Anal Sacs

Medical Condition:
Anal Sacs

Two sacs opening on either side of the anus near the junction of the mucous membrane and skin in carnivores. The glandular lining produces a gray or brown sebaceous secretion having an unpleasant odor. The sac ducts sometimes become occluded and the secretion accumulates. This leads to irritation that the animal attempts to relieve by rubbing its anus along the ground. The sacs may subsequently become infected and abscessed. (The Merck Veterinary Manual, 5th ed, p189)