippa Elliott, MRCVSDr. 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.
"I know now to take her to the vet. I think my darling kitty, Lucky, who is six years old, has anal glands that are bothering her. Cats hide pain. I read the article, examined her, and she showed signs of pain. Thank you for the straightforward article!"..." more
