How serious can a cat bite infection be?
Cat bites with infections can become not only painful, but also red or discolored, and swollen. If left untreated, cat bite infections can spread to other parts of the body, causing a condition called septicemia (blood poisoning), which requires hospitalization. In rare cases, these infections can be fatal.
How long does an infected cat bite take to heal?
They are highly likely to become infected. Most wounds heal within 10 days. But an infection can occur even with proper treatment. So be sure to check the wound daily for signs of infection (see below).
What should I do if my cat got a bite on his leg?
If the leg was bitten, it is usually painful and the cat may limp. Some cats may just be lethargic and have a fever. Many cats will excessively groom the injured area. What should I do if my cat gets an abscess or infected bite wound? You should immediately take your cat to your veterinarian.
What causes a cat to get a bite wound?
Causes of Bite Wounds in Cats. A bite wound typically occurs as a result of a fight or rough play between two cats or your cat and another animal. Cats’ teeth are naturally sharp and are meant to tear easily into flesh.
What are the symptoms of a cat bite abscess?
Symptoms of an abscess include: Swelling, redness and heat in the area Wounds (usually two small punctures, or a large wound if the abscess has opened up) Floppy tail – if the tail has been bitten Limping – your cat may even not want to put the leg down at all
Where are the most common bites on cats?
Cat bite abscesses are most common on the tail, top of the head, legs, face and neck. Although it’s rare, cat bites and scratches can also put your cat at risk of diseases such as FeLV/FIV. Contact your vet for advice if you think your cat has an abscess.
What are the signs of a cat bite infection?
Typical signs of infection include: Cat saliva carries a lot of bacteria that may easily infect a bite wound. Even cat scratches may get infected. If the injury is a puncture wound, in case of an infection you will notice pus and a foul odor. If the infection is not a puncture wound, it may spread in the nearby tissues and cause cellulitis.
If the leg was bitten, it is usually painful and the cat may limp. Some cats may just be lethargic and have a fever. Many cats will excessively groom the injured area. What should I do if my cat gets an abscess or infected bite wound? You should immediately take your cat to your veterinarian.
Causes of Bite Wounds in Cats. A bite wound typically occurs as a result of a fight or rough play between two cats or your cat and another animal. Cats’ teeth are naturally sharp and are meant to tear easily into flesh.
How can you tell if a cat has a fight wound?
Signs of Wound Infection. Very often, cat fight wounds get infected. Typical signs of infection include: Cat saliva carries a lot of bacteria that may easily infect a bite wound. Even cat scratches may get infected. If the injury is a puncture wound, in case of an infection you will notice pus and a foul odor.
