Abscess Treatment and Repair in Pets
An abscess is a localized pocket of infection that forms under the skin, most commonly caused by bite wounds, punctures, or bacteria entering through a small break in the skin. Abscesses are painful and can worsen quickly if not treated, making prompt veterinary care important.
- Small or less painful abscesses may be treated under sedation
- Larger, deeper, or more painful abscesses often require general anesthesia to allow thorough treatment and keep your pet comfortable and still
- Clip and clean the surrounding area
- Open and drain the abscess to remove infected material
- Thoroughly flush the area to reduce bacterial contamination
- Remove dead or infected tissue if necessary
- Close the wound when appropriate, or leave it partially open to allow continued drainage
Your pet will be sent home with:
- Pain medication to keep them comfortable
- Antibiotics to treat and control infection
- When a drain is placed, it is typically removed in 4–5 days
- Drain removal can be performed by our hospital or your primary care veterinarian (GP)
- If the wound is closed, sutures or staples generally need to be removed in 12–14 days
- A recheck appointment is important to ensure the infection has resolved and healing is progressing as expected
Our Goal
Our goal with abscess treatment is to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and support safe healing. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s recovery, please contact us, we’re happy to help.
