Top 5 First Aid Tips for Cats
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Get the 411 on first aid for cats
First aid is an important skill to have, especially when it comes to your furry feline friends. Cats, like any other animal, can be prone to accidents and injuries, and being prepared to handle them can make a big difference in their health and well-being. Here are some first aid tips to keep in mind for cats:
- Keep a first aid kit on hand. This should include basic items such as gauze, bandages, scissors, tweezers, and adhesive tape. You should also have a pet-friendly antiseptic solution, as well as any medications that your cat regularly takes.
- Know how to properly handle your cat. Cats can be scared and defensive when they are injured, and it is important to handle them gently and carefully. Use a towel or blanket to wrap your cat, and hold them close to your body to provide support and comfort. These items can be helpful if you need to restrict their movement after an injury.
- Be prepared to handle bleeding. If your cat is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or gauze. If the bleeding is severe, or if it does not stop after a few minutes, call your veterinarian immediately.
- Keep your cat warm. Cats can go into shock when they are injured, and one of the most important things you can do is keep them warm. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel near your cat, and cover them with a blanket to retain heat.
- Monitor your cat closely. Even if your cat seems fine after an injury, it is important to keep a close eye on them for the next 24-48 hours. Watch for signs of infection, such as swelling or redness around the wound, a foul smell or discharge coming from the area. Look for signs of pain or irritation, such as excessive cleaning or rubbing of the affected area with their paw, as well as any changes in behavior or appetite.
Help your cat heal with a warm compress
If your cat has sustained a bite wound and an infection has set in, a warm compress can not only help your pet to feel more comfortable, but it also may help the abscess to open, drain and heal faster. After your veterinarian has first had a chance to assess your cat’s wound, she or he may prescribe a warm compress to help with healing. Here’s what you need to know:
- Run a clean wash cloth under hot water.
- Wring out the excess water so that the wash cloth is damp, but not too wet.
- The temperature should be warm, but not hot. A good rule is if the wash cloth is comfortable against your cheek, it is the right temperature for your cat. If it feels too hot against your own skin, it’s too hot for your cat. If the wash cloth is too hot, give it time to cool down before applying the compress to your cat’s wound.
- Apply gentle pressure to the wound. Rinse and reheat the wash cloth as it cools.
- Apply the compress for 5 – 10 minutes, several times a day.
- Be prepared for the wound to open and drain. This can be distressing for the pet and off-putting for the owner when it happens. Have clean towels ready to wipe away any discharge that may drain from the wound.
The process of applying a warm compress to a wound at a time when your cat is already hurting can be stressful for them, and they may protest. However, you can provide comfort by talking to them in a soothing voice while the compress applied or by offering them lots of love and perhaps a treat afterward.
Keep your kitty safe. Don’t treat them with human medications
Human pain medications, antibiotic ointments and wound disinfectants are specifically designed to treat humans, and can be highly toxic to pets. Our furry family members are wired to clean, and even the tiniest amount of human medication or herbal remedies can be extremely harmful when ingested.
Never give your pet a human medication unless your veterinarian has specifically prescribed it as a treatment.
It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for specific advice and guidance on caring for your cat. However, by being prepared and knowing what to do in case of an emergency, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your feline friend.
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