Bite abscess in cats
Also known as Abscess, Infected cat bite.
A pocket of pus that appears days after a fight, because the canine teeth push bacteria under the skin. It is very common in males that go outdoors.
Fever, listlessness or a lump that grows quickly: see the vet the same day.
- System
- Skin and coat
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Consultation, drainage and medication, €80–250.
The abscess is not contagious, but a cat bite to a person also gets infected easily: see a doctor.
Symptoms
- Hot, painful lump
- Lameness if it is on a leg
- Fever and listlessness
- Stops eating
- Pus or a bad smell if it bursts
Causes
Bites from other cats, carrying bacteria such as Pasteurella.
How it is diagnosed
Examination. It is a good idea to test for FeLV and FIV a few weeks after the fight.
Treatment
Draining and cleaning, sometimes under sedation, plus antibiotics and pain relief prescribed by the vet.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Very good.
Prevention
Neutering and supervised outings, which greatly reduce fighting.
Frequently asked questions
Is bite abscess contagious?
No. The abscess is not contagious, but a cat bite to a person also gets infected easily: see a doctor.
Can bite abscess be cured?
Very good. Draining and cleaning, sometimes under sedation, plus antibiotics and pain relief prescribed by the vet.
How much does it cost to treat bite abscess?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Consultation, drainage and medication, €80–250. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
How can bite abscess be prevented?
Neutering and supervised outings, which greatly reduce fighting.
More in skin and coat
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.