Domestic animals have largely lost their ability to empty these sacs voluntarily. Walking around and normal defecation serves to empty the glands but some animals become unable to empty their glands on their own at all. The sacs become impacted and uncomfortable. Dogs with impacted anal sacs usually scoot their rear on the ground in an attempt to empty the glands. Some dogs will lick their anal area and other dogs will chase their tails.
Cats often lick the fur off just under their tails.
The first step is to check the anal sacs when any pet has a history of scooting. If the secretion is very pasty, this method may be inadequate to empty the sacs. The procedure is repeated on the opposite side. Drag the gloved technician s arm to grab the cloth rag. Once you ve successfully grabbed the rag and properly positioned it, the technician will take over and demonstrate the proceedure.