How to Give a Cat First Aid

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By Hillary Marshall
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (5 Ratings)

Cats are curious little creatures and that curiosity can lead them to injury. Cats have some unique first aid needs, but many of the first aid techniques used for humans are adequate for cats. Knowing how to properly administer first aid to your cat is important. It will reduce stress in an emergency situation and may help save precious time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Cuts, Bites and Wounds
To apply first aid to minor and superficial wounds at home, you will first want to wrap you cat in a towel. This will help your cat to feel more secure and also prevent injury to your self while you are administering the first aid to the cat. Apply gentle pressure to any bleeding, if bleeding does not subside on its own with 15 minutes contact a veterinarian. If the bleeding has stopped, flush the wound with clean water and cover it with a light dressing. You can also use a antibiotic cream, but keep the wound covered so your cat does not ingest the cream.
Step 2

Stings and Insect Bites
Cats like humans occasionally get stung or bitten by an insect. Basic care for an insect sting or bite would include removal of any stingers and flushing of the wound with clean water. Typically, any swelling or irritation associated with an insect sting or bite should subside within a two days. However, if you cat shows signs of distress contact your veterinarian immediately.
Step 3

Burns
Occasionally, cats become burned by hot liquids and surfaces. Typically, a cat that is burned should see a veterinarian to make certain that it hasn't sustained any tissue damage. However, first aid is important to treat a burn prior to seeing your vet or in the case of a very minor burn. Cool the area with a damp clean towel. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes. Keep the wound clean and covered with a loose bandage until it begins healing.
Step 4

Bone or Muscle Injury
If your cat displays a limp or signs of a physical injury, you will want to check for any broken bones. Gently and carefully examine the cats limbs and body for any abnormalities. If your cat is staying off one paw or limping, examine that paw carefully. Apply gentle pressure to that paw by pressing it to spread the toes. Check for broken nails or anything stuck in your cats paw. Remove anything stuck in your cats paw carefully with sterile tweezers. If your cat has nothing stuck in their paw and they are limping, consultation with a veterinarian is necessary. Place your cat in a travel sized crate to limit their movement until they can be seen.

Comments

davida8575 said

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on 8/3/2009 Glad to see someone trying to help us take care of cats. I love cats. However, like they say: Curiosity killed the cat.

tundranut said

on 3/4/2009 Super article to help kitties. Thanks! 5*

MillerTime said

on 3/4/2009 Great information! Just recently acquired cats and it is surprising how much trouble they can get into!

CraftyStageGerl said

on 3/4/2009 my cats are always getting into stuff, so this is great info to know! Definitely recommend the towel especially with cats that are not declawed.