On certain occasions we can observe our cat with an irritated anus. There are different causes that explain this irritation, which can get complicated until it becomes a rectal prolapse in cats. In this situation, a visit to the veterinarian is mandatory, since, without attention, the consequences can be serious.
In this article on our site we talk about rectal prolapse in cats, what are its causes and what is the most recommended treatment.
Cat with raw anus, is it rectal prolapse?
A cat has an inflamed anus for different reasons. For example, diarrhea, which would have to be seen why it has appeared, increases the number of bowel movements and generates efforts, which ends up irritating the area, which we will see reddened. But sometimes that redness or swelling is from tissue that should be inside the body. This is rectal prolapse in cats.
That being said, not always that the cat has a raw or inflamed anus and has a rectal prolapse. However, if the problem is not treated, it could eventually develop.
Types and symptoms of rectal prolapse in cats
Rectal prolapse occurs in different degrees depending on its severity. On the one hand, it can affect only the lining of the anal canal, which will be what comes out. It is known as incomplete prolapseBut, in complete prolapse, what protrudes through the anus is a segment of the rectum, which will be seen as a reddish or pinkish tube-shaped mass.
In addition to observing the protrusion of the rectum, it is common to notice the following symptoms in the cat:
- Stress and pain when defecating
- Frequent licking around the anus
- Apathy and Decay
- Loss of appetite
Rectal prolapse in cats - Causes
Stressing at the time of defecation is the main cause of rectal prolapse in cats. These must be considerable and last over time. Therefore, the cat is more likely to prolapse when suffering from severe constipation, diarrhea, or an anorectal obstruction such as can be caused by a foreign body. It can also appear when the effort is due to difficulties urinating or, in the case of cats, due to pushing during childbirth. In older cats it can be caused by rectal tumors
Rectal prolapse in baby cats
We highlight rectal prolapse in these children because they are the ones that can most easily suffer from diarrhea associated with the presence of parasites in the gastrointestinal systemIn fact, rectal prolapse is most common in kittens younger than six months. Frequent evacuation can cause anal irritation and, in the most serious cases, prolapses like the ones we have explained.
The treatment will be the same as for adults, taking into account their young age, which is also a reason to seek rapid veterinary assistance, since they are more vulnerable animals.
Treatment for rectal prolapse in cats
Minor rectal prolapses usually resolve themselves when treatment is given and the cause that caused them disappears. Antiparasitics and antibiotics are usually needed. Therefore, even if the anal inflammation is mild, you should go to the vet. Without solving the cause, we run the risk that the prolapse will worsen. On the other hand, in serious cases, it is necessary to intervene directly and quickly. You have to return the prolapsed tissue to its place
Therefore, the correction of rectal prolapse in cats is done by reintroducing the prolapsed tissue, of course, with the cat anesthetized. We say that it is necessary to intervene quickly because, otherwise, the portion of the rectum that has been exteriorized can become necrotic, which means the death of the tissue. In that case, a surgical intervention is necessary to remove the unusable fragment.
After the operation, it is common for the veterinarian to recommend a diet rich in fiber to improve intestinal transit and the consistency of the stools, as well as products that soften them and medication against pain and irritation. Then, as prevention, it is recommended to deworm the cat internally on a regular basis and go to the doctor at the first symptom of diarrhea or constipation.
Rectal prolapse in cats - Home treatment
Although aloe vera or similar products are recommended to apply to irritated skin, the truth is that rectal prolapse always requires veterinary intervention When the prolapse is mild, we may be tempted to treat it at home, but if we remember the causes that trigger it, even if they are simple like diarrhea, if they have managed to cause the prolapse, it means that they are serious enough to go to the vet. We remember that a poorly treated or neglected prolapse can end in a situation as serious as necrosis of part of the rectum. In case of prolapse, we must cover the mass with gauze moistened with saline solution and go to the vet.
