Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment of Inflamed Anal Glands in Dogs

Anal glands secrete scents so that dogs can mark their territory. Unfortunately, glands in the anus can become irritated. You will learn about the symptoms of anal gland swelling, the causes and the treatment.

Inflamed glands are more common in small dog breeds like Beagles or Maltese. It is important to take your dog to the vet immediately if the inflammation is very painful.

What is anal gland inflammation?

Anal glands secrete a scent-marking secretion. The anal glands absorb this secretion in the so-called “anal sacs” located on the left and the right side of the opening. Anal pouches are released to the exterior, especially when the dog feces.

However, the secretion can thicken or your dog might not be able defecate because of a blockage. The secretion can’t pass through the pouches and anal glands. Bacteria can then cause inflammation of the anal gland or sac in your dog. It is often accompanied by itchiness and pain in your dog.

Anal inflammation symptoms

Sledding is one of the common symptoms of anal inflammation. Due to the intense itching or pressure the dog feels, it will press its rear end down on the floor and move their paws with it.

If the disease progresses, your pet may try to reach its anal region using its tongue or bit its tail. You can identify the anus by its redness. If the disease is progressing, you may see abscesses or boils.

It is also possible to develop fistulas, which can be difficult for a layperson. If your dog has anal inflammation, the pain will be noticeable when he attempts to fecate. Whimpering and yelping are symptoms of painful, difficult defecation. Your four-legged pet may also move less or no longer want sit.

Possible causes of inflamed anal swollen glands in dogs

The inflammation of the glands is very painful for dogs. The disease can be caused by several factors. Anal gland inflammation usually occurs when the anal ducts become stuck or blocked. This can occur, for instance, when a dog has diarrhea.

A blockage or adhesion in the glands causes the secretion to become viscous. Bacteria can enter the gland and cause inflammation. Allergic reactions or excessive glandular activity can also cause inflammation.

Diagnosis – Does the dog’s anal gland have inflammation?

You should consult a veterinarian immediately if you notice symptoms that may indicate inflammation of the anal region. Anal gland inflammation may become chronic if not treated.

Your veterinarian will physically examine your pet, meaning that he’ll first check the affected area on the anus. It is most likely an anal inflammation if there is swelling or redness.

The veterinarian will palpate gently the area to see if the dog feels pain. The doctor may manually massage the glands in order to release the secretion. This is then further examined.

The doctor must rule out any other causes or diseases, including an allergy to saliva from fleas or foreign objects that have stuck to the anus. The doctor can only begin treatment once he is certain that the anal gland is inflamed and knows what caused it.

Anal inflammation can be severe in dogs

Anal gland inflammation can lead to serious complications, such as severe pain or fever. The severity of anal gland inflammation can be classified in different ways.

The dog’s anal sacs have a full volume and don’t empty when it feces. They are dilated.

The inflammation can be purulent or even bloody. The itching and defecation problems set in.

Fistulas or painful abscesses can form. At this stage, pain can be severe and fever may also be present.

Treatment of analgia in dogs

The veterinarian will usually begin the treatment of inflamed glands by gently massaging the secretion out of the anal sacs. This method is only effective if the secretion has not become hardened and is still liquid or viscous. The secretion will have to be soaked if it has already hardened. Abscesses may need to be cut.

The veterinarian will then flush the glands out with anti-inflammatory solutions after the secretion has been squeezed. Antibiotics may also be used, depending on the severity. This will help to combat the anal inflammation. This procedure is usually repeated several times more until the rash disappears completely.

An operation or removal of the sac may be possible if the inflammation is chronic, or if the fistula or ulcers are severe. Your veterinarian will give you detailed advice.

Can inflammation of anal glands by prevented?

You can massage his anal lymph glands and remove them at home if your dog is prone to inflammation. Consult your veterinarian first, as it is not an easy procedure and may not work for all dogs. Your veterinarian can show you exactly what to do, and how to maintain hygiene.