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Cat abscess wound: Should I remove scabs for better healing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | European Burmese | Male | neutered | 14 years and 4 months old | 10 lbs

Hello, We have an older cat who had an abscess. We had a vet come to our home to clean the wound and drain it. He developed a big scab which eventually came off and left him with a big wound. We took him to another vet who gave us a collar for him and a new antibiotic cream. He told us the abscess was clear but we should clean the wound twice a day. Scrape off the scabs then apply the cream. The wound seems good in that it doesn't appear infected but how will it heal if we keep removing scabs?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 7th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Max! Cats are miraculous healers! Keep the cone on until scabbed and significantly smaller. I think just apply the ointment twice daily until a scab forms then stop. No need to keep picking the scab! I hope this helps and I wish Max the best!

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