What are anal sacs?
Anal sacs are small sacs located on either side of the rectum. They are not part of the rectum and they contain a fishy smelling substance. Before domestication, both dogs and cats had control to these sacs and used them to mark their territory. Now, pets no longer have active control of these sacs and sometimes they must be emptied in order to prevent infection. They are present in both males and females. Often, a dog will “scoot” on its behind, and indication that the sacs are full and need attention by a veterinarian. Cats generally tend to lick their rectal area excessively if their anal sacs are full.
