Can I use Bacitracin or human ointment on my cat's licking scab?

Question

We have 2 indoor cats. The younger is 2 years old. She started getting these bumps on her neck/chin area a few months ago. They come and go. But now she has one in an area that she can reach to lick. Her fur is missing and it's turned into a scab that is unable to heal due to her licking and scratching it. We ordered a collar to put on her, but in the meantime, I saw that there is an "antibiotic" type ointment for cats and dogs. But it's 11pm and I'm wondering if I can put bacitracin on it? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 10.5 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

No, I would not use Bacitracin on Napa. Although quite safe on superficial wounds, cats groom and ingest most of the topical ointment you apply and therefore should be used only under direct veterinary supervision and if there are no other appropriate options. Many human ointments contain multiple other ingredients which are not necessarily safe to be swallowed. It's great that you've gotten a collar to keep her from licking at the scab! Keep an eye on it while it's healing, and if the area becomes red, swollen, warm to the touch, or has pus, then I would have Napa seen by a vet for antibiotics to treat it.

Can I use Bacitracin or human ointment on my cat's licking scab?

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