HOW TO TREAT WOUNDED CAT

Cats are known to be curious creatures that love exploring. These sassy pets often get themselves involved in accidents and altercations with other pets. When they’re not doing so, you can find them chasing toys and exploring their physical capabilities by jumping around in the house or doing zoomies. What’s common between all these scenarios? The unavoidable chances of getting themselves injured. This article is the ultimate guide to cat wound care that aims to help readers learn more about how to help a wounded cat in its time of need. This guide includes tips on how to treat a wounded cat.

IDENTIFYING THE TYPE OF WOUND

• Puncture wounds: A puncture wound may look like a small wound but usually runs deep and needs immediate care. It is caused by bites, scratches, or foreign objects such as metal, glass, or any other sharp objects.
• Bite wounds: Bite injuries can be caused because of fights with other animals. Cats usually get into altercations with each other which can result in punctures and abrasions of the underlying tissues. Sometimes, insects can also be the reason for bite wounds.
• Abrasions: Abrasions put into simple words are just cuts and scratches. They usually heal on their own. However, if you notice any swelling, odor, pus, or bleeding, your cat’s wound has likely caught an infection and you must take it to the vet immediately.
• Abscess: Abscesses are formed under the skin and are usually bacterial. A feline abscess can cause fever, cellulitis, and pain in your furry friend. An abscess must be properly drained and cleaned to avoid any infections. Take your cat to the vet to get proper medical attention.
• Fracture and bone injuries: If your cat has a bone injury, you will notice swelling, bruising, and even protrusion in some cases. You will also notice your furry friend struggle to walk around. If you suspect a bone injury, take your cat to the vet immediately. 

HOW TO TREAT A WOUNDED CAT?

• STEP 1: STAY CALM AND GET A HOLD OF THE SITUATION

  The first step for cat wound care is to stay calm and assess the situation instead of panicking. Once you’ve spotted a wound on your cat, get ready to clean it to minimize the chances of any infections.

• STEP 2: CLEAN THE WOUND

  Once you’ve checked the wound, it’s time to clean it. Grab a clean cloth, some warm water, clean gauze, a pair of sanitized tweezers, and an antiseptic solution. Remove any excess hair or dirt from the wound with sanitized tweezers. Mix some antiseptic solution in warm water, dip the clean cloth in it, and drain all excess water till you have a wet cloth that is not dripping. Gently clean your cat’s wound with this wet cloth.

• STEP 3: STOP BLEEDING

  If you notice any bleeding, you can use a clean gauze after you have cleaned the wound to help stop the bleeding. Simply place it on the wound and gently apply some pressure for a few minutes until the bleeding has stopped.

• STEP 4: APPLY AN ANTISEPTIC (CAT WOUND MEDICINE)

  You can contact your vet and ask them what the best antiseptic cream or ointment is to apply to your cat’s wound. Using an antiseptic medicine to treat your cat’s wound will contribute to faster healing and provide pain relief.

• STEP 5: BANDAGE THE WOUND

  Cover up the wound with a bandage to prevent infections. Your vet can suggest the right bandage and method to seal the wound until they take a look at your furry friend’s injury.

• STEP 6: PAIN MANAGEMENT

  Your vet may prescribe some medicines or therapy for your cat after a thorough examination. Follow your doctor’s guidelines and make sure that your cat does not do anything to stress that particular part of its body. Make sure that the cat doesn’t scratch or lick the wound.

• STEP 7: CREATE A COMFORTABLE RECOVERY ENVIRONMENT

  It is now time to pamper your cat! Treats, favorite food, toys – there are so many ways of creating a comfortable recovery environment for your cat.

HOME REMEDIES FOR CAT WOUNDS

While home remedies may work from time to time, take your cat to the vet for even the smallest wound to rule out any health concerns. Seeking veterinary care frequently after your cat has been injured is very important. Even if your cat’s wound is healing perfectly, you must take your furry friend to the vet to check on its progress.

Keep checking your cat’s wound regularly for any signs of infections like bruising, bleeding, swelling, odor, or pus. Moreover, keeping the wound clean and dry is the best way to treat cat wounds. Make sure you’re changing the bandage frequently and cleaning the wound as advised by your veterinarian.