How to Treat a Burn on My Cat

Because of their curiosity, cats can get into some dangerous situations, such as running across a hot stove, getting too close to a candle flame or touching a hot iron. Outdoor cats can also get minor sunburns in warm weather. If your cat gets a minor burn, you can treat it at home to relieve your cat's pain and prevent an infection. Treat first-degree burns that only result in reddened skin yourself; bring a cat with second- or third-degree burns to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Scissors
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Antibacterial soap
  • Aloe vera
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Bandages
  • E-collar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cool the area after the burn occurs by soaking a sterile gauze pad in cold water to make a cold compress. Cover the area with the compress to help relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. Change the pad every 10 minutes or when it gets warm, for one half hour to 40 minutes after the burn occurs.

    • 2

      Sterilize a pair of scissors by wiping it down with hydrogen peroxide. Use the scissors to clip the hair around the burn to see the extent of the wound. Do not clip too close to the skin to avoid cutting your cat.

    • 3

      Wash the burn with antibacterial soap and cool water in your kitchen sink or bathtub. This will clean away any germs and excess hair clippings. Rinse the area thoroughly with cool water to remove any soap residue.

    • 4

      Dry the area completely by dabbing it gently with sterile gauze pads, which will not stick to the wound. Apply aloe vera or or antibiotic ointment three to five times per day to the area.

    • 5

      Cover the area with a bandage to protect it from your cat licking the area, and keep it clean and free of germs. Change the bandage each time you re-medicate the area. To prevent the cat from bothering the area, place a medical E-collar around its neck until the wound heals.