Cat Abscesses and Survival

Cat abscesses are wounds that a bite from another cat or animal causes. As you might expect, outdoor cats are far more susceptible to abscesses than indoor cats. Bacteria from the other animal's mouth and teeth causes infection, in turn causing the abscess to form. The abscess itself is actually the cat's body's response to bacteria. The presence of bacteria is what makes abscesses dangerous. If not treated properly, bacteria can enter the bloodstream.

  1. Veterinary Treatment of Abscesses

    • Your veterinarian will need to drain, flush and clean the wound. The vet will also test a swab of the infected area to determine what kind of bacteria is present. Additionally, the vet will perform a standard blood test to determine whether the bacteria has entered the bloodstream. The vet will then prescribe the appropriate treatment plan.

    Home Care for Cat Abscesses

    • Be sure to give your cat all of the antibiotics that your veterinarian prescribes. If your cat has a thyroid issue such as hypothyroidism, endocrine disease or Cushing's disease, then it may have trouble healing due to problems with how the cat's body responds to inflammation. Ointments and shampoos are available that can help treat the skin. Lack of zinc and other vitamins could cause slow healing. Some people have found all-herbal supplements effective in feline healing. Consult your vet before giving your cat anything or treating it with any over-the-counter medication.

    Cat Abscesses and Survivability

    • If the abscess is treated promptly and professionally, then survivability is high. If it is not, then the abscess can rupture and a severe infection can develop. Infection can also develop in deep tissue and even move into the bloodstream, if a vet doesn't treat the condition promptly. Obviously, survivability in these cases is lower.

    Prevention

    • Preventing abscesses is the best approach. To that end, keep your cat inside. Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives than outdoor cats for this reason and many others. Having your cat spayed or neutered can also help prevent abscesses because it reduces your cat's urge to roam and fight.