Your cat can easily pick up all sorts of bumps, cuts and scrapes on their travels.
Sometimes, the only thing you can do is wrap your cat in a towel or put him in a carrier and take him straight to your veterinarian.
There are, however, a few things you can do at home - if your cat will let you - especially if it may be a while before you can get to your veterinarian.
1. Apply pressure if bleeding
If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound. The wound should be covered with sterile gauze or a clean cloth, and then pressure applied. It may take 5 to 10 minutes for bleeding to stop. Once it does, tape the gauze in place; removing it may remove the clot and bleeding will restart.
2. Clean the wound
If there is no bleeding, and the cut or scrape appears minor, try cleaning the wound. Use an antiseptic solution or plain water and gauze or a cloth (not cotton) to gently clean around the wound, and a syringe or similar device to flush the solution over the surface of the wound. Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on the wounds, as these will actually damage the tissue. Povidone should be diluted to the colour of weak tea; chlorhexidine should be diluted to pale blue.
3. Clean around the edges
If the laceration is long or deep, or if it is a puncture wound, you can clean around the edges as already described, but do not flush the wound itself. Let the veterinarian do that.
4. Follow up with a vet
Once you have done all that you can, take your cat to your veterinarian.
5. Check for infections
While the wound is healing, check the injury every couple of days for infection, and keep an eye on your cat's health, looking out for any weight loss, fatigue or loss of appetite.
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