Family Vet Limited
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
What is Anal Sac Removal?
Anal sac removal (sacculectomy) is a surgical procedure to remove one or both anal glands—small scent glands located on either side of the anus. It is recommended for pets with chronic infections, abscesses, ruptures, or suspected tumours that do not respond to medical treatment.
This procedure is typically done under general anaesthesia and offers a permanent solution to repeated anal gland issues.
Most pets naturally express their anal glands when passing stools. However, these glands can become problematic, leading to discomfort and infection.
Common Reasons for Surgery:
Frequent impactions or abscesses
Anal gland rupture or chronic infection
Pain or discomfort when passing stools
Tumour or abnormal growth in the gland
Some pets show signs such as scooting, licking the area, or swelling near the anus.
Your pet will receive a pre-anaesthetic assessment to ensure they’re safe for surgery. For senior pets (over 10 years, or over 7 years for large breeds), pre-anaesthetic bloodwork and IV fluids are mandatory. These tests help us evaluate your pet’s health and support safer anaesthesia.
Under general anaesthesia, the affected gland(s) are carefully removed with precise dissection to avoid surrounding nerves and tissue. Pain relief and antibiotics are given during the procedure.
Your pet will go home the same day in most cases. Pain relief, antibiotics, and an Elizabethan collar (cone) are provided to ensure a smooth recovery. Activity should be limited, and stools may be softened with diet or medication to prevent straining. A follow-up visit will be scheduled for a wound check and possible suture removal.
Anal sac removal is recommended for pets with chronic or severe anal gland disease.
Most pets recover well, but faecal incontinence is a rare potential complication.
Post-op care includes rest, pain relief, and prevention of licking or scooting.
Pre-anaesthetic bloodwork and IV fluids are mandatory for senior and high-risk pets.
If cancer is suspected, the removed gland can be sent for histopathology.
Would you like this webpage content also saved in , , or inserted into your EzyVet backend format?
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
