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Cat has open sores & hair loss. How to get vet care with no money?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | 10 lbs

My cat has large hairless spots w/open sores that are progressing rapidly. I have no money for meds or vet. Is there anything I can do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 2nd, 2017

Oh no, poor Pete! Unfortunately, this does require a vet visit as it sounds quite serious that these open sores are progressing rapidly. He may have a severe skin infection or could have mange among other causes. In order for him to be properly treated, the cause of these sores need to be diagnosed by a vet. I have a number of resources I can give you that may help you afford a vet. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ The Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides financial assistance to cat and kitten guardians who are unable to afford veterinary services to save their companions when life-threatening illness or injury strikes.
 God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.
 The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.
 Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. I hope one of these resources helps you afford a vet, please take Pete into one ASAP.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 26th, 2019

    That is terrible and quite severe. It could be Honey has a very serious skin infection, and she has to see a vet immediately. If paying for a vet is an issue, you can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ http://www.dogheirs.com/resources-affordable-veterinary-care/ Check out these resources to see if one can help you, and please take her into a vet now. Best of luck.

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