Bacitracin for an Open Wound on a Cat

The curious nature of cats makes them susceptible to a variety of wounds, especially if they spend time outside. Cats are notorious for getting into places they shouldn't and fighting with their neighbors, and often come away from each encounter a little worse for wear. Any wound that penetrates all the way through the skin and is more than an inch long should be sutured, and if the wound is dirty or infected, drains may be placed. Regardless of the cause of the wound, oral and topical antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent infection.

  1. What is Bacitracin?

    • Bacitracin is a topical antibiotic that comes in a sterile ointment. Although formulated specifically for eye infections, it is often used to treat bacterial infections that may result from an open wound. It is a powerful treatment against most gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, and will treat some gram-negative bacterial infections as well. Bacitracin is also occasionally prescribed as part of a treatment plan for sutured wounds.

    How Is It Used?

    • The wound must be thoroughly cleaned before the medication is applied, and all loose scabs and crusts should be removed to allow maximum contact with the affected area. The ointment is gently rubbed into the wound and the surrounding skin surface two to three times daily. If the wound is very fresh or especially painful, a cotton swab may be used to apply the medication. The wound may or may not be bandaged after treatment.

    Side Effects

    • The occurrence of side effects from Bacitracin is so low it's practically non-existent. There is always a chance, however, that a reaction can occur. Any signs of redness, swelling, or hives should be immediately reported to a veterinarian, and the medication should be discontinued.

    Supplemental Treatment

    • Infection is best prevented and treated when the medication acts both internally and externally. Bacitracin is applied topically to make the wound an inhospitable environment for bacteria, and an oral antibiotic will kill whatever bacteria have already entered the body.

    Alternatives

    • Occasionally, Bacitracin will appear to be ineffective. This is because the bacteria infecting the wound may not be sensitive to the drug. In these cases, the wound will be cultured to find out exactly what bacteria are present, and exactly what drug will work.