What do you need to know about cat wound healing?
Cat wound healing stages are similar to what we see in dogs or ourselves. The beginning of each step is strictly reliant on completion of the previous one. Length and duration of different phases rely on several factors such as the feline’s health and nutrition and the wound’s infection and contamination status.
Why does my cat have a wound on her back?
Fleas: these tiny insects jump from host to host and bite the skin to feed on blood. This process causes itching and it is common to result in wounds or alopecia. The lumbosacral area of the small of the back and neck are most commonly affected.
Can a fresh cut on a cat become infected?
Many cuts (lacerations), bruises (contusions), and scrapes (abrasions) are not life threatening and will heal with little treatment. Other wounds can be severe enough to require sutures and more intense emergency care. Fresh wounds will usually show some or all of the following: If a wound is not seen when it is fresh, it can become infected.
What happens if a cat licks a wound?
If your feline friend reaches the wound and licks it it will delay the process of healing as its tongue will scrape the new skin. If you put a collar on it you will avoid it reaching the wound and it will recover without problems.
How can I tell if my cat’s wound is infected?
If a wound is not seen when it is fresh, it can become infected. In addition to swelling and tenderness, you may observe the following: Abscesses (i.e., an accumulation of pus under the skin) and the resulting hole in the skin when the abscess break open and drain Signs of a fever (e.g., lethargy and ears that feel hot to the touch)
What causes a cat bite to become an abscess?
3-Lifting of the underlying tissues and abscess formation with hair loss around the wound (pus accumulation in pockets these layers create starts on day 1 but progresses rapidly—or not—depending on the location and type of bacteria involved). The majority of puncture wounds and abscesses in cats are caused by other cats.
When to release a cat with a wound?
Your veterinarian will give your cat medication for infection and possibly for pain, which you will need to continue giving at home. Most cats are released within 24 hours of being admitted. The most important thing you can do once your cat is home is to provide good nursing care. Fortunately this is usually for only 1 to 2 weeks.
Many cuts (lacerations), bruises (contusions), and scrapes (abrasions) are not life threatening and will heal with little treatment. Other wounds can be severe enough to require sutures and more intense emergency care. Fresh wounds will usually show some or all of the following: If a wound is not seen when it is fresh, it can become infected.
