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My cat has a squishy red lump with a puncture wound. Is it an abscess?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Female | spayed

My cat has a red looking lump that feels squishy and appears to be full of liquid with some crusty marks around it and looks as if there is a bite mark or puncture wound can you help

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Elva Ma DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2018

Hello, and thank you for your question. This looks very suspicious for an abscess (localized area of infection). The puncture wound may have been the entry point for bacteria to enter. I would recommend getting Angel to the vet within the next 1-2 days. They can take a sample of the fluid to confirm the nature of the mass, and start antibiotic therapy if it is an abscess.

In the meantime, I would ensure Angel does not scratch the area, by putting a scarf or e-collar (cone) on (it is difficult to say which would be best, as I can't tell the exact location of the lump in the photo). You can also try to disinfect the area by gently wiping with a dilute solution of betadine and water (1:10).

I hope this helps, and that Angel feels better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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