Wounds

Wounds of unknown origin are not uncommon and may be due to encountering other animals, running into sharp objects (barbed wire, sticks, thorns, etc).  Bleeding wounds on feet, ears and tails often require stitches to get the bleeding under control. 

All wounds require cleaning. 

When there are large wounds or subcutaneous pockets, thorough irrigation of the wounds in necessary and this may require local or general anesthesia.  Drains may need to be placed in certain types of wounds. 

Very fresh wounds can often be fully closed and may not require antibiotics;  older or obviously infected wounds may not be so easily managed and performing a culture to guide antibiotic therapy will often be recommended.  Some wounds invite self mutilation or are in difficult areas.  Bandaging may be required with various dressings (including honey or sugar in some cases);  dressings may need to be changed frequently in early phases of wound treatment. 

Pet Poisonings: Algae | Antifreeze | Chocolate | Easter Lily, Other Lily plants, and Cats | Garbage Intoxication | Grapes and Raisins | Household and Prescription Medications | Lawn and Garden Chemicals | Mushrooms | Poinsettias | Potpourri Oils | Rodent Poisons | Varmint Poisons, Other | Xylitol toxicity