My cat's wound won't heal because of excessive licking

Thanks for reaching out about your cat's wound — it does sound concerning. Excessive licking can indeed prevent wounds from healing properly, as a cat's rough tongue can irritate and reopen the healing tissue. This behavior might be due to itchiness, pain, or even stress.



First, try an Elizabethan collar (or "cone") to prevent your cat from reaching the wound. They're quite effective in deterring licking. You might also use a wound spray formulated for pets, which often has a bitter taste to discourage licking.



Keep the wound clean. Gently clean it with mild soap and water, and make sure it's dry before applying any pet-safe ointments. Offer your cat a quiet and stress-free environment, as stress can sometimes worsen the licking behavior.



Please monitor the wound closely. If you notice swelling, redness, discharge, or a foul odor, these may be signs of infection. An increase in your cat's discomfort or any signs of lethargy can also be cause for concern.



I recommend booking a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet as soon as possible to ensure the wound is assessed and treated properly, especially if there's no improvement or any signs of infection.