If your cat has a wound, do not use hydrogen peroxide unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinarian. Hydrogen peroxide can damage the tissue, worsening the wound in the long run. Hydrogen peroxide is abrasive, so it is preferable to use a different antiseptic product, like chlorhexidine for cats.
How should I care for my cat’s open wound at home?
Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions.
Generally speaking, to keep the wound edges clean and to get rid of any crusted discharge, you’ll need to clean it two or three times a day using warm water or a mild antiseptic solution. Unless directed by your veterinarian, NEVER use soaps, shampoos, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, herbal preparations, tea tree oil, or any other product to clean an open wound.
You could bandage the wound to keep your cat from licking it or to shield it from additional contamination. If there is a lot of discharge from the wound, your veterinarian may advise daily bandage changes. In the event that bandaging is not an option, your cat might need a protective collar to stop the wound from getting worse.
Why are some wounds left open to heal?
Sometimes, the location or the amount of skin loss prevents surgical closure or bandaging (wounds on the face or high up on the leg). Puncture wounds or other trauma can force bacteria deep into the tissues. A contaminated wound that is more than a few hours old should never be closed without surgical debridement (removal of all the contaminated or dead tissue), and in some cases, this may result in more permanent damage than treating the wound medically and leaving it open to heal.
The majority of wounds are infected with bacteria and frequently contain foreign objects like grit, dirt, or hair that may need to be removed under anesthesia. Your veterinarian will attempt to clean and suture the wound whenever feasible; but, in the event of severe contamination or deep infection, the wound will be left open to allow for topical therapy and adequate drainage.
Long-term open wounds are typically allowed to heal without surgical closure, though a drain may be inserted. The majority of these wounds are managed with a regimen of frequent bandaging, flushing, and antibiotics.
What is a wound?
An injury that damages the skin and/or the tissues beneath it is called a wound. It could be a cut or another type of open wound, or it could be closed, like a contusion or bruise.
FAQ
What can I put on my cats wound?
Is peroxide safe for cat wounds?
What antiseptic can I use on my cat?
Can you put Neosporin on a cat wound?