Cat Abscess Treatment Cost & Other FAQs

Treatment for a cat’s anal gland abscesses may come at a cost, but it’s important to get your kitty the care they need. Keep reading to learn more about the costs, causes, and symptoms of anal gland abscesses in cats, as well as how pet insurance may be able to help. 

How Much Does Cat Anus Gland Abscess Treatment Cost?

Some estimates place the cost of treating abscesses in cats anywhere from $300 – $2,000. However, prices can vary due to factors like the type of abscess, how far along your cat’s abscess is, and the kind of the treatment they’ll need.¹

Depending on the severity of the abscess, some of the specific costs on your vet bill might include:¹

• Examination: $30 – $100
• Lab and blood tests: $80 – $200
• Medications: $10 – $70
• Abscess draining or lancing: $100 – $800
• Surgical removal: $300 – $2,000

Because your cat’s anal gland abscess is unique, the exact treatment your vet recommends may vary. They might manually express an impacted glad, prescribe antibiotics to combat an infection, and some will take a sample of the pus to decide on the right type of antibiotics to give.^2,3

Your vet may also prescribe pain medication to help ease your cat’s discomfort. And if your cat’s anal gland abscess has ruptured, your vet may recommend wound care to help the cat heal, which may involve ongoing vet visits.²

In rare cases, if your cat is prone to chronic anal gland issues, the vet may recommend surgery to remove the glands.²

What Causes Anal Gland Abscesses in Cats?

Anal gland abscesses may develop when bacteria infect your cat’s anal glands — two small sacs located near their anus.^2,3 Your cat usually releases, or expresses, this liquid contained in these glands when having a bowel movement.²

Sometimes, however, cats’ anal glands can become infected. For example, bacteria from feces may inflame or irritate the ducts that drain the liquid. This may cause blockages, making it difficult for the sac to empty. Fluid may build up and abscesses may form. The anal glands and the abscesses themselves may swell and even rupture, which can be very uncomfortable.²

Fortunately, abscesses can be prevented and treated.

How Can I Prevent Anal Gland Abscesses in Cats?

There are several ways pet parents can work to prevent anal sac disease in cats that may lead to abscesses. For example, there are links between nutrition, obesity, and anal gland disorders. Feeding your cat a healthy, fiber-rich diet and ensuring they exercise regularly may help prevent problems from developing.²

If your cat already has anal gland issues, your vet may be able to regularly express their anal glands, helping them drain normally. This procedure can help prevent infections and abscesses.² Still, even if you’re doing everything you can to prevent abscesses, it never hurts to keep an eye on your cat's health and watch for possible symptoms.

How Do I Know if My Cat Has an Anal Gland Abscess?

Your cat can show a range of symptoms when experiencing an anal sac disorder, such as an abscess. These include:²

• Redness or swelling of the anal area
• Hard swellings on either or both sides of the anus
• Chewing, biting, or licking at their anus or tail
• Pulling hair from their back end or tail
• Dragging their butt on the ground (scooting)
• A draining or oozing wound near the anus (often accompanied by a foul smell)³
• Losing hair around their tail or belly from excessive grooming
• Discomfort or pain while sitting or having bowel movements
• Constipation

Many cats are good at hiding pain, so pay close attention to your feline companion’s behavior for subtle changes. For example, if your cat starts missing meals, vomiting, or being more lethargic, it could be a good time for a vet visit.^2,3 The good news is if you have cat insurance, your policy may reimburse you for many of the costs of abscess treatment.

Cat Insurance May Help Cover Anal Gland Abscess Costs

Pet insurance from MetLife Pet can be a great way to plan for unexpected problems, like anal gland abscesses. For example, when Brody, a Bengal cat from California, needed a $2,600 surgery for anal gland issues, his coverage reimbursed his family $2,350 of the cost.⁴ Just like Brody and his family, you can get the care you need while offsetting the cost of vet bills. Why wait? Get a free quote from MetLife Pet today.