Pet parents want the best lives possible for their fur babies, and seeing a pet in distress or discomfort can be difficult. When your dog or cat is having issues going to the bathroom, they may not be able to express what they’re feeling in words, but they’ll often give you signs.
An anal gland impaction, infection, or abscess can result in your pet having difficulty secreting a gland substance that used to be an important lifestyle as it acts as a territorial marker for dogs. The scent that anal gland secrets also reveals important information about a dog or cat’s hormonal status. They can also express their glands as a response of fear. Domesticated dogs and cats are at a higher risk of needing help expressing their glands, and surgery is sometimes the best choice.
If your dog or cat is itching their anus or seems uncomfortable when relieving themself, call us at VetNaturally. As one of the most trusted veterinarians in the Mandeville area, we offer a procedure called anal sacculectomy to relieve discomfort associated with impacted anal glands.
What Is an Anal Sacculectomy?
Impacted anal glands are the result of the glands gradually filling up and not having the opportunity to become empty. This can lead to an abscess forming. An anal sacculectomy, also called anal sac removal, is the removal of the anal glands, which are situated near the dog’s anus.
Anal sacculectomy cost can vary based on how difficult the removal process is and whether your pet needs an extended hospital stay. On average, the price ranges from $750 to $2,500.
Why Do Dogs and Cats Need An Anal Sacculectomy?
Sometimes, dog and cat anatomy and behavior are a mystery to pet parents, including the rituals around going number two.
Dogs are territorial creatures, and their urine and feces can be used as a scent to “mark” their territories. The anal glands help with this animalistic behavior when the muscles around the anal glands contract during defecation. This, in turn, puts pressure on the anal sac, allowing a darkly colored, scented substance to release with the feces.
When impaction occurs, dogs are unable to secrete the substance, and veterinary aid may be required. There are other medical interventions besides surgery, though surgery to remove the anal sacs may be required in some instances.
Both dogs and cats can use these scents to ward off predators. Because domestication has drastically reduced this need, this gland can often go underutilized, further leading to impaction.
Does Your Dog or Cat Need an Anal Gland Sacculectomy?
While overweight pets or those with gastrointestinal disease are at a higher risk of needing an anal sacculectomy, you will likely notice some clear signs that something is may not be right with your dog or cat’s anal glands:
- Scooting the butt along the floor or ground
- Licking and biting near the anus
- Growling, snapping, or hissing when you attempt to touch your pet in that area
- Blood or puss around the rectum
- Foul odors emanating from your pet’s rear end
- Difficulty sitting comfortably
Routine anal gland expression (emptying the sacs) can also help your pup from developing anal gland impaction. It’s important to note that if anal gland expression is not done properly, it can actually lead to problems with your dog’s anal gland. For this reason, it’s recommended that only a licensed vet or trained technician perform this procedure.
How Long Will It Take for My Dog To Recover From an Anal Sacculectomy?
Anal sacculectomy dog recovery typically includes pain management and antibiotics to prevent infection. There could be a period of constipation for a few days, but you should expect your pet to have a movement within three to four days post-surgery.
Complications are rare, but any surgery has associated risks. There is a remote possibility that your dog could experience incontinence after the surgery, which is more common in smaller breeds. Incontinence can also occur if there was any nerve damage during the surgery, though most pets will recover. Other post op complications can include inflammation, excess drainage, and or acute seroma formation, though these are unlikely to occur.
Choose the Experienced Team at VetNaturally in Mandeville, LA, for Your Pet’s Health Needs
Anal sacculectomy in dogs and cats may be recommended when recurring issues are not resolved with anal gland expression or changes in diet and lifestyle. At VetNaturally, we are dedicated to helping your pets stay healthy and happy.
Contact us at (985) 718-9991 to schedule an appointment.
