GotoAID Cats - Abscesses

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Abscesses

An abscess is a localized area of infection that can occur anywhere on the body. Cats commonly get skin abscesses from bite wounds of other cats and cats. Cat fight abscesses occur commonly on the head, ears, and base of the tail. The area is usually red, swollen, and warm to touch.

Symptoms

Elevated Temperature	Discharge (if abscess has ruptured)
Swelling	Break in Skin
Oozing	Reddening

Steps

Only attempt the following procedures if you can safely handle your cat without being bitten

If the abscess is soft and swollen and hasn't started to drain yet then soak a washcloth in hot water, wring it out and place it on top of swollen tissue for 5 minutes on and 5 minutes off 2-5 times a day

Abscesses can be painful so you will have to have a second person grasp the cat by the scruff with one hand and by the hind feet with the other and gently hold her down on a table.

Once the abscess starts to drain the fur will get wet and smelly so use electric clippers to cut away the fur around the abscess leaving a 1 inch border all the way around the abscess

Wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild dish soap like Dove to get the pus out of the fur

If the fur is matted with pus take a wet warm washcloth and hold it on the area for 10-15 minutes to soften the crust then wash with soap and rinse gently

Seek veterinary attention as most abscesses will require antibiotics to prevent further infection

Warnings

Hot packs should never be hotter than can be comfortably applied to your own skin

Tips

Try to keep the affected area clean, dry, free of fur, & uncovered (if possible) to promote faster healing.

To avoid fur contaminating the wound during clipping, apply a water based lubricant (KY Jelly) and then rinse after clipping

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