Cat abscess causes, symptoms and treatment

October 11, 8:26 PMPet Health ExaminerLorie Huston

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Cat abscesses are commonly caused by fight wounds.

Cat abscesses are a common feline complaint and these wounds can be quite painful for a cat. Abscesses can also lead to more severe systemic infections which can cause a cat to become seriously ill, particularly if the abscess is left untreated.

Causes of abscesses in cats

Abscesses are basically infected wounds. The wounds often involve the skin, although it is not impossible to see abscesses in other organs as well.

Probably the most common cause of cat abscesses are wounds resulting from fights which other animals. These wounds frequently become infected and cause an abscess.

Other potential causes are foreign bodies and bad teeth.

Cat abscess symptoms

The abscessed area is usually painful for the cat and almost always swollen. As the abscess matures, more pus is produced within the abscessed cavity, causing the swelling to become more obvious over time. The swollen area may also be fluctuant upon palpation.

As a result of the infection which causes a cat abscess, the temperature of the affected cat will normally become elevated. As the temperature increases, the cat is likely to become lethargic and may stop eating and drinking.

As more pus develops within the abscess, eventually the abscess will open and drain. The drainage will be filled with pus and blood and pet owners cleaning or otherwise handling these areas should take caution to avoid contacting the discharge with their own skin.

If the infection causing the abscess is not properly controlled, it is possible for a draining abscess to heal over and re-abscess. This may recur repeatedly until medical intervention is sought and the infection is controlled properly.

Treatment of a cat abscess

Antibiotics are the cornerstone of abscess treatment for any affected cat. Without the administration of effective antibiotics, it may be impossible for the infection to be cleared so that the abscess can heal correctly.

In addition to antibiotics, abscesses may need to be lanced and drained and/or flushed thoroughly as part of the treatment. If necrotic (dead) tissue is present, the tissue may need to be excised in order to allow the abscess to heal properly.

If the abscess has an underlying cause, such as an infected tooth or a foreign body embedded under the skin, the underlying cause must be treated in order for the abscess to heal. This would involve removing the foreign object, or removing or otherwise treating the infected tooth.

Without the proper treatment, cat abscesses can quickly develop into a serious situation which can impact the health and well-being of any cat. Cat owners are urged to seek medical care for any swelling or mass noticed on their cat's skin.