Wounds and pets – what to do and when to call the veterinarian

Pets who have been injured often hide away, and don’t tolerate much handling of the sore area. If you think your pet is injured, it is always best to seek veterinary attention. There are many types of wounds, some more serious than others, but all wounds can be painful, and can become infected. Getting your pet to the veterinary surgery safely and quickly is important.  

©David Godfrey

Small cuts and grazes

Scrapes on the skin, and small, superficial wounds can be treated at home. Try to keep the area clean by bathing with cooled boiled water (if your pet will tolerate this). If the wound is dirty, or you are not sure how deep it is, always take your pet to the veterinary surgery. Keep wounds clean and dry and leave uncovered. Monitor closely, and seek advice if you notice any redness, swelling, discharge or a foul smell. Do not use any creams or ointments unless directed to do so by a veterinarian.

Surgical wounds

If your pet has had surgery, such as neutering, your veterinarian should give you information on what to look out for. Generally, surgical wounds should be kept dry and clean. Your pet must be rested, and any specific advice followed. Monitor closely, and seek advice if you notice any redness, swelling, discharge or a foul smell.

Bite wounds

Puncture wounds caused by a bite or fight may seem small, but can be very deep and often become infected. It is always best to have a bite wound seen by a veterinarian, as the wound may need cleaning or flushing, and antibiotics may be required. Snake bites must be seen immediately.

Large or deep wounds

More serious wounds can be difficult to manage and can become infected. If your pet has a large wound they may also have lost a lot of blood and the wound may need to be stitched. It can be difficult to examine wounds properly whilst the animal is conscious as they will be painful, and so your pet may need to be admitted to the hospital for some sedation or anesthesia. The wound may be flushed and closed with stitches or staples, and may have a dressing placed over it. A collar may need to be worn to prevent your pet licking or chewing at the wound.

In general, most wounds will require veterinary attention, unless they are very superficial scratches or scrapes. Some wounds will need urgent veterinary attention and you should contact your veterinary surgery straight away for an urgent appointment:

• Continuous or severe bleeding – a small amount of oozy blood is manageable, but if a wound is continuing to drip, ooze or gush blood then your pet needs urgent attention.
• Large wounds – open wounds larger than a coin need to be seen by your veterinarian. The sooner a wound is assessed, the better the prognosis in terms of good healing, reduced infection rates and rapid recovery.
• Burns – these need to be seen by a veterinarian as the risk of infection is high.
• Eye injuries.
• Wounds with a foreign object in them, such as a stick or glass shard. Do not attempt to remove these objects but seek veterinary help.

Small wounds, infected wounds and bite wounds all need veterinary attention, but are not classed as an emergency.

If your pet is injured, remain calm and try not to panic. Call your veterinarian and advise them of the problem and that you will be attending the surgery so that they know to expect you.

• Bleeding – apply pressure to a bleeding wound. Ideally use an absorbent dressing, but a clean tea towel is a good alternative. Keep firm pressure on the wound, even if you think the bleeding has stopped.
• Do not attempt to remove foreign objects from a wound, or clean them unless they are very minor.
• ​Apply cold water to burns if you can immediately, but do not let this delay you from seeking veterinary help.

Remember, injured pets will be distressed and in pain. They may panic, or become aggressive. Wrap a blanket or towel around cats and small dogs to restrain them, and hold them gently but firmly to prevent them from moving around too much. You can use a large towel or blanket as a stretcher to lift large dogs into a car, if they are struggling with mobility due to injury. Try to keep pets calm and still until you get them seen by a veterinarian.

If you are unsure whether a wound or injury needs treatment, seek advice from a veterinary professional.