How to Treat a Cat for a Scrape or Abrasion

Friction against any surface can cause a scrape or abrasion. You can sometimes treat minor scrapes and abrasions on your cat at home; however, if your cat seems injured in any other way (if she is limping, for example), take her in to your vet. Superficial skin injuries may not be her only problem. Otherwise, as long as you keep a close eye on the wound after treating it and keep the cat̵7;s activity to a minimum, abrasions and scrapes should heal without complications.

Things You'll Need

  • Sterile wound cleaner
  • Clean cloth or sterile gauze
  • Antibiotic spray or ointment
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep the cat as calm and still as possible. You may want to wear long sleeves to avoid getting scratches on your arms. Most cats will not let anyone near a wound without putting up a fight. If some other cat lover is around who can hold the cat for you, solicit his help.

    • 2

      Pour a sterile wound cleaner directly on the abrasion. This cleaner comes in some pet first aid kits and you can also buy it at pet stores. If you don̵7;t have any on hand, use warm (not hot) water and salt to flush out dirt from the wound. Petdoc.com recommends using one teaspoon of salt per two cups of water.

    • 3

      Use a wet piece of sterile gauze or a clean cloth to wipe the abrasion. Be gentle--don̵7;t scrub. The purpose is to remove surface debris from the wound so the abrasion will not be as susceptible to infection. If you notice any debris embedded deep in the scrape, talk to your veterinarian.

    • 4

      Apply an antibiotic spray or ointment to the area. Leave the abrasion uncovered, or cover it very loosely with a gauze bandage. You̵7;ll need to reapply the ointment. According to acatdog.com, you should apply the ointment at least twice a day and up to four times a day.