My cat has black dots near his anus. Is it bad hygiene or parasites?

If you could re-post with some photographs of the affected area, it might help us advise you a little more effectively. If the area looks raw, like red and inflammed, Felix may be experiencing some discomfort or pain in or around that region. Parasitic infestation or problems with the anal glands could definitely make a cat want to continue to lick in that area repeatedly. As far as the black dots surrounding the area, I would really need to see a picture of this to give you a better idea of what it may be. Typically repeated licking of an area wouldn't cause such a reaction. If the area is very raw though, you should definitely obtain a cone / collar for Felix to prevent any further self-induced trauma, and he should visit with a vet to obtain some antibiotics and a physical exam. Hope this makes sense.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Maty. Sometimes anal gland material and can dry up and be present near the gland opening at the anus. The red spot in your final picture appears to be separate from the anus though. In this case, an anal gland abscess or infection could be the cause. This is a painful condition and can cause difficulty defecating. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian to determine if treatment is necessary. I hope this information helps!

If Mila has abnormal stool quality or if she is overweight then it could be a medical issue. Most cats are very clean and groom themselves frequently. However, not all cats are this way and it could be a behavioral thing. If she is overweight then she may not be able to reach to keep clean. There is a food company called Royal Canin that tends to make pets have good stool quality and you may try this diet. If she has a bad stool quality, take her to the vet to see if anything should be done. I hope this helps!

It possible you are seeing the opening of the anal glands with some waxy exudate built up in the opening. Cats will generally keep themselves clean but some are better than others. Not all cats require treatment for anal glands but you want want to call your veterinarian and ask. Also, you may be able to keep the area clean by soaking it with a warm wet cotton ball or a gentle cleaning once a day. I hope this helps.

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your question. Based on the picture, I see nothing concerning other than a darker colored area. If you are seeing diarrhea, worms, a rash, etc. I would recommend having this looked at by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made.

Hi, thank you for using PetCoach. Those black dots are blackheads (clogged pores). It is not typically a serious problem. It is not related to a flea problem. Feline blackheads often result when cats don't groom themselves properly but it could also be from overactive oil glands or certain yeast or bacterial infections. Stress and food allergies can also contribute to this issue. You can try these medicated wipes on the affected area once a day. If after about 7-10 days there is not much improvement then you should have Dino examined by your vet. ( https://www.amazon.sg/Douxo-30-Count-Chlorhexidine-Pads/dp/B00G3D8JL0 ) Hope this helps. Best wishes!

Those are the openings to the anal glands. Sometimes some dried anal gland material can accumulate at the opening. If Poopsie is not scooting or licking excessively I think you can wait to see your vet for an appointment.