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My cat has a persistent neck scab. Why won't it heal or stop itching?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 1 month old | 9 lbs

My cat has a scab on her neck that she keeps digging at, I've tried Vaseline and it seems to help the itching but the scab won't go away, it's been there since we got her as a kitten and never went away but with Vaseline the itching ends. what is this and how do I fix it?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on August 15th, 2017

She could have a foreign body or infecion in that area that won't properly heal. I would have your vet look at it to ensure she doesn't need some antibiotics or even a culture of the area to ensure it isn't a resistant infection. Finally, if it won't heal, she may need that area surgically removed as I have had a similar case where we surgically removed it and sent the tissue to the lab and there a piece of grass was embedded in that tissue. I hope this helps.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 26th, 2020

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding HarleyQuinn. A non-healing wound is worrisome. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian again or that you consider seeking a second opinion. She will likely require skin testing or even a biopsy of the area to reach a diagnosis. This is not an emergency, but it should be addressed. I hope this information helps!

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