Aloe Vera for Treating Cat Abscesses

Cats are subject to a variety of external conditions, such as abscesses. These skin problems can occur for any number of reasons, but are more likely to occur in cats that live outdoors, such as farm cats, as they are exposed to sharp equipment, the elements and other cats. Treat abscesses on cats as quickly as possible using effective topical treatments, such as aloe vera gel.

  1. Aloe Vera Defined

    • The aloe vera plant is a type of green succulent that has been used for thousands of years as a treatment for internal and external health issues and conditions. It is native to tropical and subtropical locations including Latin America, South Africa and the Caribbean. Aloe vera is frequently used to treat burns and minor cuts, as it contains active compounds that reduce inflammation and pain and quicken healing. There is also evidence that aloe vera helps treat other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and genital herpes. It may also help those with type 2 diabetes, as it may lower blood sugar levels. Aloe vera has also been used to help animals, including cats, horses and dogs.

    Reasons for Abscesses in Cats

    • As with most mammals, cats can develop skin irritations or accidentally cut themselves from rough play outdoors or fights with other cats. Sometimes cuts and skin irritations can worsen or become infected, which results in abscesses. Abscesses on cats can occur anywhere on the body and can potentially cause further complications if the bacteria in the abscess infects the blood. It is therefore essential to treat abscesses as quickly as possible.

    Aloe Vera for Abscesses

    • Use aloe vera to clean and disinfect an abscess on your feline. Purchase pure aloe vera gel or juice from your local health store, or cut a piece of the plant and squeeze out the pulp. Do not use lotions or other moisturizers that contain aloe vera to clean an abscess, as they can feature additional ingredients such as parbens and fragrance, which may harm your pet. Aloe vera may be used to heal abscesses that have burst as well as those that have not yet drained. Apply aloe vera directly on the abscess with a cotton ball or clean rag and allow it to soak in as much as possible. Use one or two thoroughly soaked aloe vera cotton balls at a time to treat the abscess. Do this two or three times daily until the abscess has healed.

    Other Uses for Aloe Vera

    • Use aloe vera to clean any burn or scratch wounds your cat may have, which will also help prevent such wounds from turning into abscesses. There is evidence aloe vera may help cats and other house pets who suffer from arthritis. You can also add 1/2 ml to 1 ml of aloe vera gel or juice to your cat's food once or twice daily to promote wellness.