Cat scratching neck area after small wound is healed

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Amethyst
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Joined: Sat Sep 29, 2007 8:57 pm
Location: Mesa, AZ

Cat scratching neck area after small wound is healed

Post by Amethyst »

My inside cat had a small wound under her "chin" that healed - then she started scratching and has taken off the fur in most of her neck area - with her foot and by stretching her head waaaay back licking the area.

She was hiding (living under the bathroom sink) and has lost a little weight but is eating, drinking, and using her kitty box. She is now out of hiding which I took to be a great sign, and exhibits lots less scratching but ---

It is possibly slightly infected but - a cat 'collar' would stop the licking but it's probably her foot that is infecting it and short of 'hogtying' her, no go.

I've swabbed it with rubbing alcohol and that cools it.

My car hasn't run since Easter so taking her to our vet is not an option unless she would get much worse.

Any suggestions ?

Thanks !

Amethyst
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Traci
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Re: Cat scratching neck area after small wound is healed

Post by Traci »

She needs to see your vet!

Do NOT put rubbing alcohol on any wounds, that's like putting alcohol on your own wounds, it hurts! Rubbing alcohol is only intended for antiseptic use, but NOT for wounds or open wounds!

Scratching excessively, hiding, losing weight are ALL RED FLAGS something is wrong, she needs to see your vet at once! If she happens to be 6 or older, you need to rule out hidden health conditions like hyperthyroidism, all cats over the age of 6 or 7 require yearly exams and full bloodwork to detect hidden illnesses early on and be able to treat effectively. Lesser rule outs might include flea allergy dermatitis, or mites, but it could also be anything from a serious skin condition to allergic response to food or something in her environment, to a more serious condition like hyperthyroidism, eosinophilic granuloma or a hidden internal illness that is causing pain (do not mistake her symptoms for not possibly being in pain). If the wound is infected and has persisted for some time, this could even be tumor activity, don't wait around to find out, GET HER TO YOUR VET ASAP.
..........Traci
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