Abscesses in Cats

An abscess is a collection of pus that has accumulated in a cavity formed by the tissue due to infection or foreign materials. It is a defense mechanism and is the body's way of preventing the spread of infection.

Some cats are prone to getting into fights with other neighbourhood cats and the result can sometimes be an abscess. An abscess will usually form about 3 days after a fight. The initial wound is usually deceptively small. Sharp teeth and claws can inject dirt and bacteria through a small wound deep under the skin, causing an infection to develop.

All cat fight wounds should quickly be bathed with saline and monitored by any swelling. Larger wounds should be seen by a vet as soon as possible and antibiotics could be required.

If the abscess is open and draining well with no pockets of pus, it will often heal well with regular bathing in saline.

Abscesses which are not draining properly, or have dead (hard and black or purple) skin, should always be seen by a vet and surgical drainage is often required. Drainage tubes may be placed which your vet will show you how to keep clean.