Abscess in Dogs and Cats
An abscess is a pocket of infected material, or pus, consisting of bacteria or other organisms, as well as red and white blood cells.
How do Dogs and Cats get Abscesses?
This type of infection has many causes. Often, a bite or other penetrating wound carries bacteria into the tissues. Infection builds at the site, which produces pus. If the pus has no place to drain out of the body, an abscess forms under the skin or in deeper tissues, causing significant damage and endangering the pet.
Abscess in Dogs and Cats - Symptoms
If the pus has no place to drain out of the body, an abscess forms under the skin or in deeper tissues, causing significant damage and endangering the pet.
· A painful area on your pet's body
· Swelling, or mass with bruising and foul smelling discharge at the site
· Depression
· Fever
· Reluctancy to move
· Decreased appetite
· Decreased water intake
Abscess Diagnosis & Treatment
Abscesses are diagnosed using symptoms, examination findings, history, blood testing and sometimes x-rays. Treatment depends on the severity of the abscess. Antibiotics are needed to control infection. Many abscesses require surgical removal of infected tissue and drainage. Often a surgical drain will need to be left in place for a few days. Good wound care and cleaning are essential to speed the healing process.
Post-Treatment and Prevention Tips
Good wound care and cleaning are essential to speed the healing process.
Snowden Animal Hospital Cloverdale BC - Contact
Connect on Social - FaceBook
** Snowden Animal Hospital - a dedicated Veterinary Staff offering their services for complete well being of your companion animals including preventative pet healthcare. We are very proud to offer our Veterinary services in Cloverdale, Surrey, Langley, Delta, White Rock, South Surrey, Newton and surrounding areas.