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My cat has a head scab. Does it need a vet or is it a scratch?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

My cat lives indoors at all times, with no other animals. He has this on the top of his head. It scabbed over and the scab fell off revealing this. Do you think this is something I need to take him to a vet for, or does it look like more of just a scratch?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 3rd, 2019

Poor cat. This looks wide enough where it should at the very least get a topical treatment. You can try an over the counter antibitoic ointment or spray from your local pet store. Ask a store representative as to what is available in your area. You should also clean this area with Betadine diluted 50:50 with warm water to help keep bacteria and infection at bay. If it doesn't seem to be healing well in the next few days, then a vet visit is warranted at that point. I hope that this heals up well soon! Best of luck moving forward. Take care. : )

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