My cat has a spot on his skin. When should I take him to the vet?

Hello and thank you for your question.

That spot on Floyd could be several things including a wound, allergies, skin mites, bacterial infection or ringworm (which humans can get).

From the photo, that doesn't look like a puncture wound but if you find one or if there is a potential this is a fight wound, I recommend to have him examined within 24 hours. Bite wounds often become infected. If treated with antibiotics early, abscesses are less likely to form.

There are a couple things you can do at home and they can help but they may not address the underlying cause. You can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for pets, this can help improve the skin health. You can wash the lesion once a day with a medicated wipe for cats (not his whole body, just the lesion) if he will allow you. Don't get bitten. Just so you know, cat bites almost always get infected and could land you in the hospital. Also protect the area from trauma by having your kitty wear an elizabethan collar at all times.

If the lesion does not start improving within a week or if it is getting worse, have him examined by the veterinarian.

I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.