Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Stray cat has a cheek injury. Is it serious? Can I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

We were away for a month and when we came back the stray cat who hangs out in our backyard had this injury on his cheek. Does it look bad? Can we try to give him antibiotics?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 13th, 2020

It looks like a healing abscess that has already burst and drained. If you can handle him enough to gently clean it with a damp warm washcloth, do that a couple of times a day if you can. You can apply a little triple antibiotic ointment but I wouldn't try to give him oral antibiotics. You may not be treating for the particular infection he has and that can create more antibiotic-resistant organisms. Ideally he should be seen by a vet for wound care and possibly antibiotics but if he is a stray I don't know how much you are willing to do and how much he will allow you to do.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 22nd, 2019

    Hello. If you cannot get Gizmo to the vet, then just clean the area with warm water & apply a little triple antibiotic. This is a cat bite abscess & he should actually feel much better now that it has ruptured. Do not give any pain meds, not aspirin, Tylenol, Aleve. Cats are very sensitive to these drugs & just one Tylenol can kill a cat. Thanks for caring about Gizmo & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

    Vote icon

    1Pet 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
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
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