Cat licking fur off legs, skin raw. What can I do before a vet?

Question

My cat has been grooming his legs to the point that the fur is gone and he has licked himself raw. I am scared the skin will break and I don't know what to do. I can't go to a vet until next month. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 9 months old

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Ouch, poor Ninja! Cats overgroom when they are very itchy, and it's serious that he has licked himself raw. This cannot wait until next month as it could be infected, and the cause of overgrooming needs to be diagnosed now. I will put some links at the end of my answer with resources that may help you afford a vet sooner. As for the licking, it could be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If he isn't up to date on his flea treatment, he will need a spot on treatment such as Advantage or Revolution. You will need to disinfect the environment as well. If he is up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into the vet for an exam tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. Tonight, I would put an Ecollar on him to keep him from licking at it more and I will put a link on how to make one below. You can clean the cut with warm water and antiseptic soap. Affording a vet: You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ The Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides financial assistance to cat and kitten guardians who are unable to afford veterinary services to save their companions when life-threatening illness or injury strikes.  God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.  The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.  Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. IMOM is dedicated to insure that no companion animal has to be euthanized simply because their caretaker is financially challenged. Ecollar for a cat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ffR-LzyW1M

Cat licking fur off legs, skin raw. What can I do before a vet?

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