You posted in the Geriatric forum but we can answer here.
I think this is unusual. Assuming the cat was normal before, this is a more severe reaction to a normal anal gland expression than we would expect.
If the cat had infected anal glands, or another peri-anal medical problem, then the expression may have caused the area to be much more painful.
For now use warm compresses to help her feel better. I think this can wait until Monday.
I would get her back to see this veterinarian and explain the situation. I am sure they want to examine more closely. It is likely there is something else going on as a simple expression of the glands should not cause this much pain and tissue reaction.
I am glad to hear that your kitty is doing better and that Dr. Humphries was able to help.
I always use the "internal" method for expressing anal glands in cats. Many have very thick secretion that I would not be able to express without doing it that way. I do have small fingers, which helps. I may be in the minority here because many of my clients say that their cat hasn't had that done before. I think anal sac filling is a problem that is overlooked often in cats and can cause discomfort and constipation.
I usually warn my clients that the cat may be just as uncomfortable or more so after the anal sac expression for a day or two. If the cat seems very uncomfortable when I express the glands, I will give an anti-inflammatory injection. You might ask your veterinarian about that the next time your cat needs the procedure done.
You are welcome. I am glad she is better.
I've never used the "internal" method for expressing anal glands in cats. I reserve that for big dogs.
Good Luck.
Thanks so much for the advice. I was so worried; I'd never seen her so miserable! She's doing much better today, eating like normal, and is almost acting like herself, so you were right that it could wait. I think I may be able to resolve this with a call to the vet (they're closed today) instead of a visit... just so they can make note of her extreme reaction. If she ever needs that done again, I think I'll request an external expression of the glands vs. internal... I'm assuming the procedure irritated nerves or something, but we'll see what they say when I call tomorrow.
Thanks again for the advice. It's a blessing to be able to reach someone when I'm worried sick and can't find an answer with my own research and don't know where to turn.