Mirigymködés

Mirigyműködés refers to the process by which the anal glands, also known as scent glands or anal sacs, function in animals. These glands are located on either side of the anus and produce a strong-smelling secretion. This secretion serves multiple purposes in animal communication, including marking territory, recognizing individuals, and signaling reproductive status.

In many species, particularly dogs and cats, the anal glands are expressed naturally during defecation. As the stool passes, it exerts pressure on the glands, causing a small amount of secretion to be released. This natural expression is usually unnoticed by the animal and the owner.

However, sometimes the anal glands can become impacted or infected, leading to discomfort and health issues. This is often due to the sacs not emptying properly, which can happen if an animal has soft stools or changes in diet. Symptoms of impacted or infected anal glands can include scooting their rear end on the ground, excessive licking of the anal area, and pain or difficulty defecating.

Veterinary attention is often required to manually express impacted anal glands or to treat infections with antibiotics or other medications. Understanding mirigyműködés is crucial for pet owners to recognize potential problems and seek appropriate care for their animals.