Abscesses in cats

Abscesses in cats are painful, pus-filled infections caused by bacteria, forming under the skin or in the body. They can affect cats of any age and require prompt veterinary care.

Orange and white cat with an abscess on its face, showing redness and swelling, requiring veterinary care.

What is a Cat Abscess?

A cat abscess is a painful, swollen lump filled with pus, often caused by a bite or scratch that has become infected. These infections can be painful, smelly, and even dangerous if left untreated.

At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment to help your cat heal quickly and comfortably.

Signs Your Cat May Have an Abscess

🐾 A swollen lump under the skin
🐾 Red, inflamed, or leaking wounds
🐾 Limping or signs of pain when touched
🐾 Lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite
🐾 Excessive licking or grooming in one area

If your cat is showing any of these signs, it’s important to seek vet care as soon as possible.

What Causes Abscesses?

Abscesses occur when bacteria get trapped under the skin, leading to an infection. The most common causes include:

🐾 A tooth root abscess
🐾 Cat fights
🐾 Puncture wounds from objects or fights
🐾 Lumps that have become infected

If your cat is showing any of these signs, it’s important to seek vet care as soon as possible.

When to See a Vet

Abscesses will not go away on their own. Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat has been in a fight with another cat or has obtained a wound of any kind.

Abscesses can take a few days to develop after an episode of trauma to the skin. Abscesses can cause severe pain, fever and infections may spread systemically if left untreated. Prompt treatment can prevent abscesses from developing. For worst case scenarios, abscess may require hospitalisation and surgical repair.

At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer expert abscess treatment for cats across Perth to ensure a safe, comfortable recovery.

The My Corner Vet Nedlands team standing outside the clinic entrance, welcoming pet owners with expert care and a friendly environment.

Professional Abscess Treatment at My Corner Vet

We provide gentle, effective treatment to help your cat heal, including:

Thorough Examination

To assess the abscess and rule out deeper infections

Draining & Cleaning

Preventing further infection

Ongoing Monitoring

To ensure proper healing

Pain Relief & Antibiotics

Ensuring a comfortable, fast recovery

Surgical Intervention

If required

Each treatment plan is tailored to your cat’s needs, giving them the best chance at a quick, stress-free recovery.

How to Prevent Abscesses in Cats

🐾 Keeping your cat indoors – Reduces exposure to fights and injuries
🐾 Neutering or spaying your cat – Helps prevent aggressive territorial behaviour
🐾 Regular vet check-ups – Catching infections before they worsen
🐾 Checking your cat’s coat after outdoor adventures for injuries or foreign bodies
🐾 Frequent dental check ups and home dental care to prevent tooth root abscesses from forming

While not all abscesses can be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

If your cat is prone to abscesses, speak to our team about long-term prevention strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Book a vet appointment as soon as possible. Abscesses can be painful and worsen quickly without treatment.

    Avoid trying to drain or treat it at home, as this may spread the infection.

  • No, abscesses won’t heal on their own. They require medical attention to prevent infection from spreading.

  • Abscesses themselves aren’t contagious, but the bacteria causing them can be. If your cat was bitten by another cat, it’s important to get them treated for infections.

  • If an abscess bursts, keep the area clean and book a vet appointment immediately.

    The open wound is already infected and will need antibiotics.

    • Keep them indoors or supervised outdoors

    • Neuter or spay to reduce fighting behaviour

    • Check for wounds after outdoor time

    • Regular dental care to prevent tooth root abscesses

  • Not always. Many abscesses can be treated with draining, cleaning, and antibiotics, but severe cases may require surgical removal under anaesthetic.

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Book an Appointment at My Corner Vet

🐾 Fast, expert care for cat abscesses in Perth
🐾 Same-day appointments available
🐾 A caring, professional team

📍 Clinic Location: 134 Broadway, Nedlands, WA
📞 Call Us: (08) 6285 8535
📅 Online Booking: Book Now

Your cat’s health matters. If you notice signs of an abscess, book an appointment today for expert treatment.

Local Vet for Local Pets

Conveniently located in the heart of Nedlands, My Corner Vet is here for you and your pets. Use the map to find us and plan your visit with ease!

Free parking is available for all patients, just a short 20-step walk to our welcoming waiting room.