My cat's ear scab is infected and smells bad. How to stop it worsening?

Question

My cat had a small scab on his ear which looked like it was healing well, today the scab and become very infected and smells very badly. Can anyone give me any advice on what to do to try and prevent it getting any worse? He doesn't seem like he is in any pain and his eating and drinking like normal. Thank you. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 years and 10 months old | 5 lbs

Debi Matlack · Accepted Answer

He very likely has an abscess in that ear which will probably require antibiotics from your vet to help him heal completely. In the meantime, I suggest cleaning it 3-4 times daily with a mild antibacterial soap and water, following that with flushing the wound with an iodine solution diluted with water, a warm compress (a damp washcloth works fine) for 5 or ten minutes, or as long as your pet will tolerate it, and finishing with antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin that does NOT contain hydrocortisone (steroids slow healing). If your pet is scratching at it with his/her hind claws, try trimming the nails to blunt them and/or taping on old sock over their foot. This will help minimize the trauma done to the wound.

My cat's ear scab is infected and smells bad. How to stop it worsening?

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