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My cat's bite wound is draining. How to help if I can't afford a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 10 months and 3 days old | 10 lbs

My cat has 2 puncture holes caused by either a snake or another cat. It happened a week ago but now it is draining puss and blood. I cant afford a vet, what can I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2017

Most likely this is an abscess due to a bite by another cat based on your description. A snake bite would have in most cases swollen instantly and caused serious pain and additional problems. Unfortunately this is a condition that requires systemic antibiotics to treat. You will need to get your cat to a vet for treatment. You may look to see if there are any low-cost clinics around you. Sometimes the local humane society or APL or ASPCA will have a lower cost veterinary clinic. You may find out if any of the clinics in your area offer a payment plan or allow the use of Care Credit which is credit line for medical costs you can apply for. Or you may need to ask family or friends to help out. This website may provide some other ideas/resources: http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html In the meantime you can help the abscess to drain by applying a warm compress (like a clean warm washrag) to the area for 5-10 minutes a few times daily and cleaning any drainage away afterwards. The longer you delay treatment by a vet the more expensive the issue may become to treat.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    If this is a cat bite, there is a very high risk it turning into an abscess and/or the infection spreading elsewhere, which can be very dangerous to your cat’s health. The bite is likely very sore, and Buddy will probably not let you clean it appropriately at home. It sounds like he may need antibiotics based on your description, which can only be prescribed by a vet. Another very serious concern in the case of a bite wound of unknown origin is the possibility of rabies infection, which is transmitted from the saliva of infected mammals, can be passed on to humans, and is fatal. A snake bite, if from a venomous snake, could be potentially fatal as well. I would advise taking Buddy to the vet asap for treatment to help keep him healthy and to help prevent Buddy from injuring you if you try to clean it yourself. If you are unable to do so, contact your local Humane Society/ shelter and explain the situation. They may be able to assess your pet, or direct you to someone who can.

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