How to Treat a Leg Wound on a Cat

Many cat leg wounds are treatable at home. However, cat leg wounds that are bleeding excessively need to be treated by a veterinarian. These wounds will probably need stitches and may be infected. Treating a cat wound at home can be easy if you have the right supplies and someone to help. Your assistant can hold the cat in place while you treat the wound. Try to keep the cat calm by gently talking to it. Have all of your supplies within reach before you begin applying first-aid.

Things You'll Need

  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Antibacterial Soap
  • Sterile Saline Solution
  • Gauze
  • Surgical Tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the hair from the wound area. Do not use an electric razor; it may scare the cat. Instead, use a pair of scissors to gently clip the hair from around the wound. This will help you get a closer look.

    • 2

      Eliminate any debris or rocks from the wound with tweezers. If you have trouble seeing deep into the wound, you can use a flashlight to get a better look. Proceed with caution and be gentle so you do not hurt the animal or cause further damage. If something is stuck and cannot be removed, the cat will need to be seen by a veterinarian.

    • 3

      Clean out the wound thoroughly with sterile saline solution. Many times you can find this product in your medicine cabinet. Nasal sprays, or contact lens cleaners that only contain saline solution may suffice. If you don't have any, you can lightly lather the area with antibacterial soap. Rinse the wound with warm water. Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.

    • 4

      Place a clean bandage on the wound. Use gauze pads to cover the wound. You may need to use more than one. Wrap the leg with surgical tape. Other types of tape may work as long as it holds the gauze securely over the wound. If your cat successfully removes the bandage, you may need to use more tape. Replace the bandage twice daily.