Learning to observe what is normal and and what is not in animals that can't talk takes time and patience. The purpose of this FAQ is to serve as a basic guideline to know when to consult your vet to see if an examination is in order.
Questions about scooting are common. Anal sac problems are more common in dogs, but can occur in cats, too. Learn reasons why your pet may scoot in this FAQ.
Scooting is most commonly caused by anal sac inflammation or infection. Anal sacs are located on either side of the anus.
Anal sacs contain glandular cells that secrete a very smelly, oily substance that is normally expressed (squeezed out) when the animal defecates.
Sometimes the secretions can thicken or the animal gains weight and they don't get expressed properly. This can lead to impaction and ultimately infection. The condition can be irritating, itchy and extremely painful at various stages. A trip to the vet is warranted for examination and expression of these sacs.
Related article from the About.com Guide to Cats, Franny Syufy: How Do I Express my Cat's Anal Glands?.
Other reasons for scooting include: skin irritation from diarrhea, razor burn (if the area was recently clipped), a "hot spot", anal tumors that have become infected, or sometimes parasites.
In any case, a trip to the vet is warranted. Infections in this area can quite quickly become painful and cause your pet to avoid defecation, leading to secondary problems such as anal sac abscess/rupture or GI disturbances.
