Common Types of Cat Injuries
While no owner wants to experience it, cat injuries are common, especially for those that live in the outside elements. Often, injuries are small and insignificant, which means that healing occurs on its own and in a short amount of time but other times, the cat would need to be seen by a veterinarian. In this article, we wanted to address some of the more common types of injuries that cats receive. Obviously, devoted cat owners want to make sure their pet is properly cared for and treated for any bad injury.
Nails
Unless a cat is kept indoors and has been declawed, cat injuries involving the nails are very common. Although not a life-threatening problem, torn or broken nails are usually very painful. The nail itself should be trimmed and cleaned and in most cases, it would grow back on its own but sometimes, if the injury is more serious infection could set in.
Insect Bites/Stings
Another common injury that cats experience is being bitten or stung by a variety of insects. This too is more painful than serious although if the insect were a poisonous spider, then the cat would need to be seen by an emergency veterinarian right away. The first thing would be for any stinger to be removed and then to provide relief, the owner could create a paste of oatmeal and milk, baking soda and water, or even use aloe vera applied directly to the wound to promote healing.
Snake Bites
For cats living in certain parts of the country, snakes bites might actually be common. For instance, in Arizona, rattlesnakes are seen in the desert so an outdoor cat would be at increased risk. While some snake bites are not fatal, some are so if a cat were to be bitten by a venomous snake, treatment would be required within 30 minutes.
Puncture Wounds
Another one of the common cat injuries seen has to do with cat fights. Unfortunately, this occurs often and when heated, one cat can easily bite another. Of course, puncture wounds could also be from dogs, as well as sharp objects. Regardless of the cause, all puncture wounds should be properly treated. This would include having the veterinarian clean the wound, apply ointment, and give the cat antibiotics, as well as possible pain medication.
Trauma of the Eye
The final injury we wanted to mention is when a cat’s eye becomes injured from being damaged from something sharp or dull. Usually, cat injuries such as this involve a cat fight but sometimes, cats can experience eye trauma from thorny bushes, tree branches, etc.
As mentioned, cat injuries are a part of this animal’s life and in most cases, the injuries are nothing to worry about but with deep wounds, those causing blood, or anything associated with a poisonous insect or snake should be seen immediately by a trained veterinarian.