Abscesses in cats

Abscesses in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Macindoe
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

What to do

Causes

When to worry

Prevention

Diagnosis

Home treatment

Vet treatment

Risks

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Abscesses in cats

Abscesses in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Macindoe
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

An abscess in cats is an area of pus caused by a localised bacterial infection. Abscesses can develop in different parts of the body and affect cats of any age.

There are many different causes of abscesses. The most common types of abscesses are easy and quick to treat. There are less common types (mostly internal) that can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Abscesses are painful for cats, we always recommend speaking to a veterinarian to discuss the best treatment.

What to do if your cat has an abscess >What to do if your cat has an abscess [What to do

Common causes of abscesses in cats >Common causes of abscesses in cats [Causes

When you should be worried about abscesses in cats >When you should be worried about abscesses in cats [When to worry

Tips on how to prevent your cat from getting abscesses >Tips on how to prevent your cat from getting abscesses [Prevention

How to know if your cat has an abscess >How to know if your cat has an abscess [Diagnosis

How to treat abscesses in cats at home >How to treat abscesses in cats at home [Home treatment

Vet treatment for abscesses in cats >Vet treatment for abscesses in cats [Vet treatment

Are some cats at more risk of abscesses than others? >Are some cats at more risk of abscesses than others? [Risks

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