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Question:

Saw one of our locacl cats with a hole in his stomach without bleeding.

I'm really worried and could use some advice. So, there's this sweet neighborhood cat that hangs out around my yard a lot. I've kind of unofficially adopted him—I feed him and give him water, and he usually seems pretty healthy. But today, I noticed something really troubling. When he came up to me for a snack, I saw that he has this gaping hole in his stomach. It looks like a significant wound, but strangely, there was no blood. It's almost like the skin is open but dry, if that makes any sense. I haven't seen anything like it before, and I'm not sure if I need to do something ASAP or if there's a chance it's healing on its own. I might sound paranoid, but I’m really attached to this little guy, and I hate seeing him in this condition. Has anyone dealt with something like this before? What should I do? I want to help him but don't know where to start.

Answer:

Hello and thank you for reaching out about this concerning situation. A hole or wound in a cat's stomach can be alarming, even if there isn't any visible bleeding. This might be due to various reasons such as an insect or animal bite, an abscess that has burst, or even a traumatic injury like a puncture wound.



Without immediate bleeding, it's possible that the wound has been there long enough to start healing or it might not be actively bleeding at the moment. However, the presence of a hole or open wound can still pose a risk of infection or other complications.



If this cat is accessible and approachable, you can gently clean the area with warm water and mild soap, but avoid using any harsh chemicals or human ointments. Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like redness, swelling, pus, or a foul odor. Watch also for any changes in the cat's behavior, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or distress, which might indicate a more serious issue needing immediate attention.



Given the potential risks, it would be best to have a veterinarian examine this cat as soon as possible to ensure proper treatment. If the cat is feral or difficult to handle, contacting a local animal rescue might help you get him the care he needs.



I would encourage you to book a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can discuss this further and help you with the next steps.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

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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.
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