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Cat spay incision scab: How to clean it and how long for the cone?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 3 months old | 13 lbs

So my Cleo was desexed 3 months ago. She licked at it & we had her wear the cone for two weeks, thought it was healed but now there's a scab where she was desexed. What should I use to clean it? She has the cone back on. How long should I leave it on?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 24th, 2018

It looks like an almost healed wound, but I'd have to inspect it a bit closer to be sure. In this case, it's best to gently clean the area every day to help it heal and keep it from getting infections. I would just gently wipe the area with a cloth soaked in warm water for two minutes each day. Do not use any soaps, antiseptics or creams as these can irritate the skin and delay healing. If the wound is not getting better, or appears to be getting worse, then it's best to have your veterinarian examine her and advise on the best course of treatment. As a side note, I see some dark debris suspicious of flea dirt in the hair surrounding the affected area. I would make sure that she doesn't have fleas and/or is on flea treatment. Below is a good article about fleas. https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-tips-to-get-rid-of-fleas/ I hope that helps and all is well with Cleo.

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