My cat has scabs from a dog bite. What signs of infection to watch for?

Hello. I am so sorry for Minkah's run-in with the other cat. You are right on target watching for any redness, swelling or discharge from the scratches that might indicate some infection. You might just lightly dab the scratches with a little peroxide just to keep things clean. It is very unlikely that you have to worry about anything significant, especially rabies, since this was just a scratch & the other cat is primarily an indoor cat. So, if the scratches begin to look worrisome, or Minkah acts painful or uncomfortable ( which is pretty unlikely ), do contact your veterinarian for further treatment. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It is never wrong to have something checked out to be on the safe side. That said, if the scab is superficial and there is now swelling around it then I think it would be ok to monitor for 24 hours or so for any changes. If it gets larger, swollen, or tender to the touch then she should be seen as soon as possible. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Skin cancer is unlikely at that age. It is more likely that there is an infection there which did not clear up as antibiotics are needed. Bite wounds must be considered always infected. A check up is needed. Your veterinarian will flush the wound first and prescribe local or systemic antibiotics.

I'm sorry to hear that your cats are not getting along. That can be very frustrating. You may want to try adding ia pheromone diffuser, like Feliway, to your home because these can help ease some of your cat's anxiety. You may also want to consider talking to your vet about getting your more aggressive cat on anxiety medication. This may help make things easier between the cats so you don't have to worry about them fighting all the time. As far as taking care of Winston, keep a close eye on him for now. Make sure he is continuing to eat and drink. And also, it goes without saying, keep him separated from the other cat. Look for any lumps or swelling that could indicate an abscess forming. If Winston stops eating, becomes lethargic, or you noticed a swelling, then you should definitely take him to the vet. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Have you put any medicine on that area such as flea prevention before it was noticed? Sometimes that is a sign of a reaction from a topical. Another area to check is his ears, sometimes they can scratch their neck instead and. Cause a wound if there is an infection or mites. If it doesn't improve then your vet can check for an infection or an allergy that could cause it

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Panda. I would monitor this closely. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, and loss of function so if you notice this getting worse or other signs develop, take him back to have him re-evaluated. You can use some topical Neosporin or similar antibiotic ointment on the incision. Just make sure if doesn't contain hydrocortisone or a steroid. Good luck

That does look suspicious for a bite though it could also be a scab for many reasons. I recommend to have him examined by the veterinarian if there is a chance he got in a fight. Bites often turn into abscesses and giving him an antibiotic as soon as you see the wounds can help prevent that. I hope this helps.