Cat Illnesses - Abscesses

Abscesses on cats are easy to spot and treat. They can be caused by a range of cat illnesses, but the most likely cause is bacterial infection of a puncture wound such as a bite, scratch, insect bite/sting or vet's needle. Cats that fight a lot are prone to abscesses.

Pain, swelling, sensitivity and the obvious physical appearance of the affected area make them hard to miss. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, rise in temperature and irritability.

It is vitally important to get abscesses treated as soon as possible. If they are not, potentially fatal blood poisoning is the most serious of a range of cat illnesses that can result. Draining and washing the wound will most likely be required, followed by a course of antibiotics and possibly fluid replacement.