Both conditions are caused by an infection that enters the body and results in the buildup of pus. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and E.Coli are usually to blame. Either way, this type of condition requires professional cat health advice.

Left untreated a dental abscess in your cat can be serious, leading to gum disease or damage to the teeth. Dental work may be required to remove the problem tooth and the general infection may also need to be treated with antibiotics.

For abscesses on the body itself, the biggest danger is infection. Often, cats will get an abscess if they are involved in a fight with another cat. This is particularly true with male cats that aren’t fixed, since they tend to be more territorial. You may notice the abscess first when you’re petting or brushing your cat. The lump can feel hard to the touch as the pus can be under quite a bit of pressure. This may cause some discomfort for your cat and he will want to attempt to itch or scratch it.

If the lump is opened accidentally, you may see pus and it won’t smell very good. It can range in color from yellow to a bloody red, depending on the type and severity of the infection. If you touch it, be sure you wash your hands with an anti-bacterial soap.

The best cat health advice for this is that it is best not to try to treat your cat yourself. Your vet will be able to take a sample of the pus and figure out exactly what’s causing it. He may also take an X-ray to see if there are any foreign bodies in the lump (another cat’s nail or tooth) that will slow or prevent recovery. If the lump is very hard your vet may elect to lance it to drain the puss. This is done with a local anesthetic to keep the cat still. Antibiotics are employed as a follow-up strategy.

If the wound is bad enough, your vet may also add a surgical drain so the pus can continue to drain from the wound. In many cases, the wound itself will simply remain open. It may look unsightly, but it will help your cat heal more quickly and completely. There are many illnesses which a loving cat owner can home treat however for this one, it is most advisable that the right cat health advice is sought.