How often should cats' anal glands be cleaned? - briefly
Cats typically do not require routine anal gland cleaning unless they show signs of discomfort or issues such as scooting or excessive licking; consult a veterinarian if such symptoms arise.
How often should cats' anal glands be cleaned? - in detail
The frequency with which a cat’s anal glands need to be cleaned depends on the individual cat’s health, anatomy, and lifestyle. Most cats naturally express their anal glands during regular bowel movements, and routine cleaning is typically unnecessary. However, some cats may experience issues such as impaction, infection, or inflammation of the anal glands, which can lead to discomfort, scooting, or excessive licking of the area. In such cases, manual expression and cleaning by a veterinarian may be required. For cats prone to anal gland problems, cleaning may be needed every few weeks or as recommended by a veterinary professional. Over-cleaning can irritate the glands and should be avoided unless medically necessary. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor the health of a cat’s anal glands and determine if intervention is needed. Maintaining a high-fiber diet and ensuring proper hydration can also help support healthy anal gland function in cats.