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Why does my cat's head scab smell rotten and have discharge?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 years and 7 months old | 4.5 lbs

My cat has had a scab on the top of his head for a few days. Today there has been a snot like substance around the area that smells like rotted meat. Could there be an infection?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2017

Yes, it does sound like this area is infected if it smells like rotten meat and there is a greenish discharge. I would have Socks seen by a vet right away for this to have the area cleaned, and he will need antibiotics to treat the infection.

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