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My cat's spay incision looks infected. What can I do at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 11 months old | 10 lbs

Today is one week after Gracie’s spaying and her incision seems to be infected and not healing as it should be, what should we do to care for this until we can get her to the vet?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 12th, 2018

Hello. It does look like the incision is opening a bit, but just the skin. The underlying muscle looks intact. You may have to put an E-collar ( cone of shame ) on her to prevent her from licking the incision open more. Most of the big pet retailers have them & one of the soft ones made for kitties should not be too stressful for her. I would also pick up some betadine at any pharmacy & gently clean the skin twice daily. No need to scrub. It is not necessary, but it would not hurt to put a dab on Neosporin on the incision, but only if she is wearing the collar. You do not want her to try cleaning the incision with her rough tongue. If the incision reddens much more, or begins to discharge at all, you will need to have her seen over the weekend. She will not fall apart on you, but keep a good eye on things & if it really worries you, have her seen quickly. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on October 21st, 2018

    It appears to be okay but it has pulled open just a little. But I can't tell from the photo what could be going on below the skin. I would recommend that you have Kiki examined by a vet to see if it needs to be closed or if it is okay right now. If she isn't wearing one yet, you should put on an e-collar to prevent any licking to avoid infection or delayed healing.

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