How long should I keep my cat indoors after an infected bite?

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.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Sorry to hear that Oliver was sick but I am glad he is feeling better now. Your vet probably told you to keep Oliver inside for a week so that he is not spreading disease to other cats outside. Either that or your vet did not want his immune system stressed with all the potential pathogens that he could encounter outside. Even when they are better after a few days they could still be contagious to other animals. I would wait the entire week before you let him outside like your vet recommended. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

It is not ideal for him to go outside. He may not come back on time for his antibiotics then he will miss doses. He could also get reinjured or the infected area can get dirty. I understand your dilemma but it would be better if he stayed inside. If you want to let him out that is up to you. Just monitor him closely.

No, the swelling should not still be there after a week. Cat bites get infected very easily so Oliver probably needs antibiotics and anti-inflammatories to get this to clear up fully. The swelling you are seeing is either an abscess or cellulitis. He really needs to see your vet for this. Here is a link about cat bites that will give you more in-depth information. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/wounds-fight-wound-infections-in-cats There is nothing I can recommend you give him at home.Cats are very sensitive to over the counter medications (unlike dogs) and you could really cause him some harm if you try to give him any of those. He really needs medications prescribed by your vet. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Yes, antibiotics needs to be given for 10-14 days for a bite to prevent an infection from developing, Billie received an injection called Convenia which is an antibiotic injection that works for 14 days. the 2 first injections might have been unnecessary though (i usually give the convenia and that's it).

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear about your kitties. Most likely is actually other cats, though raccoons or other wild animals are possible. Insect bites/stings rarely cause wounds in cats (the exception being uncommon venomous spiders). Clean all the wounds with dilute iodine or hydrogen peroxide and keep them all indoors until they are fully healed. If any cat seems painful or has a wound that is hot to the touch, painful, or swollen, that cat needs to see the vet for a more thorough cleaning and probably antibiotics. Of course I also suggest that they remain indoor cats if possible to do so. Best of luck to you and the kitties!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Stormy! I would shave the fur away from the wound then clean it well with water and a mild soap (avoid hydrogen peroxide). Then apply triple antibiotic ointment twice daily. The most important thing is to have Stormy wear and E-collar to prevent licking and keep him indoors. He should see a Vet as soon as possible to at a minimum get antibiotics but to also see if surgery is required to close the wound. I would call your local SPCA to see if they offer a low cost Veterinary clinic. I hope this helps and I wish Stormy a speedy recovery!