Rectal Prolapse

What Is a Rectal Prolapse?

A rectal prolapse happens when one or more layers of the rectum, the last part of the large intestine, push out through the anus. It looks like a red or pink, moist, tube-shaped mass sticking out from under the tail. A partial prolapse involves only the inner lining and may look like a small donut, while a complete prolapse involves the full thickness of the rectal wall.

Common Causes

• Straining from diarrhea: especially in puppies and kittens with parvovirus or intestinal parasites; see dog diarrhea and cat diarrhea
• Constipation: long-term straining; see dog constipation and cat constipation
• Straining to urinate or give birth: bladder stones, prostate problems or difficult labor; see dystocia
• Weak tissue: perineal hernia or rectal tumors in older pets
• Breed factors: Manx cats can be prone because of spinal and tail differences

How to Tell It Apart

Not every mass at the back end is a rectal prolapse. Swollen anal glands, a protruding vaginal fold in females, tumors and a telescoped intestine (intussusception) can look similar. Your vet can tell the difference by gently passing a probe alongside the mass; this matters because intussusception needs abdominal surgery.

First Aid on the Way to the Vet

• Cover the tissue with a clean cloth soaked in warm water or saline
• Use a cone or pet-safe bodysuit to prevent licking and biting
• Do not try to push it back in yourself or apply creams

Treatment

• Reduction: under sedation the vet shrinks the swelling, often with sugar or lubricant, and gently returns the tissue
• Purse-string suture: a temporary stitch around the anus keeps it in place for a few days while still letting soft stool pass
• Treat the cause: deworming, treating infection or diarrhea, stool softeners and pain relief are key to stopping it from coming back
• Surgery: damaged tissue may need to be removed, and repeated prolapses may need the colon anchored inside the abdomen

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a rectal prolapse go back in by itself?
A small partial prolapse that appears only while straining sometimes retracts, but it still needs a vet check because it often returns.

Is a rectal prolapse common in puppies?
Yes. Young puppies and kittens with heavy worm burdens or severe diarrhea are the most common patients.

How long does recovery take?
Most pets recover within one to two weeks once the underlying cause is controlled and any stitch is removed.

If you see a red mass protruding from under your pet’s tail, treat it as urgent. Find a veterinary clinic near you for an exam.