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My cat has a sore on his neck. Is it serious? Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 years and 2 months old | 15 lbs

My cat has a sore on his neck and I don’t know how serious it is.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 24th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Ringo has a wound on his neck. Based on your picture, it does look like he might have a skin infection of some kind, even possibly from a ruptured abscess. Does he go outside? I would recommend having him evaluated by his regular veterinarian to have area clipped, cleaned, and assessed to determine what may be going on, and what treatment (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or possible surgical repair) may be needed to resolve it. If he goes outside and the wound may have come from an unknown animal, I would also recommend his rabies vaccine be boostered as well. Good luck!

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