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My cat has a bleeding wound on his side with fever. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 18 lbs

Hi, my cat Smitty has a small hole in his side near his ribs and we're not sure where it came from or when he got it. It seems to have been bleeding and he has a slight fever. He is very tender in that area as well. Please help, I love my kitty very much!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2017

Poor Smitty! It could be he injured himself leading to this small hole, and if the wound is infected, that could cause a fever. Pain would cause him to be tender in the area. I would clean the area with warm water and antiseptic soap, and then have him seen by a vet in the morning. The vet can determine if the wound is infected and can prescribe antibiotics to treat it. The vet can also give him pain medications if needed. Please do not give Smitty any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. The vet can prescribe him pain medications as needed. If his temperature is above 103F, then he should see an ER vet immediately. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    IT sounds like a possible fight wounds, probably an abscess, you will need to take Smitty to the vet in order o get it treated, he will need an antibiotic injection and the wound will need to be cleaned as well.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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