Cat scratched a sore from fleas. How do I cover it to prevent more scratching?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on February 26th, 2016

  Sores or scabs on a pets skin are a sign of scratching in this area. This is a common area for fleas and flea allergy. I would recommend that you use a "flea comb" to comb through the hair to look for evidence of fleas (black specs that turn red when mixed with a drop on water on a paper towel).
  
  If there are no fleas present then something else, perhaps atopy (environmental or food allergy) is at play here or another type of insect bite or topical irritant. I would recommend monitoring the area for further discomfort, itching/scratching. If there is discomfort then a vet visit is needed. However if there are just old scab wounds that are healing on their own and causing no pain, then I would recommend letting them run their course, it will most likely heal on its own.

  

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• Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

  Veterinary Technician

  Published on February 2nd, 2024

  Ouch! That does look like an irritated spot that's trying to heal. I would first try to clean the area as gently as possible so you can get a better look at it, and also try to keep it clean and dry to help it heal. If Nina is pawing at it at all, an Elizabethan (cone) collar can help reduce further irritation.
  
  Spots like these can be due to a number of things including cuts and scratches, parasite bites or allergic reactions (sometimes from topical medications as well), general allergies, skin infections, and more. If the area doesn't appear to be healing with home care, worsens, swells under the skin, or has other signs of an infection such as oozing debris, pain on touch, feeling hot to the touch, etc, then a vet visit is best to have a vet take a better look at it in person.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Ana M, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 1st, 2019

  Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tails. Fleas can be present in cats without actually seeing them. Allergic pets can have sore on their bodies due to a single flea bite every three weeks. So this is still a possibility. Unfortunately, if he has open or crusted over sores, he will likely need oral antibiotics to help his wounds heal. I would contact his veterinarian and see if a prescription medication can be given in advance of his appointment. Gabapentin, for example, can help to relax a cat and make the visit less stressful. In the meantime, you can place an E-collar on him to prevent any licking or biting of the wounds. I hope this information helps!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful