How to Treat Cat Lacerations and Cuts

Like kids, cats injure their skin in a myriad of ways that often result in lacerations and cuts. Many of these injuries are treatable at home by implementing basic first aid techniques. Here's how to save some money on your vet bill by treating your cat's lacerations and cuts yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Hot pack or hot washcloth
• Ice pack
• Sterile saline
• Gauze
• Tweezers
• Cotton swabs
• Scissors
• Clippers
• Antiseptic ointment or antibiotic cream
• Latex gloves

1. Approach your cat with caution to determine the cause of the laceration or cut if possible.
2. Check your cat's injuries closely for exposed bones or muscles. This indicates a more serious problem that requires veterinarian attention.
3. Trim any fur surrounding the cut or laceration. Sterilize scissors or clippers in hot water or rubbing alcohol before using.
4. Clean the area with warm water and soap, hydrogen peroxide or sterile saline. Never rub the wound. Instead, pour the cleanser over the wound or squeeze it from a sponge or cloth.
5. Flush out any gravel, dirt, hair or other debris from the laceration or cut. Use tweezers or cotton swabs if necessary.
6. Rinse the area with water, pat dry and apply a topical antibiotic ointment or cream purchased from your vet or pharmacy.
7. Wear latex gloves to avoid direct contact with the wound and decrease the likelihood of infection.
8. Use sterile gauze or a clean wash cloth over the area if the cut or laceration is bleeding. Apply direct pressure with an ice pack to minimize swelling, pain and bleeding. Consult your veterinarian if bleeding persists.
9. Take your cat to the veterinarian if you suspect the laceration or cut is infected or if the wound is deep. Antibiotics and suturing may be necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Hydrogen peroxide shouldn't be used in your cat's ears or in a deep, open wound. It destroys healthy tissue, can damage the eardrum and is generally unnecessary.