Why does my cat keep scooting?

A. Scooting — dragging the anus along the ground — looks silly, but isn't always a sign of problems, especially if your cat does it only now and then, according to "Prevention's Symptom Solver for Dogs & Cats" edited by Matthew Hoffman. Dogs and cats will sometimes scoot to clean themselves or relieve temporary irritation.

When it is a problem, it's an indicator of itching, which can be caused by sores, tumors, dermatitis, tapeworms and other parasites, veterinarians say.
While your cat may have checked out fine before, he could have picked up tapeworms on a recent prowl. A closer inspection will show small white specks in the stool or around the anus. Tapeworms, which are transmitted by fleas, require treatment by a vet. That usually includes oral and possibly topical medications along with a comprehensive flea eradication program.

source:www.southbendtribune.com