Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why does my kitten's butt suddenly smell horrible? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 5 days old

Cat has smelly butt area. It's 3 months old male kitten, I don't know which area it exactly is only that it's in the butt area. It happened 3 times suddenly while we were sitting or laying and relaxing or cuddling it starts to smell horribly suddenly and i would get him and wash his behind area with cat shampoo and it would stop smelling bad but the area he was sitting on like bed sheets would need to be washed since it smells bad even after 10 - 20 minutes. I clean his butt & paws after toilet.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2017

He could have a problem with his anal glands. They might be full and need to be expressed or he could have an infection. Have him examined by a vet to determine if his glands are causing the problem.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This sounds like Fluff may be expressing his anal glands. Cats have 2 small glands, one of each side of their anus, that will usually express when they have a bowel movement. Unfortunately sometimes they don't get expressed regularly and they will express when they are relaxed or scared. You can have your vet express them for you or you can look up a video of how to do it yourself if he will let you. The material could range from a light brown to dark brown in color - this is normal. I also recommend to add a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) of canned pumpkin to his diet to help increase his fiber. Sometimes this will help. If it isn't helping or the material you express is bloody or bright green, contact your vet to ensure his anal glands aren't infected or that there isn't something else happening. I hope this helps.

    Vote icon

    3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?
Is your pet ill, struggling to breathe, or showing stroke signs? A certified vet addresses syringe feeding worries, discusses causes, and outlines treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored