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My cat has a ruptured abscess from a fight. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 16 lbs

My cat was in a fight with another cat Thursday evening and has what appears to be a ruptured abscess. The hole looks quite large. He is moving around and eating more today but still hiding most of the time. I am wondering if he can wait to see a vet when they are open Tuesday or should he go 2 hours away to an emergency vet tomorrow. I am worried about how he will handle 4 hours in a car.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on June 30th, 2019

It's hard to say if it can wait. Once an abscess is opened and draining, much of the risk of lots of pain and deeper infection is reduced. If you decide to wait, Mr. Fox needs to wear an e-collar to prevent further licking of the wound, since that will delay healing and spread infection. You can apply Neosporin or clean with warm water rinses, but don't use alcohol or peroxide.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 29th, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Jordan. Poor boy. It sounds like he had an abscess and it's now ruptured. These are very painful to cats, and can make them sick from the infection. Due to this, I do think the emergency vet is the best option for him. I would take him into the 24 hour vet now. I hope this helps.

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