Although it is disturbing to see your cat or dog dragging his butt across your carpet or floor as if he or she is wiping off fecal matter, this sometimes is not the actual truth from the action. There are several reasons for this common problem aside from just removing fecal matter, and it can be treated.
Is Dog or Cat Dragging Butt on Floor Because of Anal Glands
Anal glands secrete a strong smelling substance that is released during defecation. This is a method how your dog marks his territory. Sometimes the anal glands can become impacted causing inflammation, swelling, and discomfort. This situation can be relieved by expressing (squeezing) the glands either at home, groomer or at the vet. This is one reason your dog may drag his bottom. Other signs of this problem are chewing or licking in this area.
Reference: What To Do If You Bought A Sick Puppy
Dried Feces Cause Butt Dragging by Pet
A pet that suffers from diarrhea, in particular for a few days, can get dried feces in the hair on his back-end under the tail. Since pets do not “wipe” like humans, but rely on feces to come out cleanly, leaving nothing behind on his behind, runny stools will leave some matter behind. After a bit, this becomes itchy, and your pet may drag his behind on the grass or carpet. Check to see if this is the issue and clean gently with warm water and clip the offending hairs short. See your vet if diarrhea persists as this can lead to dehydration or your dog is farting a lot.
Worms Can Lead to Dog or Cat Dragging Butt on Floor
Sometimes worms and the itching they cause, are the culprit of your dog’s bottom dragging act. Tapeworms are one of the most common. Tapeworms are usually contracted by eating infected fleas. One sign is tiny white worm segments that look like rice in your dog’s fecal matter or around the anus. Worms are very easy to treat with medication from the vet. It is necessary at the same time to treat for fleas to prevent a reoccurrence.
Reference: Rare Dog Diseases You Need To Know About
Rectal Prolapse Can Affect Pet’s Butt
Sometimes, after a bout with diarrhea or constipation that causes repeated straining, a portion of the large intestine will protrude from the anus requiring immediate vet care to correct the issue. The vet may partially stitch a small part of the anus closed, recommend a soft diet or a stool softener to prevent reoccurrence. Sometimes the condition will require surgery.
External Exam
The most efficient way to attempt to locate the problem area is to do a rectal exam. While wearing gloves, lift the dog’s tail to visually assess the problem area. While holding the tail erect, look for any outward signs of anything unusual such as swelling, discharge, or growths. Feel around the anus for any areas protruding, swollen hard knots, discharge when pressing the area around the anus. Keep notes regarding any observations to share with your vet.
If you notice any wounds or drainage in this area, take note of what and how much. Thick, sticky discharge can indicate an infection. Wounds around the anus that have a green or yellow discharge and a strong odor can be infected and warrant immediate vet care, as well as any growths.
The issue of dragging the ground is embarrassing, but your dog cannot help this; it’s simply a discomfort relieving measure. With a little bit of investigation by you and your vet, your dog will be on his way to being discomfort-free.
See Also – 20 Household Items Than Can Kill Your Dog
