Does Your Pet Have an Abscess? Identifying and Treating Abscesses in Pets

Abscesses are painful, pus-filled infections that can affect pets, and they often go unnoticed until they become serious. Unlike humans, pets are not vocal about their discomfort, which can make it challenging for pet owners to recognize health issues early on. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms associated with abscesses can help you take swift action to get your furry friend the care they need.

What Do Abscesses Look Like?

Abscesses often manifest as unusual swellings or lumps on your pet’s body. These lumps can be hidden beneath fur, making them difficult to detect. If an abscess ruptures, you may notice oozing pus or a foul odor emanating from the site. It’s essential to note that abscesses can also form deep within the body, out of sight, which makes them even harder to identify.

How Do Pets Get Abscesses?

There are several ways your pet can develop an abscess:

Injuries from Bites or Scratches: Pets that engage in rough play with other animals or encounter wild animals may suffer minor injuries that can become infected.
Skin Breaks: Even small scratches can allow bacteria to enter the skin, leading to infections.
Bacterial Infections: Certain breeds like English Bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, and Chinese Shar-Pei are more susceptible due to their short hair, which can result in ingrown hairs.

Other causes of abscesses can include:

Impacted anal glands
Damaged or decayed teeth
Blood infections
Sinus or ear infections
Pneumonia

What Are the Signs of Abscesses?

Symptoms of an abscess can vary based on its location, but common signs include:

Redness and Swelling: The skin around the abscess may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
Licking: Your pet may excessively lick the affected area, leading to hair loss.
Fever: The infection can cause your pet’s body temperature to rise.
Coughing: Coughing or difficulty breathing may indicate a lung abscess.
Loss of Appetite: A general malaise can make food unappealing to your pet.
Facial Swelling: A tooth abscess may cause swelling around the eye or jaw.
Scooting: Pets with impacted anal glands may scoot their bottoms on the ground to relieve discomfort.
Pain and Fatigue: Abscesses can be painful, causing limping or lethargy in your pet.

How Are Abscesses Treated?

If you suspect your pet has an abscess, it is crucial to consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital promptly. Treatment may involve:

Surgical Drainage: If the abscess hasn’t ruptured, a veterinarian will perform a minor surgical procedure to drain the pus.
Antibiotics: Regardless of whether the abscess bursts or is drained, your pet will need antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading.
Additional Care: In some cases, intravenous (IV) fluids or anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary. If a tooth is the source of the infection, it may need to be extracted.

How Can Abscesses Be Prevented?

While it may not be possible to prevent all abscesses, you can reduce your pet’s risk by following these tips:

Prompt Wound Care: Clean any open wounds with warm water and apply antibiotic ointment. If the wound is deep or bleeding excessively, consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital.
Indoor Living for Cats: Keeping your cat indoors can minimize the chances of fights with other animals and other injuries.
Anal Gland Care: Regularly expressing your dog’s anal glands can prevent infections. Consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital or your groomer for assistance.
Regular Dental Care: Schedule routine dental cleanings for your pet to prevent tooth decay, which can lead to abscesses.

Conclusion

If you think your pet may have an abscess, don’t hesitate to call our office to schedule an appointment for your companion. Early detection and treatment are key to ensuring your pet’s health and comfort.

If you need more help or have any questions, call us at Acacia Pet Hospital, acaciapetclinic.com, (408) 264-6354, 4486 Pearl Ave, San Jose, CA 95136,
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm or visit us online.