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my neutered male cat is expelling a discharge (very minimal) that has a strong odor-is this normal?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

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Hi,

Is the discharge from the anal area? If so, your cat may have full anal glands and needs to have them expressed (emptied) by the vet.

If your cat is acting normal in all other respects--eating/drinking/eliminating, playing as usual, the anal glands may be the problem. Is he licking at that area and/or 'scooting' across the floor at all? (scooting=sliding across the floor on his rear end with his back legs in the air and pulling himself along with his front legs)

Cher : )

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Reply to Jessesmom's Post: HI Cher,
Yes, the discharge is from the anal area but he is not scooting or licking the area. He is as playful as ever.....and his bowel movements are normal. It's just the odor (like an infection) that has me concerned.

Hi again, Amy.

Well, I think it really could be the anal glands--it's possible they could be infected, but the odor is unmistakable even if they're not! Really foul!

I'm really glad he's acting normally and is
playful! : )

The anal glands (or anal sacs) are located under the skin on either side of the anus. They secrete fluid during each bowel movement and occasionally can get infected or impacted (the fluid gets really thick, is not released during bowel movements and actually starts to harden). They may not be bothering him to any degree, but can still need to be expressed and are leaking a little bit because of that.

Your best bet is to take him to the vet and have this checked out. The vet will express the anal glands (it takes 2 seconds!) manually, and you should see a difference, immediately!

If you don't physically see any irritation, whitehead, red bump or anything of that sort on the skin of the anus itself, I'd bet the problem is the anal glands.

Please keep me posted on this? Thanks!

Cher : )

If my answer is helpful please click ACCEPT. Click reply for more info. Please talk to me before considering leaving neg. feedback; my only goal is to provide helpful answers. Thanks!

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