Cat bite abscess in cats

Cat bite abscesses are an extremely common condition in cats. They are swellings filled with pus, mostly found around the face, head, neck, and tail. Cat bite abscesses can affect any cat but are most common in younger, outdoor, male, unneutered cats.

The cause of a cat bite abscess is a bite or scratch wound from another cat. The abscess then forms under the skin after a few days. Cat bite abscesses can look and smell disgusting, but they are usually not serious and should resolve quickly with appropriate treatment.

Overview

What is a cat bite abscess in cats?

A cat bite abscess is an infection under the skin

They are caused by a bite or scratch wound from another cat
Cats mouths and nails are full of bacteria, and this transfers deep into the skin during a fight or attack
This leads to a swelling filled with pus and blood, which may rupture open
They usually resolve quickly with appropriate treatment, within 1-2 weeks

If your cat has been in a fight or has developed any swelling, contact a veterinarian to discuss the best course of action. Our Joii vets are available 24 hours a day for advice.

Other common types of abscesses in cats

Foreign bodies, such as grass seeds or sticks
Tooth root abscess, find out more about Bad breath
Anal gland abscess
Tumours leading to secondary infection

Symptoms

Symptoms of a cat bite abscess in cats

Signs of a cat bite abscess may take several days to develop after a fight or attack.

Swelling of the skin
The skin may be hot to the touch and red
Pain, especially around the skin swelling.
Puncture wounds on the skin from teeth or claws are not always seen as they heal quickly
A large open wound with fresh blood or pus, usually smelly if the abscess has ruptured.
Not eating or drinking
Lethargy, sleeping more than normal
Fever
Limping

cat bite abscesses in cats — Swelling of the skin is a common symptom

cat bite abscess symptoms — If the abscess ruptures, you may see pus and crusting

cat bite abscess signs and symptoms photo — Cats with abscesses are often lethargic and have a reduced appetite

Risk

Are some cats at more risk of cat bite abscesses than others?

Cat bite abscesses result from a bite or scratch from another cat. Any cat that has been in a fight is at risk. The following groups are more at risk:

Entire male cats that go outdoors are more likely to roam and fight.
Cats with weaker immune systems, such as those with FIV (Feline immunodeficiency virus) or diabetes. Their bodies find it more difficult to fight off infections.

Diagnosis

How is a cat bite abscess diagnosed in cats?

Cat bite abscesses are usually diagnosed based on their appearance and the presence of certain symptoms, such as a high temperature or lethargy. Further tests are not common but may include

A needle sample can confirm pus within the swelling
Your vet might also recommend testing for FIV or FeLV, as these can be spread by cat bites or scratches
General blood tests to check the overall health of your cat

If the abscess is not healing as it should within 1-2 weeks, your vet may recommend further investigation. This could be a skin biopsy, imaging, or sending off a sample of the discharge to determine what bacteria are present.

Vet treatment

Vet treatment for a cat bite abscess in cats

The most common medications used for cat bite abscesses are

Antibiotics: by injection, orally or topically
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication

Cat bite abscesses that are still swollen or have not ruptured usually require surgery

Sedation or general anaesthesia is required
The hair is clipped, then the abscess is lanced (cut open) and cleaned out thoroughly to check for any foreign material, such as nails or teeth.
A drain might be needed to help with removal of discharge after the procedure.
The wound may be stitched up or left open to heal.
Antibiotics and pain relief during and after the procedure

Left untreated, cat bite abscesses may heal on their own, but this is not common. Always seek advice from a veterinarian, as this condition is painful.

Home treatment

Home remedies for a cat bite abscess in cats

Once lanced open and cleaned by your vet, it is important to keep the wound clean and prevent self-trauma

Saline bathe (1 tsp salt/500 ml cooled boiled water) the area 1-2 times daily and keep dry afterwards
Allow your cat to rest to help the wound heal; this may mean keeping them indoors
Use a buster collar to prevent licking, which can cause further infection
Feed a balanced, palatable diet to help improve your cat’s appetite
Use a warm compress to help ease some discomfort, especially if the swelling has not yet ruptured

Make sure to follow the directions on any medication prescribed by your veterinarian, and do not stop the medication early unless advised otherwise.

Our Joii team are available 24 hours a day if you have any questions.

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent cat bite abscesses in cats

Neuter your cat to reduce the risk of fighting
If your cat develops repeated cat bite abscesses, it may be best to keep them indoors or only let them outside when monitored

Is my family at risk of catching cat bite abscesses?

Cat bite abscesses are not contagious. Cats can bite humans, and this carries it’s own risks. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have been bitten by a cat.

When to worry