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Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of infection (pus) that forms when bacteria are trapped under the skin. Common in cats and dogs after bite wounds, where teeth and claws puncture the skin and introduce bacteria.
Key Facts
- Animal bites are the most common cause; bacteria get sealed under skin as puncture wounds heal
- May feel swollen, warm, and are often extremely painful
- Anal gland abscesses can mimic rectal bleeding
- Tooth root abscesses form below the eye and require tooth extraction, not just antibiotics
- Treatment ranges from medical therapy (small) to surgical drainage with latex drains (large)
- Warm compresses 2x daily for 3-5 days after drainage aids healing
- Species: dogs and cats