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My cat was bitten. When to see a vet and how long will the wound heal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 1 year and 6 months old

We just discovered that our cat has been injured. I think it can be another cat that bit him. Some hair is missing and there is a bit of blood in the wound; however it is not actively bleeding. How can we clean the wound or do you think we should we visit a vet? How long do you think it will take to heal? We don't know how long he has had that and he behaves as usual (sleeps a lot)

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 30th, 2019

I would recommend for your kitty to see the veterinarian. Infections tend to heal significantly faster and with less complications with antibiotics. You also will need to make sure he does not lick at the wound as this will make it worse. Have him wear an Elizabethan collar at all times and keep him indoors until it is healed. Typical healing is expected to take 10 to 14 days in most circumstances. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on May 25th, 2017
That is a huge abscess that should be treated by a vet immediately. Cat bites are very prone to becoming infected and often require veterinary care to properly clean them and provide a round of antibiotics. In severe cases, surgical treatment of the area or a drain needs to be placed to allow the area to heal. You should bring Jackie to the vet ASAP.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on October 30th, 2018
You can definitely give it a few days as antibiotics can take 2-3 days to fully kick in, if an abscess has formed the healing process will probably be a little longer. in some cases antibiotics are not enough and the abscess might need to be lanced and cleaned in order for it to heal properly, you should probably reassess the situation in a couple days.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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