What are Abscesses on Cats
An abscess is an accumulation of pus, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It is relatively common for cats to suffer from abscesses following a cat fight. A cat’s mouth and claws naturally carry a lot of bacteria that are easily transferred to wounds, particularly deep punctures, such as those caused by bites, and this can result in an infection. When the body responds to the infection, an inflammatory response is triggered, drawing a large amount of white blood cells to the area, which can form pus and become an abscess.
If sufficient pus accumulates, the area may swell up, and in areas close to the surface of the body, it is common for abscesses to burst and drain through the skin. The most commonly affected areas are the head, neck, limbs, back and base of the tail, as these are the most commonly injured areas when cats fight.
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published February 2025 | Review date February 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Symptoms of a Cat Abscess
Signs of pain- limping, licking or pawing at the affected area; aggression, growling when approached.
Fever
Red/swollen areas in the skin
Pus or blood on the skin, draining from a wound
Loss of hair at the site of the abscess
Loss of appetite (eating less)
Lethargy (lack of energy)
When to contact your vet
If you suspect your cat has an abscess, it's crucial to contact your vet promptly. While abscesses can be treated, they can also lead to serious complications if left untreated. Your vet will be able to properly diagnose the abscess, determine the cause, and administer appropriate treatment, which may include drainage, antibiotics, and pain relief.
Diagnosis
Physical examination: feeling for any areas of swelling, heat, or pain. Presence of wounds.
Imaging: imaging techniques like X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to visualise the abscess and determine its location and extent.
Blood tests may be performed to assess the cat's overall health and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.
Treating a cat abscess
Treatment required depends on the extent and severity of the abscess, but may include:
Lancing and drainage: lance (cut open) the abscess to release the pus and flush out the area
Antibiotics
Pain medication
Prevention
Neutering male cats can reduce the urge to roam and engage in fights, which are major causes of bite wound abscesses
Regularly inspect your cat for any signs of bites, scratches
Early veterinary care if you suspect your cat has an abscess
Outlook
Abscesses in cats usually have a good outlook, especially when treated promptly. With appropriate care, most abscesses heal within 1-2 weeks, with some cases taking longer depending on factors like the size and location. While typically not emergencies, it's crucial to seek your vet advice for diagnosis and treatment due to potential complications.