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Anal Glands (1): What On Earth Are They?
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Anal glands (also called anal “sacs”) are 2 small pouches or sacs located around the anus of most carnivores.
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The anal glands produce a strong smelling secretion which is deposited when the pet defecates. Most wild carnivores can empty these glands voluntarily for scent marking or in self defense, like a skunk might do.Unfortunately, our dogs and cats have largely lost their ability to empty these sacs voluntarily and defecation serves to empty the glands.
Some animals become unable to empty their glands on their own at all. The anal glands become impacted and uncomfortable.
Now let's take a look at those glands.
Their opening is located on the anal margin.
The left one on the 8 o'clock position.
The right one is on the 4 o'clock position
Following clipping of the area, a surgeon inserts a forceps into the left anal gland so that you can appreciate the depth of the structure.
