Cleaning wounds in cats – veterinary guide for Dubai pet owners

Why do we clean wounds on cats?

Wound cleaning is vital to support healing and prevent infection.

• Reducing contamination from bacteria and debris
• Removing foreign material or dead tissue
• Creating the best conditions for healing, whether the wound is stitched or left open

Some wounds will be sutured (stitched) to speed up healing, while others are left open due to their location, size, or risk of contamination.

How are wounds cleaned in cats?

Cuts, lacerations, and bite wounds

• Sterile lubricant is applied to protect the wound during hair clipping.
• Surrounding fur is shaved for better visibility and hygiene.
• Initial flushing removes dirt and debris.
• Dead tissue and foreign material are removed.
• Thorough wound flushing with sterile saline, or diluted antiseptics (chlorhexidine, or povidone-iodine).
• Sutures are placed if required and appropriate.
• A protective covering or bandage is applied, where appropriate, particularly for open wounds.

Abscesses

• The abscess is lanced and pus is drained.
• The wound is flushed thoroughly.
• A temporary drain may be placed to prevent reaccumulation of fluid and allow healing.

How to look after your cat until seeing a vet

• Keep the wound clean and dry until assessed by a vet
• Prevent your cat from licking or scratching the wound
• Apply gentle pressure if the wound is bleeding
• Avoid home bandaging, which can worsen the injury if too tight, loose or slipping
• If sedation or anaesthesia is required, you may need to fast your cat overnight beforehand

Why your cat may need sedation or general anaesthetic

Many wounds, particularly those requiring sutures, need sedation or general anaesthesia:

• Reduces stress and anxiety for your cat
• Allows the vet to thoroughly clean the wound
• Essential for surgery, such as removing dead or contaminated tissue and stitching wounds
• For ongoing pain relief during the procedure

Cost of wound cleaning in Dubai

Costs vary depending on wound severity and clinic type. A rough guide:

• Minor superficial wounds (no surgery): approx. AED 200–700
• Wounds requiring sedation/anaesthetic with stitches: from AED 800 upwards, depending on the severity of the wound and the complexity of the repair
• Advanced surgery (in-dwelling drains, skin grafts, tissue flaps): costs are specific to the procedure for the individual feline patient

Additional considerations:

• Repeated bandage changes, possibly needing sedation
• Prescribed medications: antibiotics, painkillers
• Imaging (x-rays/ultrasound): if internal injury/foreign body is suspected
• Swabs for bacterial culture: where infection is present, to aid effective antibiotic selection

Is wound cleaning safe for cats?

Wound cleaning is generally safe. Vets minimise risks through careful monitoring and professional care. Potential risks include:

• Minor bleeding: removing a scab or clot; minimised by a gentle approach
• Infection or wound breakdown: a risk with heavily contaminated wounds, ‘old’ injuries and certain locations (near paws, tail tips, and over-bendy locations like joints)
• Rarely, anaesthesia-related complications

Dubai-specific considerations:

• Higher infection risks from heat, humidity, and environmental bacteria
• Sand and dust exposure demands heightened precaution
• Harsh climate conditions can accelerate wound deterioration

How to help your cat after wound cleaning

The hot, humid environment in Dubai favours the rapid growth of bacteria, making effective wound care all the more essential to prevent infection and complications.

• Follow your vet’s aftercare instructions carefully.
• Keep wounds and dressings clean and dry.
• Check the wound daily for swelling, discharge, or redness.
• Prevent licking with a buster (cone) collar or pet medical suit.
• Limit exercise and keep your cat indoors until the wound has healed.
• Administer all prescribed medications at the correct time and dose.
• Only use topical treatments recommended by your vet.

When to worry about wounds in cats

Seek urgent veterinary care if:

• The wound is deep or large
• Bleeding can’t be controlled
• Signs of infection develop, such as pus, redness, swelling, or a bad smell
• Your cat appears to be in pain or unwell

For smaller injuries or if you are unsure, contact your vet for guidance.

Concerned about your cat’s wound or injury? Book a check-up or emergency appointment today at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Our experienced veterinary team provides expert wound assessment, cleaning, and treatment, along with follow-up care to support healing. Whether it’s a minor cut, abscess, or more serious injury, Modern Vet Hospital is here as your trusted clinic in Dubai for compassionate, comprehensive feline care.