Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Cat wound - what counts as a scab & how to clean?

I really need some advice. My cat, Whiskers, got into a bit of a tussle with another neighborhood cat a few days ago, and now he has this wound on his back. I’ve noticed that it's starting to crust over, but I'm not sure if it's forming a proper scab or if it might be something else, like pus or an infection. I've been gently trying to keep it clean with a damp cloth, but I'm worried I might be doing it wrong or missing a step. How do I know if what's forming is a healthy scab, and what’s the best way to clean it without causing Whiskers more pain or discomfort? Any tips or reassurance would be amazing, as I'm kind of freaking out over here. Thanks so much!

Answer:

Hi there! It sounds like you're keeping a close eye on your kitty, which is great! When your cat gets a wound, a scab is a natural part of the healing process. It appears as a dry, slightly raised area with a crusty layer that forms as their body heals the underlying tissue. Essentially, it's nature's band-aid protecting the new skin forming underneath.



Cleaning the area gently is key to preventing infection. You can use some saline solution, which is just a mix of salt and water, to clean the wounded area. Simply soak a clean cloth or a cotton ball in the saline and gently dab the wound. Avoid picking at the scab since it protects the healing skin beneath.



Keep an eye out for signs like swelling, redness, a bad odor, or pus, as these could indicate an infection needing a vet's attention. Also, if your cat seems uncomfortable or is grooming the area excessively, it might be time for a closer look.



If you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We can take a look and guide you on the best next steps for your furry friend.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Should I make my cat NPO before vet appt for possible abdominal imaging?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Seasonal Skin Allergies in dog?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Embarrassed to take my cat to the vet (follow up)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I need opinions on my kitten with mycoplasma and elevated tumor markers please
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links