My beautiful, well-mannered cat expresses her anal glands when she is happy, and I thought I was the only one with a cat who did this until last week.
Why don’t we cat owners talk about these things? Are our cat’s rear ends just too delicate a subject and we don’t like to discuss them? Well, that ends today!
Feline Anal Glands
What we usually call anal glands are actually the anal sacs, small, pea-sized spaces on either side of your cat’s anus at about the 5 and 8 o’clock location. The anal glands are contained in the anal sacs, and they create a oily, unpleasant-smelling substance that collects within the sacs.
The contents of these sacs are then used for marking purposes. That’s why your cats sniff each other’s rear ends: they are checking out the calling cards from their anal sacs. When your cat defecates, the anal sacs are squeezed, and their contents are deposited onto the waste. You may have heard of wild cats leaving feces unburied around the perimeter of their territory to mark it; this is done because the feces has the identifying scent from the cat’s anal sacs.
Most people don’t realize their cats have anal glands or anal sacs until something goes wrong. When the sacs aren’t emptied during defecation, like when a cat has soft stools for an extended time, so nothing presses against the sacs during visits to the litterbox to empty them, the cat’s body can start to reabsorb the fluid from the contents of the anal sac, making it thicker and even harder to empty, until it becomes impacted or even infected. This requires veterinary attention.
Spontaneously Expressing Feline Anal Sacs
Cats don’t just express their anal sacs when visiting the litterbox. A big scare can be enough for a cat to leave behind an unpleasant-smelling surprise when he expresses his anal sacs spontaneously. This can be mistaken by humans who don’t know about anal glands and anal sacs as the cat “pooping a little” when scared, so this may happen more often than people realize.
If you think expressing anal sacs in fear sounds like another animal you’ve heard of, you’re right. It’s similar to the defense mechanism used by skunks. We should be glad that cats don’t have the kind of aim with their anal sacs that skunks do!
Cats Expressing Anal Sacs when Happy
A happy cat often rubs his head against his favorite humans and objects. This activity deposits pheromones from the scents glands on the cat’s cheek and forehead, letting the kitty mark his territory with his scent.
So why is it surprising that some cats also spontaneously express their anal sacs when they’re in the middle of doing other things to happily mark territory? It is an extension of that same, happy behavior.
There’s no study of how widespread cats happily expressing their anal sacs actually is. An informal poll of cat lovers turned up a surprising number of people who had seen it, and all of them thought their cat was the only one.
Stop Making Feline Anal Glands a Polite Secret
Cats happily expressing their anal sacs can be mistaken as incontinence or even misbehavior by someone who doesn’t understand what is happening. That could lead to cats being surrendered to shelters.
The only way to solve this is to make it something that people have heard of and aren’t afraid to discuss. Can we agree not to be embarrassed to talk about this any more? It might save lives.
Research and further reading
Alleice Summers, Companion Animals
Gary Norsworthy, The Feline Patient, 4th Edition
Albone ES, Shirley SG, Mammalian semiochemistry: the investigation of chemical signals
between mammals
Photo credits: depositphotos/cynoclub, Cherry-Merry, darzyhanna
Seville at Nerissa's Life says
Once, way, WAY back when, the peeps lived with a cat named Kelsey. Well the neighbours behind their house had a big dog and that big dog got loose and he chased Kelsey through the raspberry bushes and Kesley, I am told, expressed her anal glands out of fright. It was the peeps first experience with such things and I’m guessin’ MOUSES! was said a whole lot. MOUSES!
Purrs,
Seville
michelle says
Hi so glad found this article and all the comments. It is now 2020 and my little miss has done this on my bed last night grossed me out. So happy to have this explanation. Ty all
birdandcatlover says
That is why I looked it up too…everytime my cat is permitted to knead a blanket, she leaves a terribly smelly liquid behind…and this time she did it about 6 inches from my pillow, and on the corner of my blanket!. I changed my sheet (which was fresh yesterday!) And turned my blankets upside down (they are my softest and warmest, and my room gets to about 60 degrees at night).
manicskeleton says
My kitty just recently started doing this at about a year old. I am glad to know it is normal, but is there any way to stop it from happening? It just grosses me out even though I know its natural but I don’t want to have to keep her off my bed because i love her :’)
Tortie mom says
Every night my girl scoots her butt once down the length of my leg on top of my blanket. Then she curls up between my legs and goes to sleep. No discharge or smell. She just scoots her butthole down my leg then crashes out😂😂😂
Anonymous says
i was playing with my cat and making him dance. I then took him off my bed, and i smelt BOOTY JUICE!!!!!!!! nasty ass. i thought it was at the end of my blanket, so i moved it to the bottom. but it was ON THE SIDE. so i sprayed it with fabreeze. that’s it, just thought i’d share.
Any says
This just happened now! Our youngest cat was just being happy being petted, but she drools so much when happy.
So I pushed her off of the bed because then all my sheets would get wet with drool, and she squirted a dark dead fish scented liquid all over my bed and myself.
This is so gross! Will this ever stop if she started that? Do “cats that do it” do it all the time? 😰
Shelby says
My male cat drools when he’s happy. Mostly when we’re snuggling. He is like a dog I swear, he loves water, drools on me when he’s happy, and growls at the door whenever he hears my neighbors coming up the stairs. We got him from someone who had him from the time he was a kitten and they told us he was both neutered and had all his shots. He was so skinny and malnourished when we got him I took him to the vet and they said they had a pretty good idea he had never seen a veterinarian before. I believe his previous male owner abused him because he was so terrified of my boyfriend for over 6 months. He would cower and hide whenever he was around. Hiss at him, try to bite him if he came close. It broke my heart that someone would do that to a cat.
Anyways I am kind of relieved and happy to hear that someone else’s cat drools like my Storm 🙂
He’s a mommas boy for sure, my female cat is not a huge fan of him but I believe it’s because he is a lot younger than her and all he wants to do it play with her. I’m hoping it get better.
My female has started scoring a lot more recently and I’m worried it’s her anal glands. She hasn’t had soft stools. And she doesn’t have worms. I’m going to take her to the vet this coming week just to be sure. She hasn’t seen the vet since the end of the 2020 so she is due for a check up regardless.
Gail says
My boy secretes when nervous as well as when trying to make a jump and missed falling back. But tried again and made it. Vet when he was only a pound gave him all shots and flea meds and dewormer. He had a fever then of 105. Nervous system damaged, for his life.
My homeopathic vet says he needs fiber for the discharge.
Sweet potatoes he says. Plus put him on hills w/d. And calming drops. Will this help him?
Laura says
When I had to give my little cat eye drops eight times a day, after several weeks she hopped up on me like usual, but then turned her butt toward my face and squirted (not sprayed) me from 8 inches away – right in the eye! Pretty stinky. And her message, if not the liquid, was pretty clear too.
Anne says
This can be food allergies, IBD or cancer just saying, infected anal sacs….my cat is on antibiotics
Adena Brunette says
Omg my girl did this while on my sofa and I about died. She’s always “making biscuits” and I’m assuming this was a happy expression but not so much for the sofa. I thankfully saved it with some thieves and a steam cleaner. My kiddo happened to sit in it and say “I smell kitty’s but stink” lol she’s gotten me once out of fright… so we know that stank. Anyway, kiddo cleaned, sofa cleaned. Now I’m just wondering if it’s because she’s not able to express them when she has a bm. Dry goods made her pee blood so we do raw frozen now.
Lena says
My 7 month old kitten was rubbing chin on me then sprayed me with anal glands. Having been a Vet Tech I knew kitten was marking me as his human. But it still STINKS!
Herekittykitty says
My three mo old kitten was rubbing noses with me purring away… I’m happy to know it’s a good thing. As a new kitty mom I was a little nervous for her.
Nicole Vede says
My cat did this on me today. It was stinky. He was happy.
Raymond says
Mine do this when I pick them up, especially, my Tuxedo girl. Then, a few days ago, my Tortie jumped on me suddenly, and I grapped her and she left clumps of stuff on my chair, and I immediately sprayed with the bottle if cleaner that we have around for hairball puke!!!
Aubrie says
I was so happy to find this blog about happy anal expressing. I just gave my cat the best scratches while she was in my lap and I ended up with a nasty smell on my pants while she was cleaning her rear. I’m happy to know that I won’t have to take her to the vet and that she’s just really happy with my affection.
Summer says
We haven’t run across this ourselves. Maybe we’re just lucky!
Dory says
I put our fat cat on his back in my lap (feet facing away from me) I pull up on the bottoms of both his feet and pull up toward us and instantly expresses him-Which is great because he hates being exppressed the way the vets do it. and I love not paying to have the vet do it.I do this outside or in the tub for the convenience of getting rid of the odor.
Sturge83 says
I thought I was losing my mind!! I have a ring tail cat, which means his tails never goes down. It’s always up over his back. I thought I was hallucinating the first time he squirted stuff from by his butt. Then he just did it to me AGAIN! This time some got in my mouth!! Now that I think about it both times was when I was petting him and he was really happy! Eeewwwww. Wouldn’t mind so much but it keeps getting in my mouth!
jeanne says
My cats does this too! I’m sorry you got it in the mouth, but its so weird. I can’t pet her too.much or she goes on me. Today I was playing with her and it squirted across the kitchen floor. Yuck! But she’s a very nice kitty.
Judy says
My cat did this today. He had been on my lap, got up and stood on the arm of the chair. And out it squirted– all over my shirt. It’s the first time he has done this. I didn’t know what was going on! Glad I found this site .
Mery says
My cat/ well 10 months old kitten 🐈⬛ always does it when I pick him up or pet him or he sleeps by my feet. I never seen the squirt, all I smell os a horrid smell. And then he acts like nothing had ever happened and move away and I am left wither with clothes that need washing and self that showers lol or with covers and sheets to change. Just done it again now, and then off to his litter and some food, thanks 🙏🏼 😂 glad I saw this
Angela T. says
this sounds like a fantastic way to lose a few pounds!!
Nicki and Derry (Fuzzy Tales) says
Gees, I didn’t know cats could spontaneously express their anal sacs. I wish Nicki would, maybe he wouldn’t have to go to the vet every three months to have them done. They’re always filled, one in particular, in spite of the fact that most of the time his stool is normal.
I probably wouldn’t realize it, though, if he did (I can’t smell), and would just wipe it up, not realizing.
Thanks for this, I learned something new today and it’s only 5:15 AM. 🙂
Laurie Tremblay says
Hi, my new cat express his anal sacs when he is sleeping in my arms, IN my bed . Good to read that it’s because he is happy but It’s very gross and smelly. I have to wash the bed sheet and myself 🤦♀️
Brooke says
This happens to me too. I hate having to wash the blankets but I’m glad my kitty is happy. I was worried at first.
Sandra says
Hey how ofttn dose the cat do this? First time for me my cat had this fart smell and licking me for ever like if she had a hair Bal or something stuck her throat ,but bath herself for long time!!I c my dog do this too then after weeks puke up a hairball ..sad to c them liking the floor and every thing! An my other cat when he’s scared he express too u hold him on his back and pull his legs to stretch or exserize them ..then boom here comes the stink!
Anna says
So I’m really close with my two male cats I have had them since they were kittens in the drawer behind my bed . We r very close , sometimes I even think they think I’m a cat . When I’m sleeping they come and put there arms and paws on me like they do each other . I’m have noticed over time , sometimes when my dominant big kitty is around there is this pungent smell like nothing I can explain . It’s not a cat urine smell . It smells like maybe a semen but juice gross idk smell. At first I thought it was me and freaked out . It’s happened a few times now though . I love my kitty . What to do?
Layla Morgan Wilde says
Sadly, I have way too much experience with this. Merlin used to have to get his expressed regularly. The vet finally taught me how and the rest is smelly history.
Florin says
I have a similar situation.
What was the solution the vet recommended?
Dianna Scarelli says
No solution! We’re screwed and it’s terrible. I feel horrible my poor cat has been crying for weeks. She normally does it herself but she couldn’t this time. Brought her to vet yesterday and shes still crying, scratching and flipping out.
Cats Herd You says
I’m sorry to hear your vet wasn’t able to help. Did your vet see this behavior to be able to make suggestions about it? Some cats will kind of “freeze up” at the vet and not show behaviors that help the vet understand what’s wrong. Getting a video of what you describe as “scratching and flipping out” at home might help your vet make a good diagnosis and successful treatment. We hope you can help get your cat relief soon!
Lynn Marshall says
Her glands may be infected. I would take her to vet.
Yanna says
We have a similar situation with our girl. The vet expressed her glands and said everything looked normal. She was in agony after having them expressed though!
Two months later and she’s scooting up a storm and I don’t know what to do. Has anyone tried Glandex or fiber?
She used to only spray when she was happy being brushed.
Lillylee says
My cat will let me make a toilet paper towel, tuck it under his tail, I gently grab the base of his tail, the thickest part with my fingers and thumb, then he’ll sit right on my hand. I don’t squeeze hard, but I can feel his pulse and he’ll stay as long as I let him, giving me face bumps and loving every minute till I put an end to it, then he’ll run to his box .
Angela T. says
sounds like the kitty has a painful infection down there!!
mommakatandherbearcat says
After your question, I did a fair amount of research to understand because I have no experience with this. I was quickly confused by little tidbits (often conflicting) scattered everywhere and I was having problems putting all the little pieces together so they made sense. You put everything together wonderfully, clearly and concisely. Thank you. And I bet you are right – many cats are probably surrendered because people don’t understand what’s going on. I had no idea this could happen – but then again, Bear’s part of me so he wasn’t going anywhere even if it did.
christina Bickford says
I just recently realized that my gorgeous, Vinny does this but more the happier he becomes.
He has always done this in all the years we have had him but not until recently did I become fully aware,he has become more of an inside cat since we moved back to the city.
Madi says
Oh for sure we know all about anal glands. My human sis’s first kitty Miss Cali often had to have hers expressed. They tried to teach my sis how to do it but sis said there are somethings in life PAYING to have done for you and this is one of them.
Hugs madi your bfff
Angela T. says
my sweet natured kitty turns into an axe murderer if anyone gets too close to her bum-bum!! the incredible hulk vibes…………
The Island Cats says
Well, I know about anal glands but I wish I didn’t. I had one that almost ruptured and I had to have surgery and wear that stoopid cone. I don’t want that to happen again so the mom makes sure the vet checks them whenever I’m there. It seems like Wally expresses his when he’s happy or content…once he did it right on the kitchen counter! Ewwwwww! The mom got out the bleach. ~Ernie
Laila and Minchie says
Can’t say our mom has had any experience with this so your article was very informative. Thank you!
Lola and Lexy says
You’re right, humans shouldn’t be embarrassed to discuss these things. They can help each other learn more about keeping their kitties safe and healthy.
Kristine says
My Tornado needed her glands expressed….something we were willing to pay the vet to do.
da tabbies o trout towne says
we will bee happee ta talk shop heer; & knot feel “bad” bout doin sew
we noe furst dog hand & furst cat hand that compacted anal glands can
poze a seer ee uz health problem N scootin iza sign we knead help ♥♥♥
Lady says
You’re stupid.
someone with a sense of humor says
and you’re a sour piece of cat crap!
Jr & 40 says
Lol
Amanda Peterson says
Don’t listen to ‘Lady’, she’s a grouch! You aren’t stupid. It’s kitty doggie talk & it was cute. CLEARLY she can’t understand kitties. Pff lol
Like ‘someone with a sense of humor’ said, ‘lady’ is a sour puss! “Hiss”
People just need to be nice or not say anything at all.
Random Felines says
we knew some of that….and mom says she is happy we don’t do it when WE are happy 🙂
Karina says
My 6mo old cat just did this after playing! She was super stinky and I saw some spots of liquid on her butt! I thought it was worms but she’s in door and healthy. I checked her butt and feces all looks good, man does it stink! I think she got overstimulated and skunked me!
Rachel says
Lol “skunked me”. My newish cat seems to express his when he is relaxed. It’s so gross but so far it’s only been on throw blankets so I just throw them in the wash. He doesn’t seem in pain and he doesn’t scoot around the floor so I don’t think he needs them expressed by a human.
Ellen Pilch says
Lucy used to do this once in a while and I thought it was her way of having revenge, but maybe she was just scared. She did it at the vets twice and once when a neighbor was visiting. None of my others have so far.
Melissa & Truffles says
I’ve (happily) never come across this during my life with cats…but now I know not to be concerned if I ever do!
Brian Frum says
Well, we haven’t thought of that here but it will be on our minds. Thanks for bringing it up.
Connie says
a polite secret.. lol. I love it.
The DAily Pip says
I am familiar (a little too well) with dogs’ anal glad issues. Both Ruby and our previous dog, Pip, had to be expressed from time to time, but I knew very little about feline anal glands.
Sweet Purrfections says
Sweet Praline had to be taken to the vet a couple of times because her anal glands needed to be expressed because they became impacted and infected. Nasty stuff.
Three Chatty Cats says
This is very interesting and something I hadn’t heard of before (happily expressing). So that’s definitely a good topic to get out there in the open!
Teresa says
This is so informative! We had checked with the vet about it, as our younger cat ‘emitted’ the yucky- rancid odor, first noticed when we found a surprisingly deep wound near top of her under thigh. Also has happened when she is excited/playing/rasdlibg with my husband. The wound , we carefully cared for until healed, cats generally can heal their own. But the anal sac spray.. could have done w/o that . We’ve had other cats over the years, but this is the first one to have ‘active ‘ anal sacs!
Adventures in Cat Fostering says
I’m one of the “familiar with this” ones! One of my guys has to have his expressed regularly. Many people have told me I can learn how to do it but a) I am HAPPY to pay the vet to do this!! and b) apparently my guy’s are not in the usual orientation and are “tricky”. It’s led to some pretty funny vet visits. Luckily all the vets and techs involved have had well developed senses of humour!
Annabelle says
Our Miss Boo sometimes has a problem with her glands …. but it’s not something she likes to admit.
Robin says
Our little Dexter seems to express his anal glands as a sign of happiness quite often. He is quite the stinker! It is interesting that these things aren’t discussed more openly like other medical issues.
Lesley says
We have had three purebred cats (one Siamese and two Abyssinians), all females, who scent (or scented) from their anal glands when extra loving. I guess it’s their way of marking us as their people.
Michelle says
Yes, that’s my experience with my cat. She’s done it on my hand twice. 🤢 Any ideas on how to train them not to?
Fraidy Cats! says
interesting! none of us our happy expressors and didn’t even know about this! purrs,
pip, smidgen, minnie, hollie, sharpie, ditto
Jr & 40 says
Awww ditto! I had a little girl kitten that was identical to her daddy! Which was My very first cat, first ❤️ love! I named her ditto!
The Swiss Cats says
We didn’t know about happiness expression. That’s great information : Claire is born with cats in the house and always lived with them, but none of them ever had anal glands problem, so she doesn’t know a lot about it. Purrs
Katie Isabella says
I’ll tell ya Newton, I agree with all your expression is showing us.
Katie Isabella says
Oops, Newton,excuse me. I posted that on the wrong bloggie of yours. xoxox
Kitties Blue says
Very interesting post. I’ll have to keep my eyes open to see if this is happening with any of mine.
Cathy Keisha says
Heh heh. Our Autumn did this once on the couch after Nicky chased her. We didn’t know it was only the anal sac.
Shelly says
Thank you ! I “googled” this a few weeks back and there was nothing. I actually thought it was me, as munchkin lays in bed with me and begins kneading into my arm and snuggling. In the morning sometimes there would be a spot. I never put it together until just this morning. When she was kneading, happy etc. then got up and cleaned herself leaving a little wet spot.
Chris says
Yes! One of my two cats (the female) does this, both when scared and when happy. I’ve come to expect it when grooming her (happy) or putting her in the cage to go to the vet (scared). It looks like a semi-opaque light colored mucus, sometimes enough to collect a bit when dabbed with a paper towel. It sure is smelly… anyone have any tips to minimize?
Emily says
My male cat gizmo is fixed and does this. His poo is normal and he only does it on my bed as thats where we usually have our cuddle sessions. There are 2 other males in the house as well. I use a tide pen or bleach pen on the spots if i cant wash it right away and i also have a waterproof cover that i put over my bed after making it each day anf it also helps with fur/shedding
Mare says
What type of waterproof cover, where an I go purchase one similar
Louise says
I would also like to know about the waterproof cover?
Nancy says
Yes, a couple times when my kiitty (female) was feeling particularly amorous she dropped some of the stinky stuff which brought me to this blog! I was wondering what the heck! So I guess it’s not abnormal and happens when kitty is feeling really emotional – scared or lovey?!
Liv says
My beautiful boy just let his go over my arm as I held him like a baby and tickled his belly, the pleasure was too much to bear and now I’m soaping poo juice off myself. He does is when he’s very content and I can’t be mad, lol.
Maeve says
I actually have a boy cat that does it when he is happy. He loves to be held and is so happy that it just happens. And it happens almost every time I hold or pet him. He usually notices the smell immediately and cleans his butt. I recently began fostering a girl cat and she does it as well. I’ve actually seen a white-ish fluid. She only does it as she is purring and cuddling.
The smell is definitely disturbingly awful and unforgettable. Lol!
jill says
I’ve got a happy cat too. My black and white moggy does it when she very happy or wanting a fuss made of her. She only does it too me so I’m sort of honoured she saves it specially for me just wish it didn’t stink so bad haha x
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Jackie says
When our younger female cat Ginger started leaving brown “blasts” on my sheets while cuddling on weekends we took both cars to the vet to be checked out. She quickly became my soul mate after was we adopted her as a kitten. She was the culprit with anal sac issues per the vet and the vet expressed her glands and recommended a high fiber prescription cat food. No issues with her any more. However, our male cat Percy is only a year older (soon to be 4) and for the past few years expresses his glands only when lying on me, and never on my husband, son or daughter. He is most attached to my daughter and frequently sleeps cuddled with her at night. On weekends he seeks me out for cuddles occasionally if I’m resting on the bed and just this afternoon expressed after only 10 minutes of cuddling on top of me. All of a sudden he stands up and sniffs the area of my clothing where his bum was resting and I know he’s done it again. It is maddening! The high fiber diet that they both eat doesn’t eliminate the problem. I’m just the lucky mom of the house! Husband and kids laugh and say Percy is just jealous of Ginger and that he’s marking me.
Stoked says
I’m glad I’m not alone. Our one cat had difficulty expressing his glands in the box, a change in diet has helped and he’s more comfortable around us so it doesn’t get spooked out of him anymore. But our other cat, my fatty baby Buddha, is turning four and only within the last year he’s been expressing when cuddling with me. Because it didn’t happen before I’m concerned the glands are irritated, it’s just the frequency is surprising. The only way I can avoid it is by pacing our cuddles. If he comes up and lies with me and we share gentle pets we’re fine, but when he’s super affectionate, like a hyper active child, he’ll almost maul me for attention – that’s when it happens! He just gets too excited. It’s kind of like an anxious child waiting to go to an amusement park, and they’re so excited that they pee themselves. You can’t fault them for it!
Jay says
Yes, this is real my cat Tigger will do this when he is happy and hasn’t had attention in awhile, it smells bad that’s for sure.
Laurie says
For the last 5 yrs I have been taking our cat in to the vet to get her anal glands done what she does is she will drag her butt on the floor and when she does it i notice a skid mark ..she comes up on my bed and foes it ..so because this has been going on for so long it gets very expensive so I’m just wandering what to do like why she even started foing it and yes lately I’ve noticed little nuggets of poop .and I’m telling ya when she goes in the litter box I don’t no why but she sit’s snd scratches for so long ..
Chloe says
My cat JUST did this on my clean sheets. She was making biscuits (uncomfortably) on my stomach and then stopped. My hand found the stuff on the sheet.
Ellen says
Greetings from Cape Town!
I have a 10kg tabby boy, Mizton, who secretes from his anal glands when he is very happy. His tail does that upright quiver and he purrs up a storm. None of my other furries have ever done so. I am a teacher and have had children throw up in front of me etc so nothing phases me, especially not when it comes to my cats! My vet said he wasn’t even aware cats could secrete when in an elevated happy state!
Thank you for your informative article.
Ellen says
Apologies, “fazes” and not “phases” in my original comment!
Carol says
I have a brother and sister cat combo. The male cat “Butters”, cheeses me all the time. I call it cheesing because it smells like the worst stinky cheese ever. I feel terrible because I know he just loves me, but I don’t even want to hold him. I have known about anal sacs in critters, especially dogs and having to have them expressed. He has no other problems with going to the box. He just leaks when he gets happy and excited. I literally have to change my clothes after I hold him. He drools all over me, cheeses me, and gets me covered in hair. It’s like his fur just pops off his body when I hold him, too. The cats fight and surprise each other and I’ve also seen splatter on the wall near their favorite ambush place. His little sister is pretty good at nailing him. Usually when he knows he’s done this, he licks the area and his butt. Now I keep a paper towel close to the couch, where he usually wants me to hold him, and I keep the towel pressed up against his bottom. I’m really glad my boyfriend doesn’t love me this much. =)
Erma says
I know this post is 2 years old, but are you a South Park fan, or is the Butters and cheesing a pure coincidence 🤔 lol I HAVE TO KNOW!!
Jr & 40 says
LOLOLOL! I was wondering the same thing 🤔!
Jennifer says
Omg I am so happy I found his article Bc when my cat is really happy he releases that foul smell and releases his anal glands all on his own on both sides!! I thought down thing was wrong until I found out his glands were releasing and hen found this article Bc he is so happy!! And it all fits together!!! What a relief. We are so lucky that this happens naturally Bc I know people that have to take their cats to the vet Bc they get impacted
jill says
Arnt we lucky to have such Happy Cats. Mine saves it all for me x I took her to the vets and my vet knew about this ”Happy Cat Syndrome ” I just so wish it didn’t smell like a mix of rotting fish and blue cheese!!! It’s always a complete change of clothes and a shower for me as she loves me so much haha
Cleo's mum says
Thank you for this article 😊 Cleo regularly let’s her sacs out on me when she is in the throws of ecstatic affection. I have been worried she may have a problem, but all the issues seem to be around blocked sacs rather than effusive ones. She has no pain, there are no lumps. She only does it when being really cuddly and kissy. I’m so glad to read that it isn’t that unusual, thank you.
Suzanne says
I was laughing out loud when I came across this article because I had done a random search thinking there’s no way I will ever find a topic on this. LOL And here it is! So every time I brush my kitty and get close to her back end she expresses her anal glands. She loves getting brushed and I know she’s happy because she’s purring very loudly and doing the happy prance. However it always takes me aback and I end up having to do a little bit of cleanup of the floor/my hand after. Glad to know I’m not the only one with a cat who does this!
Mary Rodriguez says
My female cat does this when I brush her and she’s happy. The smell is awful! Question, if I take her to get her anal glands expressed, will it still happen? She is a hairball, so I want to brush her, but at the same time I don’t!
Cats Herd You says
Mary, it sure can be frustrating! You should check with your vet for advice. My understanding is that they fill back up pretty regularly, so I’m not sure how much of an advantage that would be.
Monica Hartzell says
My cat does it when I pet him sometimes. It’s gross and gets in the carpets and linens. I immediately stop interactions and he’ll try to clean himself and leave the room. I don’t punish him for it…. But he’s knows if he expresses, petting time is over. I don’t think he can control it though.
He’s a good cat. Very mild mannered and considerate. Comes when he’s called and what not. Very good with the baby and hamster. Kills scary spiders and flies for us… so I guess we’ll just live with it and clean a bit more than others.
MarmorealArbor says
My little girl has expressed her anal sacs on me a few times, always when we’re cuddling and she’s really relaxed and happy. Last night, I was petting her and scratching one of her hind legs and she just let go and goo shot all the way across the room! It was a little startling, I have to say! Good to know that other cats do the same thing and there’s no cause for alarm. 🙂
Lisa says
This is great! First time I have heard anyone else call it “cheesing” or being cheesed by the happy, loving cat. I’ve had the honor from several of my beloved boy-cats over the years. Just a couple days ago, my youngest, 13 months old, actually squirted out the stuff, which was a new experience for each of us. I don’t know who was more surprised that he “expressed” his glands with such vehemence, him or me. Talk about stinky!
Chrissy says
Finally this article was the first one actually helpful. We have two cats. One is Loki. He has “overactive” scent glands. Nothing is wrong with his glands he just secretes the worst smelling liquid when he’s spooked or surprised. We’ve never run into this before so it has been a lot of Drs appointments and unaware people telling us to get his glands removed. Well he’s keeping them and it’s good to know it’s normal!
Misty’sHuman says
Thank you so much for your article and thank you commenters for letting me know this happens to other humans and their cats. Yesterday my Siamese kitty, Misty, and I were cuddling and napping when she leaked/squirted on me multiple times. I knew it wasn’t pee, it was clear, and it didn’t have a scent that I could smell. But it was very strange to me and felt perhaps too intimate? I had never experienced that before so thank you for normalizing my experience.
Phoebecat says
My cat wants me to pick her up so I do. I hold her awhile then put her down and after that I smell the stench on my clothes. Is she marking me? This is the first cat I have had to do this.
Lauren says
Our lovely little cat, less than a year old, has always spontaneously secreted. We’ve never seen any liquid but she definitely leaves a horrid smell where she’s been lying/sitting at times. She often has the smell on her too. She’s not overweight, grooms herself well and eats tuna and salmon. It’s really horrible. 😞
Rocky says
My younger cat does it when he is happy and purring. He likes to jump up on my shoulder and every once in a while he expresses his glands. Not fun when it is on the kitchen counter, yuck.
I can also smell it on places where he has laid down. Drives me crazy.
Kelly says
We have 6 kittens from a Mother and her mature Daughter…4 and 2. The 2 smallest ones, from each litter, have a very obnoxious anal gland secretion (we thought it a “happy-fart”)…a little worse than burning teeth under a dentist drill. It has taken them 4 months to reach 3Lbs. for sterilization…perhaps from more assertive siblings at dinner.
Chris says
My cat also deposits a terrible odour when she’s happy and purring. You can smell where she’s been and I have to keep washing blankets. Sadly, I don’t like her sitting on my knee because of the stench she leaves. After reading comments, I’ll get the vet to empty her anal glands and hopefully it will help.
Melissa says
My Leo, an extremely affectionate neutered white cat with a vans pattern does this when happy… I thought it was spraying but it’s just a very short squirt that is kind of musky smelling but has no hint of urine smell whatsoever. He’s done it 3 times while I’ve been petting him and he always tries to get me to rub his rear… each time he’s squirted me I was petting him and he was extremely happy.
Barbara says
Just saw this post and felt an immediate connection. I am 71 and have had one to four cats in my home since I was 5. Three years ago, I adopted two rescued white and golden van marked kittens, removed from feral Mom’s woodpile at three weeks. Wonderful, super smart, funny, ACTIVE cats. Caesar and Cleo. I am Cleo’s ersatz Momma. She loves to nurse and knead in my elbow crook, purring loudly…and then…yuk! Small brown stains with large brown smell appear on my arm, clothing, etc. First time I have ever experienced this phenomenon. When I put her down she immediately cleans herself while I am throwing my clothes in the washer.
I wonder if Van’s are particularly prone to this experience? Her brother is not as needy or kneady as she is, and I have never seen or smelled the anal sac expression from him.
All things being equal, it is well worth the price for such a unique, loving, beautiful, active and genius level intelligent cat. Despite this one annoying habit, I feel like I hit the jackpot.
Brittany says
I am reading this post because my cat literally just sprayed for the first time ever… on my legs…because he was very happy.
I have spent the last 5 minutes scrubbing my legs with pine-O-clean and choking back vomit.
The smell is RANK.
I have a strong stomach, but this is worse than any putrid thing ive ever smelt. It’s even worse than skunk spray! 🤢🤮
Vinícius says
I know how it feels! Surprisingly, in all this discussion, there is very few tips on how to clean it and remove the smell. I was even wondering if my cat’s fluid has a stronger smell than normal. It is absolutely gross. I can feel the smell for weeks.. even after cleaning the area repeatidly with several types of detergents, cleaning products, essential oils…
Carla Lor says
My mama cat has been leaking fluid from her behind the past few days when she becomes overly affectionate to me. She will continually rub her head almost like a love me love me love me attitude. I notice a fluid from her behind but there is no smell with it. Could this be the same thing?
Pier says
My cat sometimes secretes a clear and incredibly terrible smelling liquid that can be smelled from the next block, when he is extra emotionally lovey… It’s cute that he gets so emotional but the smell is disturbing! I wonder if there is a way to stop or minimize that behavior…
Kris says
Thank you for this article and all of the comments! Good to know I’m not alone with this. I’ve only had dogs that I’ve dealt with when it came to anal glands but never had a cat that expressed them until Lily. She isn’t a snuggler normally like her brother but once in a while she is and when she does she will let loose with the glands. I have a pack of “tushee wipes” ready when she does! Thank you again!!
Stephanie Atlas says
My cat spray me in bed this morning after some loving pets. I’ve had him for a year and a half and never seen him spray, let alone from his butt. This article helped a lot, thank you! Will be going to do laundry now! ^_^
Amanda says
I’ve had cats my whole life and never encountered anything like this, until now. In 2015 we adopted a cat from the humane society. She was 6 at the time so I guess she’s 9ish now. About a year ago, she was going up the stairs before me and suddenly stopped, she was blocking my path with her but towards me, so I used my Samsung tablet to gently pump her in the back of her back legs, she startled and I smelled something horrible and noticed my tablet case had a wet spot. I was grossed out and figured I’d scared some pee out of her and washed it off. Never thought about it again until today, I was going through the weekly flyers on the coffee table, she climbed up on the chair I was on, went around behind me, came down the side and leapt onto the papers on the coffee table. I told her to get down, she ignored me, I used one of the flyers to again, poke her in the back of the leg and she flew off the table and left a puddle of the rankest stuff on the papers on the table. The smell just will not go away. I like the smell of skunk, but the stuff that came out of my cat, ugh, so damned gross. So I googled it and found your site. So sorry your cat does it on the regular.
Kari H. says
Ohhh my goodness my cat got me last night when I came home from a two week vacation. She was sooo happy she climbed on top of my shoulders and and I knew immediately what it was. Kind of gross not gonna lie, it smelled really bad and wrecked my new shirt and I had to immediately get in the shower bc just wiping it off didn’t even begin to take to smell away. Moral to the story is I was so happy to see my Gracie and I am positive she was happy to see me!! P.s. that’s the second time she’s done that to me and then rubs her face all over me. She’s my bud
Karen says
I adopted a female kitten from a shelter about 1 1/2 yrs ago. Then another about 1 yr ago. Both neutered females. They get along, but i suspect the 1st is abit jealous. I caught her scooting her bum across the rug a few times, after we had her for a year.
Took her to vet. Wormed her, had her anal sacs checked. Not impacted. Tried a novel prescription diet thinking she had allergies/sensitivities or stress related itching, grooming.
NOW i am wondering if she is marking me!!!
She doesn’t do it to my husband. And she is very aware when other cat spends physical time with me-gives us the “stink eye” from across the room.
She will sit on my lap, or hip while i lie in bed. Then sometimes she will scoot down my leg, like a slide. LUCKY ME! I notice she leaves little skid marks…ugh, ick. Now I only see her doing it while on our bed.🤔
I think i need to speak to vet about it as we’ve been treating it as a food sensitivity💡💡💡Maybe she “just” loves me alot.🙄
FLGdNbr says
I have had cats my entire life and NEVER had this new cat from the shelter when she was on my lap & she turned toward her bottom & made the mess & smell on my face & chest. I thought she was being mean to me & had to change our clothes & wash up from the lovely dark brown liquid. NOW I know that it was a lovely display of “love”. Oh, great…..this cat has been the awful behavior feline. Why did it had to be MY cat??!
Deb says
It seems many people commenting are confusing anal gland problems or issues with the happy expressing this article is about.
I’ve owned many cats over the years and just last year had my first encounter with a happy, healthy cat who expressed when he was feeling loved. Not out of fear, not in pain, not because he has an infection, or because it was time to have his glands expressed by the vet. Only because he was happy.
I too was confused and concerned at first. Vet visit confirmed he is healthy and no gland issues.
Someone earlier up made the comment about how this situation probably contributes to cats being surrendered or abandoned. I agree, and I think that makes it more important to differentiate between cats who are having problems with their anal glands and cats who don’t have problems with their anal glands, but express them when they are happy.
How many sweet, beautiful, loving cats have been rejected, given up, (or worse), because people didn’t understand this was a normal occurrence for them. Imagine showing your love back and receiving the responses of horrified people realizing they’ve been marked with your butt juice. Imagine being subjected to all sorts of medical interventions and diet changes because people are certain there must be something wrong with you.
I’m not trying to suggest this is a pleasant thing to deal with. Once I found out it was part of his way of saying ‘I love you’ back to me, i felt guilty that i immediately shouted at him, moved him off of me, and took off to try and clean myself off. But that doesn’t mean the potential to be stained with greasy, potent butt juice is any less horrifying. And to be clear, it doesn’t happen all the time. Not even say 30% of the time. It’s only happened 5 times over the past year. So it’s a Russian Roulette of sorts.
I think the first step is finding a good stain and odor remover. If it can be fixed, it’s less frustrating. No more silk sheets on the bed. Just kidding, I never had those, but obviously pay attention to the fabrics in the house. I’ve owned cats forever so I already do this, but a new cat owner may not think of it. Then just some common sense. Don’t get dressed up to go somewhere and love up on your cat before walking out the door. Things like that. Even when it becomes upsetting, try to remember the intention of your cat. This isn’t vengeance or malice, it’s love. Stinky, inconvenient, no thank you I’d prefer you didn’t but I agreed to love you forever so here we are, love.
Thank you for having this article available. 😊
Alyssa says
So, I’m not sure if my story matches up quite exactly to everyone else’s and I’m going crazy! My precious baby Gizmo, she is 5 years old, and since she was 2 has had to have her anal glads expressed. The first time it ever happened and became aware of the issue, was when she was 2. She ended up developing a abcess on her cheek you would say (right next to her anus). It bursted and I ended up taking her in for them to tell me it was due to one of her anal glads becoming blocked, and then her continuously licking it. Well since then, I have taken her often to the vet to have them expressed when her mood seems to be more unpleasant then usual. Well the last time I took her, since then she has had 3 explosions of bad diarrhea where she runs throughout my house poop flying and farts exploding from her bottom. And now since they have returned to a normal stool she is displaying discomfort cause she is growling when pooping and, she is also peeing on clothes around my home. I am going to have to take her to the vet at this point, but I live in a small town with not many other vets around, and almost wonder if my vet isn’t finding if there is something more wrong here? Just seems since her last expression at the vet, she has become worse with more symptoms and issues now! I feel so badly for her and love her so much I can’t think to give up! If anyone has any knowledge or opinions it would be greatly appreciated!
Kathryn says
I’ve had cats all my life and had never experienced this before last night when my young male decided to mark me on my arm.
I’m really glad this isn’t an unusual thing, and that there’s nothing wrong with him. Thanks for this article!
Acoya says
Is there anyway to help control this? My cat definitely does this when happy, every time he gets comfortable on the bed looking cute purring and kneading the blanket he leaves a foul odor behind and I constantly have to wash the blankets.
Frankie says
My very affectionate & cuddly cat does this often when he is happy, or if someone scares him. He especially “expresses” on me if I’ve been out of town, in between head butts, purring and rubbing all over me, the little stink bomb emerges. It’s not a big deal, nothing some soap and a towel can’t fix. I’m glad to know other cat owners are learning more about this stinky but benign behavior.
Guy Boucher says
Thank you for this helpful information. Sometimes when I brush or pet my female cat Jade she releases a pheromone from her back end and for the longest time I thought it was something I was doing wrong. I’m happy to hear that it’s just a happy expression from Jade to me and I’m not hurting her.
Elizabeth Coquillard says
My cat of a year just did this! I’m laying in bed with my toddler and she jumps up in between us and we both give her lovins. Then she kinda scooted back her butt until she’s almost sitting on my toddlers head. So I pick her up and put her down on the floor because who lets their cats put their butts in your face or your toddlers. Within a minute I’m smelling a dirty butt smell. First I think maybe my toddler pooped or something. Check her diaper, that’s not it. So I start to smell around and don’t have to look far. My shirt stinks. So I change it. Then I smell it on my sheets. And pillowcase. And last but not least I took a whiff of my daughter’s head. It’s everywhere! So I popped her and the cat in the bath. My husband is still sleeping in the bed…Needless to say, my bed is now a pet free zone. I can’t even…
Tycho's Mom says
I’m happy to find this article and see I’m not the only one with a cat who does this! My Siamese just came to me for attention and was purring heavily while we snuggled and he got skritches and rubs, and then when he left I had to go change my shirt. I’m glad he was enjoying the loving, but wow that stuff is stinky! I’m just thankful he doesn’t mark me every single time.
Laura says
Our 1 1/2 year old cat just recently starting doing this. He climbs up on the bed, rubs his head against me, kneeds the comforter and leaves….. the smell hits me in the face so hard!!! I did some research that said they do this when they’re happy. Ok bud can’t you show me another way that you love me. He does it at least 2x a week. Worst smell ever but I love him dearly. At least I have very clean blankets for a few days till he marks the next one 😽
Kenny says
We have two cats. One for 8 years, and the other one 4 years. The 4 year old was a rescue. He has been neutered. He still has very sexual tenancies. He will wiggle wiggle and his private part pops out. No spraying. Always cleans himself when he is finished. The other day, I was playing with him when he was in his play tunnel. All of a sudden, the smell hit! There were a couple of brown spots on the inside of the tunnel, and he came out and immediately started cleaning himself. A couple of weeks later…….this morning……I was in the recliner chair, with a blanket covering me, and he decides he wanted to do the wiggle wiggle on me and the blanket. Here it comes again……that smell is something out of this world. I picked him up, and placed him on the floor, took the blanket straight to the washing machine, let him clean himself up, washed my arms and hands, and here I am, telling our story. Very happy to see that my youngest is a happy cat, and that others have experienced this also. I could do without the smell and cleanup though. I am surprised that even after being neutered, he still has these tenancies! Never would I scold him though, for being himself. The love between pets and their owners is such a wonderful feeling! I LOVE CATS!!!!!
Michelle says
Like many others here I am appreciative of the article, which is the only one on the subject of found that seems to relate to my experience of my cat’s behavior, and I am eager for info on how to change the behavior. I’ve had cats my whole life and one of my latest ones has sprayed the nasty stuff a few times when she’s super happy and affectionate- it’s the first time I’ve ever dealt with this. It really makes me want to vomit, and I don’t find it acceptable. I wonder if keeping a squirt bottle on hand would help train her not to do it? Does anyone have any experience successfully changing the behavior? Thanks!
Kat says
I am so happy that this article exists!! This is truly what makes the internet great! Hahaha My husband kept getting mad at me for squeezing our little lady cat too hard when we cuddled on the couch, but I swore I wasn’t squeezing! Now it all makes sense. I am her chosen human and she just can’t contain her excitement when she gets some good scritches from me. I’m very glad that it’s not a health issue, but am not ecstatic that it’s going to keep stinking up our cuddles. 😛
Jo Anne Verwey says
Our tuxedo cat has what we call “leaky butt” when he’s cuddling and purring. I just wonder if those sacks can be removed.
Cait says
My kitty Batman doesn’t do it that frequently, but when I smell it on him, I’ve applied a little bit of melted butter to his anus and he gives it a realllllly good clean. The trick is catching the stink before he gets it on the furniture. I like to think this tasty practice has fostered a general love of hygiene for him.
Shasei Gonzalez says
So my cat tends to do it while he’s kneading. Up until recently I didn’t pay to much mind, but what caught my attention ( hilariously I might add) was how he smelt the leakage he had made and his face became priceless with his mouth open and his eyes crossed almost as if he found out right there and then that that stuff really stinks. So I decided to do a bit of research and I’m glad its not anything bad. I honestly just thought he was horny and this was his way of him spreading his fumes (although he’s been neutered and spayed). At least now I can laugh at disturbed faces he makes when he smells his own stink. 🙂
Alexis says
My cat only does this when she’s kneading me and I thought something was wrong. So it’s nice to know this happens and it’s not automatically a bad thing.
Thank you.
Monica Glenn says
I’ve had my Vincent for almost 7 years. He is a big’Ol blond orange, 15lbs or so, long haired 1/2 manecoon. I started noticing while I was brushing/grooming him, there would be a smell of rotting fish? But it would only do it, while I was grooming him. I can groom his brother, but his brother doesn’t do it. Anyways, I knew about dogs and their anal glands, so I started digging, and thinking? 🧐🤔
Every night he jumps up on my bathroom counter, howling over and over, he has a loud meow that’s different than normal, I call it his begging meow. So I usually will stop whatever im doing, and go groom him, I think he likes to get me all to his self? We’ve got 5 cats, lol. But he doesn’t do it every night, I guess just when he’s really happy.
I wouldn’t trade my spoiled Vincent for nothing!! ❤️❤️🐈
Thank you for writing this article, and I bet you’re right about some cats going to the shelters, because peeps don’t understand the full anatomy of cats. I pray this will help some kitties stay in their homes.
Banditcatmom says
I have had cats my whole life and never experienced this until our most recent adoptee. Bandit is super affectionate very sweet and bonded tuxedo. We got him neutered as soon as he was old enough. And then the sticky stuff started after he healed up. I keep medium sized pieces of fleece fabric, like little blankets, near where we sit when he likes to cuddle in my lap. When he jumps up to get in my lap, I grabbed one of the pieces of fleece and cover myself to keep my clothing Clean and Free of stink. He has never sprayed but I believe it’s like a leakage marking scent thing. And it mostly happens when he’s on my lap nobody else’s! Lucky me! But I do seem to be his person. The pieces of fleece are inexpensive and don’t take up a lot of room in the wash. We keep three or four on rotation, so we always have a clean one available. Or else I have to change my pants from the stink scent after he has been on my lap being all mushy and sweet.
Dana says
Thanks! I was worried about this. Yes, my cat has done it when she is super happy on my lap purring. I thought it was a symptom of something wrong. Thanks.First article that I read that talks about this. Thanks.
tac says
It looks like thats the case of my cat. There is no infection or disease just really bad smelly goo from behind every few days or so
Is there really nothing that can be done?
It drives me crazy …
Sue says
Milo is my 11th cat and he is the first cat I have had that has released his anal glands whilst being petted. He does become very rapturous on occasion almost losing the plot kneeling purring drooling in ecstasy and then the SMELL! It is gross …. he is a rescue and the only cat I’ve not had from a kitten 🐱 so I have no clue of his background except he was badly hit by a car and had fractured pelvis in 3 places and has 2 pins and a plate holding him together. I wonder if that has something to do with it? Anyway when he decides he wants loves 💓 and he gets enraptured we have this little problem… xx
Sarah says
Thank you! My kitty Oreo does this when she gets really excited- like when I come home after being gone a few hours and pet her at the door, or when I pick her up to cuddle. I had no idea what it was! It’s like a sudden squirt of the stinkiest thick opaque liquid ever. Seriously foul smelling, and really hard to get out of the hardwood floor even with intense scrubbing and scented soap. Her stool and urine are both normal, so I couldn’t figure out what was wrong, and her sister Cleo never does this. It’s kinda sad; I stopped picking Oreo up, and ease into petting her when I get home now, because the smell is just so terribly stinky that I try to avoid it. (Don’t worry- she’s still well cuddled! Thank goodness she never does this in my bed, as some other commenters’ cats do!) I’ve had cats all my life, and she is the first and only one to do this…
Victoria Reichenberg says
My cat does this in my bed whenever I love her a lot the way she likes it and she loves to sniff my hair and hairline!! If she gets her ” lovey eyes” I know in in for a stinky surprise… its awful because she knows after she does it because she immediately turns to lock it up before I run for the refresh spray that she hates, but i literally cannot sleep afterwards due to the strength of the smell, poor kitty. She gets so into our happy times that she just let’s it all go…
Nathan says
I think my cat did this today. Does anyone have any recommendations to clean it from fur. She got it on her hind legs and I tried washing it out but it’s still there
Ashton Newman says
My female cat is about 5-6 months old. Me and her were laying on my bed, while she was purring and rubbing on me when I was petting her. Then I realized this horrible smell. It smelt like she had farted or pooped. But when I looked down her vagina was wide open and it smelt like poop! And it also smelt like it on my blanket but it wasn’t wet or anything. I also have other kittens too, and I had another one in the house as well and I picked her up after she went behind the couch and she smelt like it too. But there was no poop or pee.. Does anyone know what this means?
Becky says
My cat has a extremely nasty smell that she lets out. We are glad we are not alone but can we squeeze the glands like they do on dogs. We don’t know how to fix this. She can clear a house it gets that bad.
Angela Schwindt-Paul says
Oh my gosh! I have been having this issue with both of my cats for over two years! The vet was zero help too! She just shrugged and said she didn’t know. Anyway I’ve had cats my whole life and never seen this. These two are mama and daughter so maybe that’s why they both do it but holy moley is it so dang gross! I’d almost rather they pee instead! I am not above going after them with baby wipes either! So mama does a release if you pick her up. She doesn’t like that and squirts it all over whoever picks her up. Makes going to the vet so fun. The baby does it much more often. I have noticed a correlation to any letting that goes near her butt, guy know that kind where they hit child’s pose and lift their butt? Yeh that seems to make her squirt and it keeps going for a while afterward. So nasty. Worse smelling thing I’ve ever experienced. I have no idea how to stop it but I try to stay away from her butt. I’m constantly washing my sheets and blankets due to this as well. Nothing gets me up and out of bed faster than this smell on my comforter.
Angela Schwindt-Paul says
Sorry typos
Cole says
This article needs to be renamed “Silent but Deadly” lol.
Just came across this article after I searched Google for “I spontaneously smell poop when my cat sits on my lap”.
She was on my lap and I was stroking her, she was dribbling [she has always done this when she’s happy] and purring like an engine. Suddenly, I got this hit of the stinkiest smell [definitely poop]. I assumed she’d just farted but now I’m absolutely convinced that she emptied the old glands.
Did not know cats could do this! I’m stunned. Definitely need to make this more well known!
Rebeckah says
So glad to see I’m not the only one. My dude goes in waves with it. I haven’t had him do it in a long time but just tonight he did it and it is sooooo nasty. All of the sudden my blanket was wet where he was sitting and right when I thought to myself, “wait, this wasn’t wet before,” he turns around and starts licking the spot (as he likes to do after it happens) and then the smell hits and it’s so damn bad. I feel bad for catapulting him off me and the blanket but I nearly threw up from the smell. (Being pregnant makes the smell super bad). Now I remember why I started to not want him on my lap anymore.
Kayla says
I felt like I was the only one for having a cat with squirting butt glands 🤣🤣🤣.
My Siamese has to have her butt cleaned on the regular and I have to express her glands almost daily because of this problem. She starts happily kneading a blanket and then she does this odd stretch where she arches her back and curls her tail and butt juice will just squirt out….it’s so so nasty. It’s a habit now to point her butt away from us when she starts kneading a blanket haha.
I have two other cats and their anal glands seem to express normally when they defecate. No squirting for them. I have to take a baby wipe to my Siamese’s butt, get the crusties off the gland openings, and basically squeeze her butt like a zit. Usually I get a little bit out. If I don’t do it daily she squirts on things.
Guess it’s just a little personality quirk for her….was hoping there was some solution other than cleaning her butt daily but I guess not!
Jessica says
First time I ran into this, I was studying right before an exam. A last minute cram. Well, Bruiser (a bulky, muscular, beat up polydactyl orange stray who has adopted me) decided to help. On my papers, in my face, loving me.
I saw something dark towards his rear and, in my innocence, when he turned away from me I took the opportunity to lift his tail up fully, see what was up.
Yeah, he shot me in the face. It was voluminous and it had velocity. Primarily liquid, some chunks for good measure. My mouth and eyes were both open. I yelped. He tried to lick it off. I had to run to my final to not be late so I couldn’t shower. I ran my face and eyes under tap water, then changed my shirt very fast… and grabbed a Clorox wipe to be used as a face wipe on my way to class. It was THAT bad. I soon got pink eye.
Poor Bruiser! He hadn’t meant to. I learned what anal sacs and glands were.
That stuff smells like rotting corpse.
Lyndie Chambers says
I knew dogs did this but I didn’t realize cats did too!
I stumbled upon this article searching for the reason my cats whole self reeks after they poop. They don’t smell like poop, but it’s a strong and very unpleasant smell that gets on my hand if I pet them or my clothes if they rub on me.
I was wondering if changing their food might help with the smell or if this just is the way it is?
SF_HappyChemistry says
My 2 year old cat also squirts fluid from her anal glands when she is happy. I noticed it while cuddling with her a few months after adopting her. She is usually purring and giving me the kitty slow blink when it happens. I thought that she had some type of health condition after a few episodes, but she is a healthy, young spayed female. She does have anxiety and OCD issues, so this may play into why she does this. If ever in doubt, be sure to check in with your vet to rule out disease/chronic illness.
Michelle says
I’m so glad I googled this, otherwise I would have panicked and taken my cat to the vet.
I recently bought some new bedding (teddy fleece) and my female cat has taken a liking to it.
Rolling about all over it, well this morning I woke up to a foul smell.
She has been sleeping on one side of the bed and it was so smelly.
Quite clearly she likes it, I however did not like waking up to that!!!
Needless to say, I don’t think I’ll have that bedding on again for a while.
I never knew that cats did this when happy, I’ve smelt it on occassion when she’s used the litter tray.
An eye opener to say the least.
Will remember this for a while 🙂
Chantelle says
Both my cats do this when happy and excited! It does smell! Glad I found this thread! I didn’t know it was so popular! It’s not pleasant but it does make me feel kinda loved at the same time! Haha!
CubedJ Ranch says
My (not so) little former feral expresses his glands when he plays hard on his favorite cat tree with his favorite toy.
He has also done this upon greeting me after I return from an over-night trip.
Excitement definitely plays a role in this.
Melanie Marcols says
I am so glad I found this article. This morning while my kitty Betsy was happy purring I carried her in to sit with me on the couch for morning cuddles while I drink my coffee. I had rolled her over and was rubbing her tummy when ejaculatetion of fuild came out her butt. I took her to the bathroom and wiped her tail were it had gone a thought I have never seen this before….hence your article explained my happy cats response. Thank you!
Cindy says
Fortunately, I only experience this when my little girl is on my desk while I’m working and I gently push her off the desk. Oh yeah, also if I pick her up with my hand under her bum. I’ve learned to push her tail down before I pick her up or encourage her to get off my keyboard and that seems to stop it. I’ve also learned that rubbing alcohol does a pretty good job of removing the fluid and smell.
Nate P. says
This is NOT exclusive to female cats! I have a near 5yr. old male snowshoe who gets very excited when being pet by his humans. Sometimes he gets too excited and all of a sudden my lap has a nasty smelling yellow/brown wet spot where his back end was. Twice in the time I’ve had him he’s actually shot me in the face with that excrement, and let me tell you, you do NOT want that experience. I’ve had cats my entire life. I currently have 4, all males. And no other cat that I’ve ever had, male or female, fixed or not, has ever “expressed” their anal glands on or at me before. This page makes it sound like a female thing, but any vet will tell you that’s very far from the truth.
Elizabeth Barnhill says
We have a young cat who will sit in my lap to be petted and he has left his stinky mark (we had dogs with anal gland issues, so we recognized the smell). I now keep an old baby blanket on my chair and when Orpheus climbs in my lap, I slide it under him. Just happened again a few minutes ago!
Alexa Blubaugh says
My cat has started army crawling across the floor with her but in the air, then she’ll march in place turning every so slightly so that in a few steps her butt is facing me and tries to rub her butt on me and then when I go downstairs (hubby won’t allow her down there) she cries hysterically like a whiny 2 year old and literally sounds like she’s saying mom but like mooooooommmmmmm mmmmooooommmmmm relentlessly till I come back up. I just don’t understand the army crawl and marching in place with her butt up in the air
Oh the places you'll go says
Is she fixed? Cuz that just sounds like she is in heat.
Jaelithe says
Last night my cat Tora was on my nightstand and when I went to shoo her off (because this is a no no) she spooked and secreted this whitish clear fluid. I was so concerned something was seriously wrong I have been combing the internet this morning. I love your article and I’m grateful I came across it. She is always makes this motion as if she’s marking her territory when she kneads on blankets and it looks so weird but nothing comes out. At least now I know she is ok and I can stop worrying. Thanks again!
CC says
Thank you so much for posting this! My 10 yr old female has been waking me up at 3am for breakfast when I have always fed her at 6am. She will come and lay by my face to kick me awake. I must’ve scared her when I got up because she sprayed this balsamic vinegar looking liquid all over my face, arm and pillow. It reeks and I’m worried about pink eye, but at least I know what happened!
Kathryn says
My cat does this same thing! She is now 4 and this started when she was 1. We cuddle each night, like clock work. I hold her like a baby while she lightly kneads my neck and falls asleep. It’s the sweetest, most amazing experience and I’m blessed to have such a wonderful cat. However, occasionally, she will become so relaxed that she releases her anal glands. As soon as she does it she acts surprised and jumps to the end of the bed, cleaning her rear end and looking at me like “I can’t believe I did that”! It’s a wretched smell, like a combination of urine and feces, and it leaves an oily residue on my clothes/blanket. I have to immediately change the clothes/blankets. Thankfully it does not happen every night, but it is unpredictable and a quite bother when it does. The joy of cats! I still love her to pieces. ♥️
Tayah says
My cat sprays every time you lift her tail to get a bit of dried poop or groom her fur. It’s rather annoying and smelly but I think she does it to stop me from wanting to hang around back there 😂 she doesn’t seem happy when she does it. When she’s happy she drools
Mini says
I just adopted two kittens and the male began to secrete a small amount of clear liquid whenever he gets loved and cuddled. At first I had no idea what it was because it’s a clear liquid and it was a very small amount. It was the smell that left me puzzled, thinking they weren’t cleaning themselves well enough. My vet said that some cats do this when they are relaxed and happy. I’m hoping it doesn’t get worse as he gets older but it seems some cats continue doing this for life.
After reading some of the comments, I really hope people don’t surrender their cats for this. When you adopt a cat there comes a responsibility that includes caring for them even when things get challenging such as illness, etc.
Marie says
It’s now 2022
And I’m glad for an explanation
People say they only express anal glands when frightened
Nope when I stroke my cat she nearly all the time expresses her anal glands, it absolutely stinks and usually all over my blanket so I have to wash it, it’s put me off a little bit giving her strokes and loves sometimes xx
Victoria says
Yes. Have had a few cats do this ‘expression” when they are in heaven getting pets and then I smell this pimple puss kinda pungent smell. It is a marking. A secretion. I akin it to an orgasm minus the sexual part of it. Lol. Soooo nasty. But also for a few of my cats has been when they’re happy.
I did have my last cat have an impacted swollen infected anal gland and had no clue. She one day woke.up creeping up stairs in pain. Ended up in hospital to remove gland. Was bad. Had no clue. Poor thing … out of no where. First time I had ever known of these glands was in icu and hospital for 5 days.
Ruth says
Our 4 year old female cat does the stinky happy squirt when being petted. She doesn’t know it’s coming, and always looks surprised, before cleaning herself up. My husband and I try not to make a big deal of it and immediately wash whatever has been in the firing line (including us…).
She’s such a lovely cat. We got her from a rescue when she was 9 months old and think that was probably the reason she ended up there. How anyone could throw our lovely cat out onto the streets is beyond us.
There needs to be more understanding that this is normal behaviour for some cats. I mentiomed it to our vet when she went for her check up once and the vet hadn’t heard of this before.
M - says
My 4-year-old cat has just begun “oozing” from his butt. Now that I’ve read this article (and the comments) I believe it’s anal glad secretions. This all started about 3 months after we brought home a 4-month-old kitten as a companion for him. Although they chase each other and generally play well together, Ramses is the dominant one – which is what I wanted from the git-go. The kit is confident but mellow when Ramses asserts his dominance. Also something I wanted to happen. However, I think this leakage might be Ramses’ way of scent-marking his territory now that Brandon is getting older.
William Viveen says
Lots of comments but no cure. Found 6 month old tabby hanging around. No owners to be found. The most delightful personality. Unfixed 6 month male. Took him to vet found to be in perfect health and scheduled neutering.
Was planning to keep him. Inside he chases our 7 year old female. Then we noticed when excited or petted expelled his anal glands. Every day. Ruining our furniture.
$500 later plus a generous donation to the local humane society we broke our hearts and gave him up.