How Do I Treat an Infected Abscess in My Cat?

An abscess on your cat is easy to identify. It is characterized by a blister-like swelling and a hot feeling on the skin around the lump. It also is tender and painful to the touch. Abscesses are common in cats, especially male cats if they are unneutered; tomcats are more likely to get into fights with other cats. An abscess in a cat's mouth may indicate a need for dental care. You can treat some abscesses at home, if you are prepared to deal with some difficult and unpleasant chores.

Things You'll Need

  • Grooming scissors
  • Disposable razor
  • Cloth
  • Antiseptic cleanser
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Instructions

    • 1

      Discern if your cat needs immediate veterinary care. If at any time your cat has a fever, diminished appetite, is lethargic or seems "off," call your cat's veterinarian. An abscess can be serious or even fatal if not treated properly.

    • 2

      Use your grooming scissors and a disposable razor to trim hair from around the wound. Remove as much hair as possible. Shaving it down to the skin is preferable, but only if this can be safely accomplished.

    • 3

      Place your cat in the sink or bathtub, and run warm water over the abscess for approximately five minutes. If your cat won't tolerate being held in running water, use a cloth rinsed in clean, warm water to swab the wound. If the abscess does not open and drain as a result of the water therapy, call your cat's veterinarian. A closed abscess cannot be treated at home.

    • 4

      Wash the infected area of the open abscess with an antiseptic. Veterinarypetcare.com suggests using Hibitane, a cleanser that is available at most pharmacies.

    • 5

      Repeat the water therapy and antiseptic wash twice daily for five to seven days, or until the infection is gone.