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My cat has a head scab. Does it need a vet or is it a scratch?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

My cat lives indoors at all times, with no other animals. He has this on the top of his head. It scabbed over and the scab fell off revealing this. Do you think this is something I need to take him to a vet for, or does it look like more of just a scratch?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 3rd, 2019

Poor cat. This looks wide enough where it should at the very least get a topical treatment. You can try an over the counter antibitoic ointment or spray from your local pet store. Ask a store representative as to what is available in your area. You should also clean this area with Betadine diluted 50:50 with warm water to help keep bacteria and infection at bay.

If it doesn't seem to be healing well in the next few days, then a vet visit is warranted at that point.

I hope that this heals up well soon! Best of luck moving forward. Take care. : )

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 5th, 2017
Poor cat. He probably has a little infection at the site where he scraped the skin off, which makes it very itchy and irritable. You can try to cleanse the area with Betadine diluted 50:50 with warm water and a thin layer of topical Neosporin can be applied twice a day, if the cut is not too deep.
If the wound does not improve within a few days then it is best to just get your vet involved who will likely give your kitty antibiotics and any other treatments depending on the state of the wound. You can also ask your vet about prescribing a calming medication or sedative (if needed) so that kitty doesn't keep trying to mess with the sore area, allowing it heal properly. I hope your kitty heals soon. Take care!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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