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Cat bite swelling still there after a week. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

Last week I noticed that my male cat had a swollen bottom lip and several open wounds under his chin. They appeared to be puncture wounds from another cat. I cleaned them and applied a warm cloth for the swelling. It has been a week now and the wounds are healing very well but the swelling hasn't gone down. Is it normal for the swelling to remain for this long? Is there anything more that I can do at home for him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 22nd, 2017

No, the swelling should not still be there after a week. Cat bites get infected very easily so Oliver probably needs antibiotics and anti-inflammatories to get this to clear up fully. The swelling you are seeing is either an abscess or cellulitis. He really needs to see your vet for this. Here is a link about cat bites that will give you more in-depth information. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/wounds-fight-wound-infections-in-cats There is nothing I can recommend you give him at home.Cats are very sensitive to over the counter medications (unlike dogs) and you could really cause him some harm if you try to give him any of those. He really needs medications prescribed by your vet. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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