Normally, cats don't need their glands expressed, because the sphincter muscles contract during defecation, squeezing the glands and expelling the fluid. However, if a cat has consistently loose stools, or if swelling appears in the area, the owner should help clean the glands. 
Cats generally do not need their glands expressed.
Normally, cats don't need their glands expressed. When a cat defecates, the sphincter muscles contract, squeezing the glands and expelling the fluid. However, if a cat has consistently loose stools or swelling in the area, the owner needs to clean the glands. Leaving the gland fluid untreated can lead to inflammation and swelling.Introduction to glands
The glands are a pair of pear-shaped glands, also known as sacs, located on the sides of a cat, approximately at the four o'clock and eight o'clock positions, one on each side with an opening. Normal glandular fluid is a light or pale brown liquid. If left untreated for a long time, it may turn into a brown or even black paste, emitting a foul odor.Functions of glands
1. It releases glandular fluid for lubrication, helping cats defecate smoothly.2. The glands contain abundant pheromones, which serve as identification tools and can also be used to mark territory.
3. When a cat is frightened or stressed, its sphincter muscles contract and glandular fluid is released, emitting a foul odor to drive away enemies.
Gland cleaning methods
Lift the cat's tail upwards to make it protrude. Place your thumb and forefinger at the four and eight o'clock positions on either side to locate the two firm glands. Then, gently squeeze from the inside out, gradually increasing the pressure, until the glands are emptied. Do not squeeze too hard to avoid damaging the glands and causing inflammation.
