What are they?
Dogs and cats have two anal glands which are small glands (also called sacs) on either side of the anus just inside the rectum, at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions. They are filled with a powerfully scented material. Their purpose in dogs and cats is primarily for territorial marking and communication. Every time the dog or cat passes a stool, a small amount of secretion is pushed out from the anal glands, leaving its unique scent behind.
Often, however, the anal glands don’t empty as well or as frequently as they should and the secretions build up inside the glands until they are too full. This can lead to blocked or even abscessed glands.