I’m really beside myself right now and need some advice. My sweet little guy, Oliver, had a mishap earlier today. My partner and I were prepping dinner, and I guess I didn’t realize he’d snuck up on the counter. At that exact moment, our stove burner was still hot from boiling some water, and Ollie stepped right on it! He immediately yowled and jumped off, but I can tell his paw pads are badly burned. I’ve already run cool water over his paw and gently patted it dry, but he seems so uncomfortable. He keeps licking it and limping around, and my heart just breaks seeing him in pain like this. I’m not sure what more I can do to ease his discomfort until we can get to the vet first thing in the morning. Has anyone else been through something similar with their fur babies? Any tips would be so appreciated.
Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear about your kitty’s accident with the stove! Let’s focus on getting him comfortable and on the mend.
First, burns on a cat’s paw pads can range from mild to severe. It’s essential to assess the situation. If your cat is limping, holding up his paw, or seems to be in pain, it could indicate significant discomfort or damage. Blisters, swelling, and redness are signs of burns, and if you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to take action promptly.
Here’s what you can do at home: Begin by gently rinsing his paw with cool water for about 5 to 10 minutes. This can help soothe the burn and reduce swelling. Avoid using ice or very cold water. Then, dry it softly and keep the area clean to prevent infection. You might consider applying a clean, non-stick bandage to protect the paw if your cat will tolerate it.
Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like excessive swelling, pus, or a severe change in color, along with any behavioral changes, such as loss of appetite or lethargy. These could indicate a more serious issue that needs professional care.
For the best course of action and peace of mind, booking a video consult with Dial A Vet could be incredibly helpful. A vet can see how your cat is doing and offer specific advice tailored to his needs. Take care, and give your furry friend some extra cuddles for me!
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