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My cat chews her rear and cries after litter box. Is she in pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 years and 7 months old | 10 lbs

Hello, my cat seems to be have some behind troubles. She is 9 years old small mainecoon mix and I believe she may have an infection of some sort but I'm unsure. I can't afford to take her to the vet unless it is dire circumstances as I'm unemployed and rely on my spouse for income. She is often constantly chewing her behind or rubbing it against every surface, and it seems she is having a hard time keeping the area clean too. She often cries when she leaves the litter box too.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

Veterinarian

Published on August 30th, 2017

It looks like Karma may have an infection or dermatitis back there. It could also be due to an anal gland problem or even fleas. That can happen when they aren't able to groom themselves well. If she will let you I would try to help clean her back there as best you can with either just water or a gentle pet shampoo. If that does not help or you cannot safely clean her back end, you may need to take her to a vet. They will be able to clip and clean any wounds and she may need systemic antibiotics in order for it to heal.

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