Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Cat straining, scooting, and red tissue when pooping. Is it anal glands?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat eats and has normal potty habits, she's straining. I've noticed there's this thin red lining visible everyone she defrecates. Nothing protrudes and it's not a spongy tissue like anal protrusion. I've also noticed she has "scooted" a few times. I have tried giving her laxantone but it doesn't seem to help much. What can it be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2017

Your kitty may be suffering from impacted or infected anal sacs. She could also have intestinal parasites or other intestinal problems. I strongly suggest you take her to your vet. Anal sac infections are very painful, yet easily resolved. The vet will examine her and check the anal sacs, whether they are filled, impacted and what the content is like. If they are just impacted, they will be emptied, and you may have to add some dietary supplement such as canned pumpkin. If they are infected, your kitty will need antibiotics. If the anal sacs appear healthy, your veterinarian will have to investigate further.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Bobbi Musgrove, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Your kitty may be struggling with anal gland impaction/swelling or could have an infection in her anal glands. It is also possible for food allergies to cause some swelling of the rectal tissue and cause the straining and tissue you see. I recommend having examined and a rectal exam performed. If it is just simple anal gland swelling or they are too full, then can expressed by a veterinarian or technician and this should help significantly. Sometimes we recommend adding more fiber to a kitties diet if we do confirm issues with them being able to express their anal glands on their own. If her anal gland are normal, then you can discuss a possible diet trial for potential food allergies with your veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored