Rectal prolapse in kittens
Rectal prolapse occurs when part of the rectal wall protrudes through the anus. A red or pink tube-like mass becomes visible, either continuously or only during straining. It affects mainly young kittens that strain heavily, usually due to...
What is it?
Rectal prolapse occurs when part of the rectal wall protrudes through the anus. A red or pink tube-like mass becomes visible, either continuously or only during straining.
It affects mainly young kittens that strain heavily, usually due to severe diarrhoea or intestinal parasites.
Prolapse is a complication that must be treated, but the underlying cause of the kitten's straining must also be found and treated, or the prolapse will recur.
Key point
A red mass protruding from the anus should be examined by a veterinarian the same day: the longer it remains exposed, the more damaged it becomes.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
A red or pink tube-like mass protruding from the centre of the anus.
Repeated straining to defecate, often accompanied by diarrhoea.
The kitten licks the area persistently.
Pain, discomfort, and the kitten remaining in a crouched position.
If the protruded tissue becomes dark, black, or dry, it is suffering damage and urgent treatment is needed.
Differential diagnosis: a swelling or wound on the side of the anus suggests anal sac disease; in an older cat, a protruding mass may be a polyp or tumour.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
Repeated and forceful straining, most often related to:
severe diarrhoea;
intestinal parasites, roundworms, coccidia, or tritrichomonads;
straining to urinate, urinary obstruction, or bladder inflammation;
more rarely, constipation or an obstruction within the rectum.
Kitten or young cat.
Severe diarrhoea, intestinal parasites.
Tritrichomoniasis, for which prolapse is a recognised complication.
Urinary straining in males.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
The veterinarian examines the mass to confirm it is truly the rectum and not another structure: a simple examination allows him to distinguish a prolapse from an intestinal intussusception, a more serious condition where the intestine has folded on itself.
He assesses the condition of the mucosa: pink and moist, or damaged, dark and dry.
He checks that the kitten is urinating normally.
A stool analysis looks for parasites, a common cause.
Additional tests, including ultrasound, are performed if intussusception or another cause is suspected.
Treatment
When the mucosa is healthy, the veterinarian returns it to its place under anesthesia, and usually places a temporary stitch around the anus to prevent it from coming out again for a few days.
When the protruding part is too damaged, surgery is necessary to remove it.
If recurrence occurs, a procedure that anchors the colon inside the abdomen may be offered.
Treating the underlying cause is essential: appropriate dewormer or antiparasitic medication, treatment of diarrhea, management of a urinary problem.
Soft stools and pain relief limit straining during healing.
Do not attempt any manipulation yourself: the mucosa is fragile and clumsy handling will damage it.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
Deworm kittens regularly according to your veterinarian's advice.
Have any diarrhea in a kitten treated promptly, especially if it persists or is accompanied by straining.
Have a kitten examined if it strains heavily in the litter box, whether passing stool or urine.
Possible complications
Damage to the protruding mucosa, which can become dry, infected, and die if treatment is delayed.
Recurrence if the underlying cause is not treated.
Narrowing of the rectum after major surgery.
Unrecognized intestinal intussusception, more serious than simple prolapse.
When to see a veterinarian
Something red is protruding from your kitten's anus: seek consultation the same day.
The mass becomes dark, black, or dry, or your kitten is lethargic: seek urgent care.
In a male, straining in the litter box without passing anything may indicate urinary obstruction: seek urgent care.
The prolapse reappears after being treated.
Your kitten has severe diarrhea or worms and strains heavily.
Prognosis
With prompt treatment and addressing the underlying cause, rectal prolapse in kittens usually heals well. The outlook is more guarded when the rectal lining is severely damaged, when surgical removal is needed, or when the underlying cause persists.
Frequently asked questions
Prolapse or anal gland problem: how to tell the difference?
In a prolapse, a red mass protrudes from the center, through the anus itself. In an anal sac condition, the swelling or wound is located on the side of the anus.
Can I put it back in place myself?
No. The mucous membrane is fragile, the procedure is painful and is performed under anesthesia. The veterinarian must also check that it is not an intestinal intussusception, which is more serious.
Why does the veterinarian treat worms or diarrhea as well?
Because prolapse is the consequence of straining. If the underlying cause is not treated, the kitten continues to strain and the prolapse recurs.
My male kitten is also straining to urinate, is this related?
It is possible: straining to urinate can cause prolapse. A male that strains without producing urine must be seen urgently.
References
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 10 October 2026
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