Description: An abscess is an area of infection under the skin, which is usually evident by a very painful, hot swelling. Frequently, the cat may have a high fever and may be lethargic and not willing to eat. If the infection is deep, the only symptom may be lameness or pain when being handled.

If untreated, the abscess may rupture and drain pus that usually will contain some blood.

Cause: Abscesses are usually caused by bite wounds from another cat. The types of bacteria cats carry in their mouths have the potential to cause very serious infections. Abscesses are more common in unneutered males because of their roaming and fighting habits, but can occur in any cat that has received a wound.

Treatment: If a wound is discovered before an infection is established it may be possible to avoid an abscess by disinfecting the wound and using antibiotics. If an abscess is already established, then it is essential that the infection be drained. This may make it necessary to administer an anesthetic so the abscess can be lanced, drained and sutured into the abscess to allow any further drainage. (it is important to note that the fluid drains mainly on the outside of the tube and that the drain be cleaned or hot packed several times daily to ensure proper drainage.)

Following surgery, antibiotics are administered for 7 - 10 days and the drain is left in place for 3 - 5 days.

Complications and Side Effects: If neglected, many abscesses may extend into deeper tissues or the infection could enter the blood stream and may cause serious, even fatal injury to vital organs such as the heart or kidney. Even if the abscess ruptures on its own, without proper and aggressive treatment, the infection may not drain completely and the abscess may flare up again.