Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet ClinicGlossary
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

What might've caused the stray cat to have such a big wound? (TW gory pic)

I'm feeling really concerned and could really use some advice. There's this stray cat that's been hanging around our neighborhood for a while. We've been feeding her and she's warmed up to us recently, but today she showed up with a really big, nasty wound on her side. It's so distressing to see—it looks deep and raw, and I can't stop worrying about what could've happened to her. I don't know if it's from a fight, an accident, or something else entirely. I’ve gently cleaned it with saline solution, but I’m not sure what more I can do. We’re trying to get her to the vet, but she’s still skittish and doesn’t really trust us enough to get in a carrier. Has anyone dealt with a situation like this before? How can I help her until we get her professional care? Thanks in advance for any guidance you can share.

Answer:

Hi there! I'm sorry to hear about the stray cat’s wound. Cats can develop large wounds for several reasons. Often, they result from fights with other animals, particularly other cats. These wounds can quickly become infected, leading to abscesses that eventually burst, leaving large open sores. It’s also possible the cat had an accident, like getting caught on something sharp or being hit by a car.



To help this little one, you can gently clean the wound with warm saline solution or diluted antiseptic to prevent infection. Ensure the cat is in a quiet, safe place where it can rest and not be disturbed.



Keep an eye on signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul-smelling discharge. If the cat seems lethargic, stops eating, or has a fever, these could be signs that the infection is worsening. In such cases, prompt veterinary attention is critical.



Given the potential for serious complications, it’s important to have a vet evaluate the wound. Consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can take a closer look and guide you further on ensuring the cat gets the care it needs. Let's help make sure this kitty gets back to feeling its best!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
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.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Cat A has virus. Vet says wait it out. Now cat B has virus. Follow steps for cat A??
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Any exotics vets in the house?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Elderly Cat's fine, except he's not fine?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
[DOG] Yellow vomit every 2/4 days
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links