Cats can sometimes sustain wounds whether they spend their time indoors or outdoors. In this post, our Glendale vets discuss common causes of wounds in cats, how to care for a cat wound, and when to take your kitty to a veterinarian for emergency care.
Cats & Severe Wounds
If you're a cat parent, you're aware that cats are naturally adventurous and curious animals. As a result, many suffer from wounds at some point during their lifetime, regardless of whether they live primarily indoors or outdoors.
Wounds can appear in various shapes and sizes, from open cuts to dark-colored bruises, and be caused by a variety of things such as getting an object stuck in their paw, stepping on a sharp item, or getting into a scuffle with another kitty.
While some wounds are minor and can be treated at home, more severe injuries require emergency veterinary care and attention. This is why it's critical to closely monitor your cat's health and well-being, and to respond quickly when you notice signs of injury.
Our veterinarians in Glendale are experienced in giving animals the urgent and emergency care they need when injuries result in severe wounds. In this article, we'll share common symptoms of cat wounds to watch for, and the important steps you can take to provide appropriate care for your feline friend.
Remember, it's critical to treat wounds early on, as even the smallest wounds can quickly become infected by harmful viruses and bacteria. These infections can lead to more severe health issues in the future.
Signs of Cat Wounds
Cats can hide their pain exceptionally well. As a cat parent, remember to watch your feline companion for any signs of injury, such as:
- Bleeding
- Limping
- Missing fur
- Torn Skin
- Tenderness
- Pain
If a wound isn't detected right away, it may worsen or become infected, potentially leading to these symptoms:
- Abscess
- Pus or discharge
- Fever
Common Wounds in Cats
If you notice your cat displaying any of the symptoms listed above, they may have one of these common wounds or injuries:
- Cuts
- Hotspots
- Scratches
- Burns
- Scrapes
- Ulcers
- Insect bites
- Skin rashes
How to Care for Cat Wounds
Your feline friend's health, safety, and well-being are your top priority. Unfortunately, accidents can happen in seconds, and your curious companion can sustain a serious injury. While your cat's immune system will heal the wound and ward off any potential infections the best it can, it's important to take swift action to prevent the injury from worsening and causing further harm to their system.
Here are the first steps you should take to care for your wounded cat and help them start to recover.
Contact Your Veterinarian
Since many wounds qualify as a veterinary emergency, our veterinarians in Glendale recommend calling your veterinarian as soon as you notice your cat is injured. They will tell you which specific actions to take based on the type of wound your cat has endured, and how to provide first aid for your cat's injury.
Assess the Wound for Signs of Infection
If your cat's wound is older, your kitty may already be experiencing an infection. Signs of infection include noticeable pain or discomfort, abscess, or fever. You may also notice behavioral changes or pus discharge. It's essential to bring your cat to the vet for treatment as quickly as possible if these symptoms are occurring.
Determine the Severity of the Wound
If you don't see any signs of infection, your cat's wound is probably fresh. The severity of the wound should be determined by looking at it. If surgery, surgery, or cast is required, you should contact your veterinarian or bring your cat in for emergency veterinary care immediately.
Manage the Bleeding
As a cat parent, seeing your feline friend with an open wound can be distressing. It's essential to act quickly and provide effective first aid care to manage the bleeding and prevent any further damage. The key to successful first aid treatment is to be prepared and know exactly what to do.
One effective method of stopping bleeding is by applying pressure directly to the wound with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. Depending on the depth and location of the injury, it may take around 10–15 minutes for a blood clot to form. However, if you notice that the bleeding isn't slowing down, it's crucial to take your cat to see an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Another helpful tip is to try and slow down the bleeding by raising the affected limb to the level of your cat's heart. This can help to reduce blood flow to the wound and alleviate bleeding.
By taking swift action and following these simple steps, you can help to keep your furry friend comfortable and minimize the risk of any further complications. Remember, when it comes to your cat's health, it's always better to be safe than sorry!
When to Take Your Cat to the Vet
As a loving cat parent, it can be tough to know when to seek veterinary attention for your furry friend's injury. However, it's important to remember that some wounds require immediate medical attention to prevent further harm.
If you notice any concerning symptoms such as signs of infection, severe bleeding, broken limbs, fever, or other severe damage, it's crucial to take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Quick action can make all the difference when it comes to your feline friend's health and well-being.
If you're unsure whether your cat's injury requires medical attention, don't hesitate to call your veterinarian. They can help you assess the situation and provide guidance on whether a visit to the clinic is necessary. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cat's health!
By staying vigilant and taking prompt action, you can help to ensure that your beloved kitty receives the care they need to make a full and speedy recovery.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding asthma or other allergy symptoms.