TL;DR: An oozing skin sore that refuses to heal requires a veterinary examination within 24 to 48 hours to rule out deep infection, systemic issues, or skin cancer.
What causes a non-healing, oozing skin sore in my cat?
- Deep bacterial infections or abscesses
- Complex issues like eosinophilic granulomas
- Skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma
- Underlying systemic health issues that prevent the body's natural repair process
Is my cat's non-healing skin sore considered a veterinary emergency?
- The urgency level for a non-healing, oozing sore is classified as Medium.
- Schedule a veterinary appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
- Seek immediate care if the sore is accompanied by extreme lethargy, loss of appetite, or a foul odor to prevent sepsis.
How does sending a photo help the veterinarian triage my cat's condition?
- Allows a professional to assess the color and consistency of the discharge and the condition of the surrounding skin.
- Helps determine whether the cat needs an emergency slot or a standard appointment.
- Enables the clinical team to prepare the necessary diagnostics before you arrive.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cats, non-healing, oozing skin sores can be caused by Cuterebra larval migration, squamous cell carcinoma, feline proliferative and necrotizing otitis externa, or skin fragility syndrome associated with internal diseases such as pancreatic or hepatic neoplasia. Cuterebra lesions typically present as fistulous swellings, often with matted hair and subcutaneous swelling, and are more common in free-roaming cats. Squamous cell carcinoma, exacerbated by UV light exposure, can be treated with surgical excision, radiation therapy, or topical imiquimod cream. Feline proliferative and necrotizing otitis externa is a rare disease of unknown cause, while skin fragility syndrome presents with erythema, crusting, oozing, alopecia, hyperkeratosis, and ulceration.
Chapter: Parasitology, Dermatology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 880)