by Jen
(Dallas, Tx)

I recently saved a 5 year old male cat from being taken to a shelter. I have never had a cat before, so I want to know if this is normal. After he does his business in his litter box, he has a tendency to drag his bottom across the carpet. I don't see blood or worms or anything that would cause alarm, but of course I don't like it! Is there anything to stop it from happening?

Thanks!

Jen


Hi, Jen,

A cat usually drags his bottom for one of three reasons:

(1) due to anal sac problems (infection, too full, ruptured, etc.)

(2) because they have tapeworm

(3) due to a feeling, real or imagined, that they are soiled there after having a bowel movement. They are trying to "clean" their rear ends by dragging them on something. This occurs often in older cats who might have constipation issues and a bit of feces is left "hanging" from the anus. Diarrhea can also lead to this.

This can also occur in overweight cats who simply can't easily reach to clean their rear ends due to their weight.

Whatever the cause, it is not normal and indicates there is a problem in some way and he needs to see a vet.

Thank you for writing,
Dr. Neely