Why Does My Cat Have White Stuff Coming Out of Her Bum?

If you're noticing white discharge coming from your cat's hindquarters, it's a clear sign that something isn't quite right and warrants prompt veterinary attention. While cats do have anal glands that produce a fluid, normal anal gland secretions are typically not white. The presence of white discharge often indicates an underlying health issue.

Understanding Your Cat's Anal Glands

Cats possess two small scent glands, commonly known as anal glands, located internally on either side of their anus. These glands are present in both male and female cats.

• Normal Function: When a cat defecates, these glands typically release a small amount of fluid onto the stool. This fluid has a distinct, strong odor and serves as a unique scent mark for territory.
• Emotional Release: It's also common for cats to involuntarily release their anal gland fluid when they are surprised, frightened, or under significant stress.
• Typical Appearance: Normally, the fluid from anal glands is brownish, yellowish, or sometimes even greenish, with a very strong, often fishy smell.

Potential Causes of White Discharge From Your Cat's Rear

The presence of white discharge suggests that it's likely not normal anal gland fluid, or that the anal glands themselves are experiencing an abnormal condition. Here are some potential reasons for white discharge from your cat's rear:

1. Anal Gland Issues

When anal glands become impacted (blocked), infected, or develop an abscess, the fluid can change significantly in consistency and color.

• Impaction: If the small ducts that release the fluid become blocked, the fluid can thicken, leading to discomfort and potential infection.
• Infection or Abscess: Bacteria can invade impacted glands, leading to a painful infection. The white discharge you observe could be pus, which is a collection of white blood cells, bacteria, and dead tissue. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, redness, pain around the anus, and a foul odor. An anal gland abscess can even rupture, releasing the pus and potentially blood. Learn more about anal gland issues in cats.

2. Intestinal Parasites (Worms)

Certain types of intestinal parasites, particularly tapeworms, can sometimes be mistaken for white discharge.

• Appearance: Tapeworm segments look like small, flat, white pieces of rice or sesame seeds. They can often be seen around the anus, on the cat's fur, or in their stool. These segments can sometimes move. While not a "discharge," they are a common cause of white material observed near a cat's bum.

3. Other Possible (Less Common) Causes

While anal gland issues are the most frequent culprits for discharge from this area, other conditions might also lead to white or whitish discharge:

• Perianal Fistula: A chronic inflammatory condition that creates draining tracts around the anus. While often involving blood or brownish discharge, some cases might present with pus if infected.
• Reproductive Tract Discharge (in female cats): In female cats, discharge originating from the vagina can sometimes be mistaken for anal discharge due to proximity. Conditions like a uterine infection (pyometra, which is very serious and life-threatening) can produce pus-like, whitish-yellow discharge.

What to Do If You See White Discharge

Observing any unusual discharge from your cat's rear end is a clear signal that a veterinary visit is necessary. Prompt action can prevent worsening conditions and alleviate your cat's discomfort.

• Do Not Attempt Home Remedies: Never try to express your cat's anal glands yourself or administer any medication without professional veterinary guidance. Improper handling can cause significant pain, further damage, or worsen an infection.
• Schedule a Veterinary Examination: Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, which will likely include checking the anal glands. They may also recommend diagnostic tests such as:
  • Manual expression of anal glands to assess the consistency and color of the fluid.
  • Fecal examination to identify any internal parasites.
  • Blood tests or imaging (like X-rays or ultrasound) if an internal infection or other systemic issue is suspected.
• Treatment: The specific treatment will depend entirely on the underlying cause diagnosed by your vet. It could involve:
  • Manual anal gland expression by a veterinary professional.
  • Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.
  • Pain management medication.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Deworming medication if parasites are found.
  • In severe or recurrent cases of anal gland abscesses, surgical drainage or even removal of the glands may be necessary.

It's crucial to address white discharge promptly, as conditions like anal gland infections can be extremely painful for your cat and may escalate to more serious health problems without proper care.