I don't know what's going on, but my poor kitty seems to be having a rough time. Yesterday evening, I noticed a strange wound on her back leg, and it looked like it was oozing some red stuff, maybe blood? I tried to clean it a little, but she was having none of it and ran under the bed. She's been acting kind of off, hiding more than usual and not really interested in dinner last night or breakfast this morning. I'm pretty worried and not sure if I should try to bandage it myself or take her straight to the vet. Has anyone else had something like this happen with their cats? What should I do next?
Thanks for reaching out; that definitely sounds concerning. A bleeding, oozing wound on your kitty's leg can be distressing. This could have been caused by an injury, a bite, a scratch, or even an underlying skin infection. First, it's important to gently clean the area with warm water and mild soap to remove any debris. You can also use a saline solution if you have it on hand.
Ensure your kitty is indoors, where they're safe from further injury and you can monitor them closely. Encourage them to rest and keep the wound from becoming contaminated. Discourage licking by using an Elizabethan collar if possible. Watch for signs that the wound might be serious, such as swelling, increasing redness, or if there's a strong odor or pus, which could indicate an infection.
If you notice changes in your cat’s behavior, like hiding or eating less, that can also be a sign of discomfort or a more severe issue. It’s crucial to get a clear picture of what’s going on, so I’d recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets via Dial A Vet to guide you on the next steps. They’ll help ensure your kitty gets the care they need.
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