Cats are often subtle when it comes to showing physical discomfort, which makes it easy to miss signs of underlying health problems. One common yet frequently overlooked issue is anal gland discomfort — a condition that can lead to significant pain if left untreated.
If your cat is displaying unusual behaviors like excessive licking, scooting, or avoiding the litter box, their anal glands may need attention. Understanding the signs of cat anal gland problems is important for timely intervention and keeping your cat comfortable.
Signs Your Cat May Need Anal Glands Expressed
Determining whether your cat needs their anal glands expressed requires close observation of their behavior and physical condition. Here are the most common signs to watch for.
Repeated licking of the anal area
All cats groom themselves, but the discomfort of anal gland inflammation or impaction will cause a cat to repeatedly interrupt their normal activities to lick the anal area. If you notice your cat licking this area more frequently or urgently than usual, it may indicate a problem with the anal glands.
Scooting
Scooting is a telltale sign that a cat is trying to relieve itching or pressure in the rectal area. The cat sits on the ground and pulls their body forward with their front paws, dragging their hindquarters along the floor. While scooting is more commonly associated with dogs, cats do it for the same reason — discomfort in the anal gland area.
Defecating outside the litter box
While litter box avoidance is most often related to the cat's objection to some aspect of the box itself, it can also indicate discomfort or constipation caused by anal gland inflammation. Impacted anal glands can narrow the anal cavity, making defecation painful and causing the cat to associate the litter box with that pain.
Foul odor or fishy smell
A healthy cat should not have noticeable unpleasant body odors. If you detect a strong, fishy smell from your cat — particularly from the rear end — this is a red flag that the anal glands may be full, leaking, or infected.
Redness or swelling around the anus
Visible inflammation or swelling around the anus is one of the more definitive signs of an anal gland problem. The anal glands are located on either side of the rectal opening — at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions. If you notice redness, puffiness, or swelling in these areas, the glands likely need veterinary attention.
What Are Cat Anal Glands?
Cat anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are two small glands located on either side of the anus. They produce a pungent, oily substance that is normally released in small amounts during bowel movements. Cats use this fluid for territory marking and communication with other animals.
In healthy cats, the anal glands empty naturally every time the cat defecates. The pressure of a firm stool passing through the rectum squeezes the glands and releases the fluid. When the glands are working properly, most cat owners never notice them at all. For a broader overview of anal gland anatomy and function in both dogs and cats, see our quick facts about anal glands.
Although cats are far less likely than dogs to have anal gland problems, it does happen. When the ducts from the glands become clogged, the fluid cannot be expressed normally during defecation. The glands become impacted, which can cause constipation and interfere with normal litter box usage.
When excessive bacteria build up in impacted glands, infection develops. This makes the entire area painful and itchy for the cat, and they may scoot and lick persistently in an attempt to find relief. Infections that go untreated can develop into an abscess — an acutely painful condition that requires prompt veterinary intervention. For more on how impaction progresses to infection and abscess, see our guide on anal gland issues in dogs and cats.
Treatment Options for Cat Anal Gland Problems
If your cat is showing signs of anal gland problems, start by consulting your veterinarian to determine whether antibiotics or pain relief are needed. Depending on the severity, your vet may also manually express the gland contents during the visit.
Here are the main treatment options available.
Manual expression
This is the most common treatment for full or impacted anal glands. A veterinarian or trained professional can manually express the glands to relieve pressure and discomfort. This should not be attempted at home without proper training, as incorrect technique can cause further injury.
Dietary changes and supplementation
Adding fiber to your cat's diet helps promote firm, regular bowel movements that put adequate pressure on the anal glands during defecation, supporting natural expression. High-fiber cat food or fiber supplements can be beneficial for cats prone to recurring issues.
For cats that need ongoing anal gland support, Glandex Powder can be added directly to food as a daily supplement. It combines fiber, digestive enzymes, and probiotics to promote healthy stool quality and support normal anal gland function. Glandex is formulated for both dogs and cats. For cats with more persistent issues, Glandex Advanced Vet Strength Powder provides a higher-potency option. Explore the full range in the Glandex collection.
Medications
If infection is present, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to treat the infection and reduce swelling. Pain medication may also be recommended to keep your cat comfortable during recovery.
Surgery
In severe cases where the glands repeatedly become impacted or infected despite other treatments, surgical removal of the anal glands may be recommended. This is typically a last resort when dietary changes, supplementation, and medical management have not been effective.
How Often Do Cats Need Anal Glands Expressed?
Many healthy cats never require manual anal gland expression at all. Their glands empty naturally during regular bowel movements without any intervention.
However, some cats — especially those prone to anal gland issues or those with certain underlying conditions — may need their glands expressed on a regular schedule. The frequency varies by individual cat and could range from every few months to more frequently, depending on the severity of the problem. Your veterinarian can help determine the right schedule for your cat based on their history and health needs.
For cats that are prone to recurring issues, daily supplementation with fiber and digestive support can help extend the time between manual expressions by promoting consistently firm stools that express the glands naturally.
When to See Your Veterinarian
Consult a veterinarian whenever you suspect your cat may be experiencing anal gland problems. Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat is in visible pain or discomfort, if there is swelling, redness, or bleeding around the anal area, if your cat has difficulty defecating or shows signs of constipation, if you notice a strong foul odor that could indicate infection, or if symptoms persist or worsen despite home care and dietary changes.
Early intervention can prevent minor anal gland issues from developing into serious conditions. Your vet can provide a proper diagnosis, recommend the best course of treatment, and advise on preventive care to keep your cat comfortable.
For more on anal gland health in both dogs and cats, see our quick facts about anal glands or visit our comprehensive resource on anal gland issues.
