Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat has a wound with pus after a fight. Can I treat it at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 15 lbs

My cat came home with a patch of hair missing and a red patch from probably skin being removed. I believe he got in a fight with a cat. I dont believe it's an abscess because there was no raise on his skin but the wound did leak a lot of pus. I cleaned it all up and now it's not leaking at all. I put a shirt on him so he doesnt touch it. It doesnt seem to hurt him when I touch it at all. He is eating fine and his ears arent hot. Is he okay to treat at home? Please help, I'm short on money.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 21st, 2018

That could be ok but it is best to repost your question and attach a picture of it to have a complete and reliable advice from us. As you suspected, this presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). Disinfection can be done at home with diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths (twice daily as long as needed). Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking/scratching. all the pus must be removed and the wound must be flushed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 12th, 2019

    Cat bites and scratches are easily infected due to the bacteria in a cat's saliva and under their nails, and this sounds like Oryn's wound may be infected. Unfortunately, this needs to be seen by a veterinarian in person so it can be thoroughly cleaned, any drains added as needed, and a course of pain medications and antibiotics given to clear the infection. Keeping the wound clean and using an Elizabethan (cone) collar to stop Oryn from licking it can help, however this absolutely needs to be seen by a vet. If you're having trouble affording care, this site can help give you some ideas to make it more affordable so Oryn can get the help he needs: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/having-trouble-affording-veterinary-care

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 12th, 2017

    Unfortunately most of the times antibiotics are needed to avoid severe infection. If you cannot afford a veterinarian disinfection can eventually be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid scratching. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation (where you can post pictures) if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored