Anal Furunculosis
In Cats & Dogs
Anal furunculosis is primarily a condition seen in dogs and some breeds are more prone to it. Burst anal glands due to abscesses are common and are routinely dealt with by the majority of vets.
However, some dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd, are prone to an immune-mediated form of the disease. When the body mistakenly attacks its own cells in this way, it can result in extensive draining sinus tracts forming around the bottom. This can be challenging to treat and a dermatologist can help.
Draining sinus tracts elsewhere on the body in both cats and dogs can present a number of challenges. An organised and thorough method can help get the correct diagnosis for your pet, which is critical for successful treatment.
What to Expect at
YOUR CONSULTATION
What to Expect at
Your Consultation
1
HISTORY REVIEW
Detailed history and review of past treatments
2
EXAMINATION
Full dermatological and ear examination
3
TESTING
Diagnostic testing including video-otoscopy
4
TREATMENT PLAN
Provided with a tailored treatment plan based on your individual pet’s needs
WHAT WE
TREAT
WHAT WE
TREAT
Immune-mediated anal furunculosis requires an accurate diagnosis and knowledge of treatments for immune-mediated disease. We recommend Phovia® bioluminescence treatment, which can help speed recovery.
Draining sinus tracts need a structured approach including cytology, blood tests, biopsies for histology and special bacterial and fungal cultures and stains. Occasionally ultrasound and X-rays will be required.
We’ll discuss what testing methods are right for your pet during your consultation. The majority of anal furunculosis cases are treatable but occasionally this condition cannot be cured.
WHAT WE
TREAT
WHAT WE
We treat a wide range of skin conditions. Below is a list of different conditions, which gives an idea of the range of conditions we see.
Allergic Skin Diseases
Atopic dermatitis
(environmental allergies)
Flea allergy dermatitis
Food allergies/intolerances
Infections (Chronic/Recurrent)
Bacterial skin infections (pyoderma)
Yeast infections
Ringworm (especially in cats)
Autoimmune & Immune-Mediated Conditions
Pemphigus complex
Lupus diseases
Ulcerative diseases
Erythema multiforme
Vasculitis
Nodules and lumps with or without draining sinus tracts
Scaling disorders
Sebaceous adenitis
Epitheliotropic lymphoma
Crusting disorders
Zinc-responsive dermatosis
Metabolic epidermal necrosis
Chronic Skin Issues
Itchy or inflamed paws (pododermatitis)
Hair loss (alopecia) - Alopecia X, Colour dilution alopecia
Anal furunculosis
Pigmentary skin disorders
Hypopigmentation - Vitiligo, Uveodermatological syndrome
Hyperpigmentation - Post-inflammatory, Hypothyroidism
TREAT
WHAT WE
TREAT
WHAT WE
TREAT
We treat a wide range of skin conditions. Below is a list of different conditions, which gives an idea of the range of conditions we see.
Allergic Skin Diseases
-
Atopic dermatitis
-
(environmental allergies)
-
Flea allergy dermatitis
-
Food allergies/intolerances
Infections (Chronic/Recurrent)
-
Bacterial skin infections (pyoderma)
-
Yeast infections
-
Ringworm (especially in cats)
Autoimmune & Immune-Mediated Conditions
-
Pemphigus complex
-
Lupus diseases
Ulcerative diseases
-
Erythema multiforme
-
Vasculitis
Nodules and lumps with or without draining sinus tracts
Scaling disorders
-
Sebaceous adenitis
-
Epitheliotropic lymphoma
Crusting disorders
-
Zinc-responsive dermatosis
-
Metabolic epidermal necrosis
Chronic Skin Issues
-
Itchy or inflamed paws (pododermatitis)
-
Hair loss (alopecia) - Alopecia X, Colour dilution alopecia
-
Anal furunculosis
Pigmentary skin disorders
-
Hypopigmentation - Vitiligo, Uveodermatological syndrome
-
Hyperpigmentation - Post-inflammatory, Hypothyroidism
WHO DO WE Care For
We can care for any dog or cat with open sores and draining or oozing tracts on the skin. If your pet is suffering from these symptoms, book an appointment with us. We can find the right treatment to help resolve any issues with your pet’s sinus tracts.
FREQUENTLY
AskeD Questions
rELATED
Services
EAR DISEASE
ALLERGY TESTING
OTHER SKIN CONDITIONS
ALLERGY TESTING
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
"Simon has been our vet for over 10 years, so when we’ve encountered skin issues with our dogs we’ve been lucky to benefit from his in-depth, and enthusiastic expertise! A poorly pet is always a worry, but it’s easy to trust Simon as he bothers to take time to talk us through the problem, and importantly, the treatment options. Being part of that decision is really important to us.”
Genevieve Klasinski
Owner of Woody the Golden Retriever
"Henry has had severe allergies for many years now, and finding someone who truly understands and can manage his problems has made all the difference. Simon is kind, patient, and incredibly thorough. He takes time to explain everything and has worked with us to find a treatment plan that has finally brought Henry some relief. With Simon’s knowledge it gives us confidence and peace of mind that Henry is getting the best treatment”
Anna Green
Owner of Henry the Cockerpoo
"We feel really lucky to have found Simon. He successfully diagnosed our little dog (Candy) with multiple allergies - lots of other vets we had seen didn’t have the expertise to do this. This meant he was able to tailor her treatment to her allergies and all her symptoms have been well controlled for years now. Simon is always up to date with advances in veterinary science and involves us in decisions about Candy’s treatment. He has helped us manage her occasional flare-ups at home and to know when she needs professional help. He is just amazing and I can’t recommend him highly enough.”
Sheila Holland
Owner of Candy the Cavachon