How to Express Your Cat's Anal Glands
Expressing your cat’s anal glands may become a routine part of their care—especially if your veterinarian has recommended regular expression. While it’s possible to learn how to do this safely at home (provided your cat is calm and cooperative), many pet owners choose to leave the task to professionals. Either way, understanding when and why it’s needed helps keep your cat comfortable and healthy.
How to Tell If Your Cat Needs Their Glands Expressed
Cats naturally release a small amount of fluid from their anal glands during bowel movements—a behavior that helps with scent marking and territorial communication. But sometimes, the ducts become blocked or inflamed, leading to impaction. Signs your cat may need assistance include:
- Dragging or “scooting” their rear across the floor
- Excessive licking or biting near the base of the tail
- Visible swelling or redness around the anus
- Foul-smelling discharge or leakage
- Reluctance to sit or signs of pain when touched near the tail
If you notice any of these symptoms—or especially if your cat seems uncomfortable—it’s best to consult a veterinarian first. Chronic or untreated impactions can lead to infection, abscesses, or even rupture.
What You Need
Before attempting expression, gather these supplies:
- Clean, disposable gloves
- Several clean paper towels or gauze pads
- A mild antiseptic wipe (pet-safe, non-irritating)
- A warm, damp washcloth for cleanup
- A helper (highly recommended—see below)
Get a Helping Hand
This step is crucial: enlist someone to gently but firmly hold your cat while keeping them calm and still. A second person can also help distract your cat with gentle petting or soft talking. Never attempt expression alone if your cat is anxious or uncooperative—stress can worsen discomfort and increase the risk of injury.
Locate the Anal Glands
The anal glands sit just inside the anus at approximately the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions (like the hands on a clock face). They’re about the size of small peas and feel like tiny, firm bumps under the skin. To locate them, gently lift your cat’s tail and use your gloved thumb and forefinger to palpate the area just outside the anal opening.
Press Gently
Once you’ve located the glands, apply gentle, inward-and-upward pressure with your thumb and forefinger—similar to squeezing a tiny pea between two fingers. You should see a small amount of thin, brownish fluid emerge. Do not force or squeeze aggressively. If nothing comes out after light pressure, stop and contact your veterinarian.
Repeat the motion on the opposite side. Some cats may release fluid more readily than others—and some may not need manual expression at all.
Clean Up
Wipe away any discharge with a paper towel or gauze pad, then gently clean the area with a warm, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol-based products, which can irritate sensitive tissue. Dispose of all used materials and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Preventing Problems
While occasional expression may be necessary for some cats, frequent issues often point to an underlying cause. Consider these proactive steps:
- Dietary support: Ask your vet about adding fiber (such as pumpkin puree or a veterinary-approved supplement) to promote firmer stools, which naturally stimulate gland expression.
- Weight management: Overweight cats are more prone to gland issues due to reduced muscle tone and less efficient natural expression.
- Regular vet checkups: Include anal gland assessment during routine wellness exams—especially for senior cats or those with a history of impaction.
- Professional grooming: Some FurPetVo-certified groomers offer safe, gentle expression services as part of preventive care packages available through furpetvo.com.
Remember: There’s no shame in choosing professional help. At FurPetVo, we believe in empowering pet parents with knowledge—not pressure. When in doubt, always defer to your veterinarian’s guidance. Healthy, happy cats start with compassionate, informed care.
