My cat has an Abscess

Cats can be very susceptible to abscesses, especially when they have been in a fight and sustained scratches or bites. At its core, an abscess is the collection of pus in a localised area anywhere in the body and it is usually caracterised by a painful hot swelling under the skin which grows bigger over time and then bursts when ripe. The release of the pus with blood bring relief from pain. As well as the painful lump the cat may appear off-colour, the cat with an abscess may refuse food and it may have a higher temperature than usual.

Treatment for a cat with an abscess

If you suspect your cat of having an abcess the cat shuld be seen by a vet who would typically prescribe a course of antibiotics to kill of the infection. It may also be nescessary to have the abscess lanced under general anaesthetic so the animal should not be given food or water prior to treatment. In some cases you will be advised to soak the abcess with hot water containing epsom salts or antiseptic solutions and apply hot dressings until it bursts. Bathing upto several times a day is required and the wound should be kept open until all the pus has drained out to prevent a reoccurance of the infection and abscess. Your vetinary surgeon can advise you further on such matters and under no circumstances should you start operating on your cat without the proper advice.