Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why does my cat have a small scab on her neck after a vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat Nelli has a small dot size scab around her neck just around the top of her shoulder. I thought it might be a flea, so I tried removing it with tweezers, but its deeply embedded in the skin and I think it's a scab. It doesn't seem to bother her, but I did have to take her to the vet for an emergency last week. She was vomiting, had diarrhea, and was hyperventilating, took her in and gave her some antibiotics and fluids, and she was okay by the end of it and went home. Maybe a bug bite scab

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 8th, 2017

Poor Nelli! That looks very much like a pustule which is basically a small accumulation of pus which may be because of a focal infection or inflammation. Often times it pops open and drains on its own and resolves and in other cases it requires further work-up and antibiotic therapy. It sounds like Nelli is all better now. However, if it does not resolve or reappears, it would be a good idea to have your veterinarian examine Nelli to ensure there is no other lesions or signs of infection that warrant further diagnostics and treatment. It appears that her vomiting, diarrhea and hyperventilation have resolved which is great as those are more concerning clinical signs that are most likely unrelated to the skin abnormality. Best of luck!

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    You are right that it was a scab. What you are looking at there is a veterinarian's favorite place to inject things. With your history of the recent vet visit, it is most likely scabbed from the injection site. We also like to put microchips in that spot as well, so if she had a microchip, it would be good to check and make sure it wasn't the microchip that came out. You can get her scanned for free at any shelter or vet clinic. It's really simple. The wound is small and not very concerning. It's best to just flush it with clean water (no soap or disinfectant) and then you can apply some antibacterial cream over it. You can repeat this daily until it looks well-healed. Shouldn't take more than a week. I hope that helps. Good to hear that she's all better.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored