Some puppies and kittens are born with a complete intestinal tract but no anal opening. Generally, this is the result of a congenital deformity which prevents the normal deterioration of the anal membrane present in the fetus.

What are the symptoms?

A puppy with an imperforate anus will be unable to defecate. A bulge in the skin may be present where the anus should be.

What are the risks?

A puppy with an imperforate anus will die within a few days of birth unless treatment begins at once.

What is the management?

Surgery is required to create the anal opening. Most puppies do well if the problem is identified at birth and surgical intervention is done without delay.

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