An abscess is a pocket of infection that contains pus. Abscesses are caused by bacteria deposited under the skin usually by a small puncture (bite wound or scratch). These small punctures often heal quickly and go unnoticed. When this happens bacteria becomes trapped under the skin. The combination of the growing bacteria and the body's attempt to fight the bacteria causes the accumulation of pus in the area. Abscesses may be small or large, single or multiple. An abscess in the skin feels hot, looks red and swollen, and is painful. Some abscesses are not noticed until the pressure under the skin builds up to the point that the abscess ruptures open and pus can be seen draining out.
Treatment Information:
Abscesses may require both surgical and medical treatment, depending on their size, location, stage of development, and effect on the animal.
Some small abscesses can be managed with antibiotics alone. In other cases a Culture and Sensitivity is necessary to identify the bacteria and the antibiotic that bacteria is most sensitive to.
More often large abscesses require anesthesia and surgical drainage. Occasionally opening and flushing the abscess may be all that is necessary. Depending on the size or location, other abscesses will require the placement of a drain to keep the incision open and help prevent the build up of pus once the abscess is opened and cleaned.
The incisions in the skin will need to be flushed twice daily until the "drain" is removed (usually 3-5 days). Flushing the drain can be done at home or your pet is welcome to stay at the center until the drain is removed.
Recommendations:
Pets that are allowed to roam outside and pets that are not neutered or spayed are at higher risk for fighting and subsequent abscess formation. We recommend all pets be confined to a safe area and those not intended for breeding be spayed or neutered.