My cat's skin is crackly after fluids. How long will the air last?

The crackly/bubbly texture you describe is likely due to pockets of air under the skin following puncture wounds and infection and a full health check is recommended as antibiotics are likely required, especially as he is weak and hiding and most likely has a fever

Sometimes the skin and the subcutaneous space where the fluid was put can get sore, especially if there was a lot of fluid pressure. This should go away after a day or two. Next time Jack needs subcutaneous fluids ask the vet to divide the fluid up into two separate places, it might help keep it from being sore afterwards.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. A dog bite would almost always leave puncture wounds but perhaps a cat bite, another trauma (landed wrong, etc). In case it is a big abscess, I’d strongly recommend you see the vet as soon as possible. It will need to be lanced, drained, and flushed and Lady will need some antibiotics. It’s likely not an urgent emergency but the first available appointment tomorrow would be good. Best wishes to you and Lady!

Poor Migalo! I'm sorry that he's so sick. This sounds like a very serious problem - he needs to be seen by an emergency vet immediately. Bubbles or air under the skin is called subcutaneous emphysema, and is usually a result of a penetrating chest or throat injury. This would also explain why he is not eating and having trouble breathing. I would recommend taking him to the nearest veterinary ER immediately for an exam, x-rays, and treatment - it's very likely that he may die without immediate veterinary care. If you're not sure where to go, try calling your regular vet's office - their voicemail message should have contact information for your nearest emergency clinic, or an on-call doctor for emergencies.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about George. It is normal to have a lump of fluid develop where the subcutaneous fluids were given. This pocket of fluid will be absorbed over the next couple of hours. As long as you used a new needle to give the fluids, it is not likely you introduced an infection; even if you did, it would show up immediately. The lump will be due to the fluids, and again it is normal. It may feel a big uncomfortable to him for now, and I'd leave him be and let him hide. It should resolve in a few hours. I hope this helps.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Your vet is correct in saying that the subcutaneous fluids given to animals are the same as those given to humans. However, due to their pH, certain fluids can burn while being given subcutaneously as they react with the normal fluids in the body. I recommend asking your vet what type of fluids they recommend, what amount your cat needs, and to show you how to administer them. I sometimes recommend a numbing cream to facilitate the administration, only if there are no underlying medical conditions. If your cat has liver issues, fluids may help correct some of the symptoms, but other issues such as adequate nutrition need to be taken into account as well. I am happy to answer any other questions you may have!

A small amount of bloody water is normal if you hit a small capillary vessel with your needle. A couple drops that stops with some pressure is totally normal and not concerning at all. Fluid therapy is frequently very helpful for extended both life quantity and quality in cats, so it's probably necessary but you can talk to your vet if you want to clarify that.