Question: I have a problem with my 4-year-old cat. He has sores all along his back. Is there anything I can do for him? I have no idea what it is, and am super worried about my little guy.
As of right now we don?t have the money to take him to the vet. I feel bad for him because we just can?t afford to take him, or we would in a second. He is still active and such a good cat. I would hate it if anything happened to him. My dad suggested that I rub Skin-So-Soft along his back. I?m not sure if that would be okay do more harm? If it would not help or maybe even do harm to my poor cat, what else could I do? Please help. – Michelle
Answer: I know you love your sweet boy and you want to help him. Please do not put ointments or gels on your cat. Keep in mind that your cat grooms himself by licking with his tongue. Anything you apply topically will be ingested by him during the grooming process. Many products that are safe for humans or dogs are toxic to cats.
We need to try and determine what caused the sores. Fleas, mites, mosquitoes, and other parasites can cause intense itching and the sores can become infected. Make sure he doesn?t have any fleas or parasites.
Fight wounds from other cats can become infected and cause sores. If this is the case, you will need to bathe him in a Betadyne shampoo. Betadyne is a mild antibacterial shampoo that can be purchased over the counter. Let it sit on for 10 minutes then rinse it completely. If your cat is itchy, you can also use an oatmeal and aloe shampoo to soothe the skin. Shampoo therapy can often help in the early stages with infections. You may need to shampoo every few days. More severely infected wounds may need antibiotics. Keep him inside and don?t allow him to go outside.
If these products don?t work, he may have a more complex problem such as allergic skin disease or even cancer. He will need to go to a veterinarian to find out what is causing the sores. Perhaps there is a rescue group or humane society near you that could help.
Dr. Baker
Baker Veterinary Clinic
1801 S. Congress Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
Read more articles by Dr. Baker | Ask her a question
Source: http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/pawshere/2012/05/04/dont-use-human-ointmentsgels-on-cats/
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