Feral cat reopening neck wound - E collar?

Hi there! It sounds like you're doing great work caring for a feral cat, which can be quite a challenge. Seeing a wound repeatedly reopen can be distressing. The most common reasons for a wound to reopen include excessive licking or scratching, infection, or even an underlying health condition that slows healing.

An Elizabethan collar, or E-collar, can be helpful in preventing the cat from further irritating the wound with scratching or licking. However, it can sometimes be tricky to put one on a feral cat if they’re not used to handling.

In terms of at-home care, try to keep the wound clean and dry. You can gently clean it with a diluted antiseptic solution, but be careful not to drench it. Ensure the cat has a clean, safe space to recover, away from other animals that might disturb it.

Watch for signs like increased swelling, redness, pus, or a foul odor, as these can suggest infection. Also, monitor the cat for signs of pain or if it stops eating and drinking, as these are indicators that the issue might require professional attention.

Given the complexities here, I suggest booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to provide tailored advice and help guide you on what steps to take next.