Anal Sac Disease

The anal sacs are special structures located at the eight o’clock and the four o’clock positions just below the anus. These sacs are lined with special cells that secrete an odiferous liquid into the lumen of each sac, where it is stored. As feces pass out of the anus, these sacs are depleted of their stored material via small ducts located just below the anal opening. Some dogs and cats even have the skunklike ability to express these sacs on their own free will! No one knows quite for sure what the purpose of the anal sacs and their secretions is, but many suspect that they serve as a means of communication and identification between strangers!

Anal sac infections and irritation can occur if the material within the sacs isn’t emptied on a regular basis. Secretions that are allowed to remain within the sacs for long periods of time often become thick and gritty, making future anal sac emptying that much harder. Any inflammation of the skin caused by allergies, fleas, and other problems can lead to this problem. Changes in frequency or consistency of bowel movements caused by diarrhea, constipation, or dietary changes can also result in improper emptying of the sacs and secondary anal sac disease. Tapeworm segments are notorious for finding their way into the sacs and causing marked irritation. Small breeds of dogs under 15 pounds seem to have more problems with their anal sacs than do larger breeds because the sacs’ emptying ducts are smaller as well. Fortunately, cats rarely have problems associated with their anal sacs.

Dogs suffering from anal sac irritation often show obvious signs of discomfort, including constant licking in that region, and “scooting” their hind ends along the floor in an attempt to empty the sacs. In these instances, manual emptying of the sacs often leads to dramatic improvement in the pet’s overall disposition.

If one or more anal sacs become infected, actual pus or draining tracts might be observed around the affected region. These dogs are in a great deal of pain and will resist attempts at inspection. The amount of licking activity will also increase. Infected anal sacs need to be treated with topical antibiotics instilled directly into the affected sac(s) on a daily basis. In extensive cases, oral antibiotics might also be used to quicken the cure.

Anal sac problems can be prevented in a number of ways. Increasing the fiber and bulk content in the diet, and hence in the fecal material, will promote a thorough emptying of the sacs with each bowel movement. If a dog is showing early signs of problems, such as scooting, prompt evacuation of the sacs by a veterinarian can help prevent further progression of the problem.

Routine expression of healthy anal sacs is not advised, since, if done improperly, it could actually inflame these sacs and lead to impaction. Surgical removal of the anal sacs is certainly an option for those dogs that suffer miserably from this affliction. If infection is present, it must be cleared up before this type of surgery is performed.

Date: 2014-12-21; view: 1157