TL;DR: Rectal prolapse is a high-priority emergency where rectal tissue protrudes from the anus and requires immediate veterinary care. Do not attempt to push the tissue back in yourself, as this can cause permanent damage or internal tearing.
What is a rectal prolapse and what does it look like?
Rectal prolapse occurs when one or more layers of the rectum protrude through the anal opening. This typically appears as a cylindrical, tube-like mass of red or pink tissue. It is most often caused by excessive straining, which can result from severe constipation, diarrhea, or urinary tract issues.
Is a rectal prolapse considered a veterinary emergency?
- Urgency Level: High. This is an immediate veterinary emergency.
- When rectal tissue remains outside the body, it quickly loses moisture and blood supply.
- Without rapid treatment, the tissue can become necrotic (die) or severely infected.
- Do not attempt to push the tissue back in yourself, as you may cause internal tearing or permanent damage to the sphincter muscle.
How does taking a photo of the prolapse help with veterinary triage?
- Taking a clear photo of the protrusion while preparing for transport is vital.
- Sharing this photo with your veterinarian allows them to assess the severity, color, and size of the prolapse instantly.
- Photos help the medical team prepare the necessary surgical or sedative tools before you arrive, saving precious time for your pet.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
For a cat presenting with red tissue protruding from the rectum, prompt treatment includes manual reduction of viable prolapsed tissue to its proper anatomic location, or amputation if the segment is necrotic. Before reduction, warm saline lavage and lubrication with a water-soluble gel should be applied to the prolapsed tissue; alternatively, topical application of hypertonic sugar solution (50% dextrose or 70% mannitol) may relieve edematous mucosa. Following reduction, placement of a loose, anal purse-string suture for 5-7 days is indicated, and straining may be prevented by applying a topical anesthetic (1% dibucaine ointment) or by administering a narcotic epidural injection. Postoperatively, a moistened diet and a fecal softener (e.g., dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate) are recommended; diarrhea after surgery may require treatment. If the rectal tissue is viable but not amenable to manual reduction, celiotomy followed by colopexy is indicated to prevent recurrence.
Chapter: Surgery, Gastroenterology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 190)