By Katten TrimSalon
Have you noticed white spots on your cat’s bottom? Is she licking her bum more than usual and pooping outside her litter box? If so, you might be wondering what could be causing these strange behaviors. Well, fret not! We’re here to shed some light on this curious situation.
What Are the White Spots on My Cat’s Bottom?
First things first, let’s talk about those white spots. The location of these spots can give us some clues about what they might be. The bottom area is composed of skin with an opening for passing poop and two smaller openings where anal sacs release their substances. These sacs contain glands that produce a pungent liquid, which helps cats mark their territory.
Sometimes, these anal sacs can get blocked or infected, leading to white spots on the bottom and increased bum licking due to irritation. A visit to the vet can help relieve the issue by gently emptying the sacs or providing antibiotic treatment if there’s an infection.
Another possibility for white spots is the presence of tape worm segments. These worms live inside the cat’s gut and release small segments as a means of spreading. When dried, these segments can resemble grains of white rice, while fresh segments may look like flattened pasta. Treatment for tape worms and other parasites is available through your vet.
Parasitic infections can cause irritation around the bottom, leading to excessive cleaning and licking. Additionally, flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) can manifest as increased grooming and hair loss along the back and hind legs.
Lastly, polyps or growths in or around the bottom area can also appear as white spots and may provoke increased licking.
Other Reasons for Bum Licking and Toileting Outside of the Litter Box
Besides the white spots issue, there are other factors that may be contributing to your cat’s bum licking and improper toileting.
Changes in the consistency of your cat’s poop, such as it being softer or harder than usual, can cause irritation and increased licking. This change in stool may be related to diet alterations, stress, or internal organ or gut issues.
Stress is another potential culprit for toileting disturbances, including pooping outside the litter box. Changes in the home environment, such as moving, introducing new family members (both human and furry), altering the cat litter, or changing the location of the litter box, can all elevate stress levels in cats. Additionally, pain, such as arthritis, can make it difficult for cats to perform their usual bathroom routines, resulting in accidents.
Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions to their routine or home can be challenging for them. If you observe these behaviors, it’s essential to consult your vet for a comprehensive evaluation. Your vet can develop a plan to alleviate your cat’s symptoms, which may involve returning things to their previous state, medication, or pheromone treatments.
Don’t forget to consider pain as a contributing factor to your cat’s toileting problems. Cats are masters at concealing pain until it becomes significant. Arthritis, for example, can hinder their ability to access the litter box or assume the proper position for defecation, leading to accidents.
In conclusion, your question about your cat’s behavioral and physical changes has raised many intriguing points. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights. Remember to schedule a visit to your vet for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment. Your furry friend deserves to feel better soon!
Shanika Winters MRCVS