Well first, you need to know exactly what it is that you’re dealing with. All dogs and cats have anal glands. They are two small glands, or sacs, that are located just below and on either side of the anus. When they are functioning normally, the glands secrete a strong smelling substance that is unique to each individual animal. In a healthy animal the feces presses against the gland and stimulates secretion. The problems start when the glands don’t express normally. When this happens the glands back up and can even become infected.

So, how can you tell if your pet is having problems with their anal glands? The most common sign is scooting. We all know this behavior. It is when a dog or cat raises up their tail and scoots their back end across the ground, usually on your carpet. This is an attempt to express the glands and relieve the pressure. You might also notice that your pet cries or whimpers while they are trying to defecate. If you see either of these behaviors, it is a sign that your pet is in some serious discomfort, and its time to get them some help.

One way to help them get relief is to express the anal glands manually. This is a simple procedure that can be done at your vet’s office, or even by you if you’re brave enough. What you need to do is press your thumb and pointer finger just to the outside of the anal glands. As you apply the pressure upwards and inwards you should see the fluid expressing itself out of the anal opening. If you find that your pet has a problem with irritated anal glands then this is a procedure that you should do regularly to help alleviate the pressure. If you have any questions on how to do this properly then just ask your vet, they will be happy to show you how. This combined with a high fiber diet can do quite a bit to prevent irritation.

Now for some pets these steps just aren’t enough, even when done regularly. For animals like this there are some great natural remedies out there on the market. One great option is PetAlive’s AnalGlandz. This product is wonderful for cleaning the anal area as well as reducing pain and helping to soften the harden material inside of the glands. The way it works is that you mix a small amount of the solution with warm water and then apply it directly to the anal area. Start with every day and then once anal function has returned to normal you can cut back to once or twice a week. If this sounds like something that your pet can benefit from you can order AnalGlandz from www.pethealthymeds.com.

Your pet’s anal glands are one of those things that you just hope know how to clean themselves. Unfortunately sometimes that is just not the case. If you feel that your pet is having problems with their anal glands, then try your hand at the remedies we have outlined here. That way your pet can finally find the relief they so desperately need.