Monday 18 January 2021

Sebaceous Glands In Cats And Scent Marking

 


Cats have 2 main types of glands in the skin--sweat glands and sebaceous glands. The sebaceous glands are closely associated with the hair follicles on the skin. These glands produce an oily secretion called the sebum which functions to make the hair waterproof and help promote skin suppleness. There are also larger sebaceous glands on the chin, eyelids, lips, prepuce, scrotum, and the top surface of the base of the tail. These larger glands are responsible for producing the cat’s signature scent which is important in scent marking. That’s why you see cats repeatedly rubbing their chin, lips, forehead, and base of the tail to mark certain objects. You may have noticed black-brown greasy patches on objects or surfaces where your cat keeps on rubbing his body. You may also notice your kitty rubbing against you to “mark” you.

Sudden changes in your pet’s behavior should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian care Leonardtown, MD.

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