Anal gland infections in dogs

Anal gland infections in dogs can be a right pain in the behind – literally! While not a particularly pleasant subject matter, it’s important that pet parents know what’s normal and what’s not when it comes to their dog’s anal glands. That’s why we’re going to focus on what happens when they get infected and what treatment options are available. Read on to find out more!

How does an anal gland infection develop in dogs?

Blocked anal glands not only cause discomfort, but they can also become infected, known as sacculitis. The trapped fluid in the blocked gland provides an ideal environment for bacteria to reproduce. This stagnant fluid can lead to an anal gland infection, or in some cases a more serious abscess may form. If this occurs, pus will build up in the anal gland, causing severe pain and inflammation. When left untreated, the abscess could get so large that it ruptures, leaving a small open wound. Infection may affect one or both of the glands.

What are the warning signs your dog may have an anal gland infection or abscess?

What does anal gland infection look like in dogs? As well as showing some of the general signs of blocked anal glands like scooting, your pet may show more severe symptoms. These include –

• Swelling – your dog’s anus may appear swollen or inflamed. The skin overlying the affected gland may appear reddish-purple or pink in colour.
• Pain – Dogs with anal gland infections can be very painful. This can cause them to lick their rear end excessively, or snap or growl when you try to touch or look down there. Dogs may also struggle to sit down and get comfortable, or you may notice whining or crying.
• A visible wound – you may see a visible wound on, or very close to, your dog’s anus. Anal gland abscesses can rupture, causing bleeding and leakage of infected contents. This can leave a small hole or fistula behind.
• Reduced appetite – Your pet may be off their food and less keen to eat than normal.
  

If you think your dog has an anal gland infection or abscess, then contact your vet immediately for advice. Your pet will require treatment.

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How do you treat an infected dog’s anal glands?

Never try to treat an infected anal gland yourself at home. Attempting to squeeze the gland will cause your dog a lot of pain and could accidentally cause tissue damage.
 
That is why it is always best to give your vet a call. Depending on the findings of your vet’s physical examination, they may recommend the following:

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are necessary to clear the bacterial infection inside your dog’s anal glands. This may be in the form of oral tablets which you will need to give to your dog at home. You must complete the course as instructed to ensure the infection has cleared.
 
Alternatively, topical antibiotics may need to be applied directly into the affected anal gland. This is more commonly performed if your dog needs to be anaesthetised for anal gland flushing.
 
Your vet may suggest taking samples of your dog’s infected anal gland fluids to look at under the microscope or send to the laboratory for culture and sensitivity. This tells us more about the infection, and which antibiotic is most likely to be effective.

2. Pain relief

Anal gland infections and abscesses are painful. Pain relief is therefore an essential part of your dog’s treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are often used, as they help reduce inflammation and act as a pain killer. However, other types of pain relief may also be considered, depending on your pet.

3. Expression or flushing

Removing the infected material by manually expressing or flushing the anal glands is recommended. Your vet will gently squeeze the glands to milk any fluid out of them. However, this may not be possible at the first appointment, as most dogs find it too painful.
 
In some cases, your vet might suggest an anal gland flush. This can help to remove particularly thick or infected material. Your dog will usually be sedated or anaesthetised for this procedure. A small cannula is passed into the anal gland opening, and a sterile solution is used to help flush out any infected material. Your vet may also need to instil a topical treatment into the gland at this point, or they may send you home with oral medications. Discover 10 foods that help express your dog's anal glands naturally. 

4. Surgery

In recurrent cases, your vet may advise anal gland surgery. This operation will remove the anal glands, stopping problems from being able to occur again in the future. Your vet can discuss the risks and benefits of this procedure with you.

How do I prevent anal gland infections in dogs?

If your dog is prone to blocked anal glands, and at an increased risk of anal gland infections, then your vet may suggest –

• Regular checks and emptying – Regular manual expression will reduce the risk of infections developing, as well as keeping your dog comfortable. Read about how often you should express your dog's anal glands. 
• A change in diet or supplements – Increasing the fibre in your pet’s diet can help improve stool consistency, which may help their anal glands empty properly. Probiotics can also be needed to aid digestive issues. These types of supplements are frequently recommended by vets, or a change in diet may be advised.
• Investigation into loose stools – If your pet has long-term issues with their stools, this might need to be explored. Your dog could require blood samples, faecal samples and diagnostic imaging.
• Weight loss – Obesity can contribute to anal gland issues, so your vet may recommend weight loss. This will also help improve their overall health.
• Surgery – As mentioned earlier, surgical anal gland removal can help dogs with ongoing issues – discuss this with your vet.
  

Summary  

Anal gland infections need to be taken seriously. If you think your dog is affected, give your vet an urgent call for advice and treatment. This is not one to monitor or attempt to self-treat at home – it requires prescription medications to resolve.
 
Remember, the quicker your get your pet seen, the quicker they will be back to their usual happy self again!