Treating a Cat Suffering from Local Infection

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It can be hard to treat a cat suffering from local infection or abscess. The infection could be filled with pus. The reason for treatment being complicated that it not always clear as to what's wrong. The body of the cat creates walls encircling the wounds. The pus then collects within the wall confines. Local infection in a cat is generally caused by scratches or bite wounds. It may multiply within a period of time when the disease occurs.

Cause

The infection is a result of bacteria which gets carried to the affected part by the claws or tooth of the animal which has attacked the cat. The bacteria then enter the skin through the scratch or bite. A majority of the local infection occurs in the area around the neck and the front legs. Abscesses are also discovered in the tail or rump area. Cat owners most times, fail to realize that their cat has been bitten. A few signs of an abscess include a foul-smelling discharge from a soft and painful swelled open wound. The cat would suffer a loss of appetite and could be lethargic all day. A certain standard method exists when it comes to treating abscesses.

Treatment

Before you begin treating the wound, shave the hair surrounding the localized infection or abscess area. Look at the wound carefully. If the abscess drains, it is a good sign. If it does not, apply moist and hot compresses for about 20 minutes and repeat three times every day. Continue to do so until the abscess starts to drain.

Clean the localized infection area with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide about two or three times every day. No other antiseptic must be used. Use your fingernail to keep a scab from forming. Maintain this stance for two to three days. In case the cat ceases to eat, or the abscess continues to drain foul smelling substance withibn two days, take the cat to the veterinarian. Do the same if the wound area is too big. In some cats, abscesses could be a chronic problem. It is important to discuss the lifestyle of your cat with the vet to solve a chronic problem. The chances of localized infection much reduce if neutering or spaying is done. If you have not done so, keep your cats inside an enclosure where they cannot fight another cat or comparable attacking animal. Disease transmission is also a major issue. The cat must be given all vaccines and kept up-to-date with the procedure at all times. The list of important vaccines includes rabies, feline AIDS or FIV and feline leukemia. It is to note that the feline leukemia is not fully effective, with only 70 percent success rate.