English Español Deutsch Français 日本語

Why is the cat's anus red?

Pet Knowledge
This article is provided by Veterinarian Dr. Daniel Miller
Red anus in cats may be caused by increased defecation frequency, functional indigestion, parasitic infection, perianal inflammation, anal adenitis, anal polyps, etc. First of all, if it is simply caused by an increase in the frequency of defecation, then the redness of the anal skin is a normal physiological phenomenon, and the owner generally does not need to worry too much. Secondly, if the body is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, loss of appetite, perianal skin itching, pain, etc., then anal redness is an abnormal phenomenon and needs to be treated with drugs, surgery, etc. If necessary, the cat needs to be taken to a regular Hospital visit.

1. Increased frequency of defecation

If the frequency of defecation is relatively high, it will repeatedly irritate the anal skin, causing redness without pain or itching, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. After the cat defecates, you can use wet wipes to wipe it, which can relieve local skin discomfort.

2. Functional indigestion

Usually caused by long-term overeating, it will increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, affect appetite, and also cause hardened feces, which may occur when the feces is excreted. It will damage surrounding skin and cause redness and swelling. You need to take medication to promote digestion as directed by your doctor.

3. Parasitic infection

If the intestinal tract is infected by parasites, diarrhea will occur. In severe cases, it may lead to partial anal prolapse and redness of the anus. You can take internal anthelmintic drugs specially designed for pets under the guidance of a doctor.

4. Perianalitis

It is inflammation that occurs in the perianal area. It may be caused by feces and other secretions irritating the local skin. The perianal skin will become red, swollen, and Symptoms such as itching and pain may be accompanied by exudation in severe cases. You need to take antibiotics as directed by your doctor.

5. Anal adenitis

When the cat’s anal glands secrete too much fluid and cannot discharge it, and the anus is blocked, it will lead to anal adenitis; if you see the cat appear in Symptoms such as rubbing the buttocks on the ground, redness, swelling, and pus in the anus require surgical debridement and medication; and the cat cannot continue to rub the anus or lick the wound, and needs to wear an Elizabethan collar.

6. Anal polyps

It is a tumor that occurs in the anus. It is considered to be caused by chronic inflammatory stimulation and genetics. The symptoms include blood in the stool, tenesmus, anal pain, etc. In severe cases, it may Can cause skin breakdown and cause redness. Need a doctor'sPolypectomy treatment is performed under operation.

During treatment, local skin cleaning and hygiene need to be done. You can rinse with running water to prevent bacterial invasion, reduce the chance of suppuration, and help with recovery.