Editor’s note: The University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital is a sponsor of Chambanamoms.com.
Pets are naturally curious, playful, and sometimes a little reckless, which means that wounds and lacerations are unfortunately common in both dogs and cats. Knowing how to recognize and respond to these injuries — whether a minor scrape sustained during a rough play session, a bite wound, or an extensive laceration — can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery.
Common Causes of Wounds and Lacerations
Wounds can arise in pets in many ways:
- Bite wounds from other animals, often during fights or rough play.
- Lacerations from sharp objects, such as fences, glass, or metal.
- Abrasions or road rash from skidding on rough surfaces.
- Punctures, such as stepping on a nail or being poked by a stick.
- Self-inflicted wounds caused by excessive licking or scratching.
Some wounds may look small on the surface but looks can be deceiving. Puncture wounds, for example, often carry bacteria deep into the tissue, which can lead to serious infections if left untreated.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Wound
While some injuries are clearly visible, others may be hidden under fur. Watch for these subtle signs.
- Bleeding or swelling
- Limping or reluctance to move
- Licking, chewing, or scratching a particular area
- Signs of pain, such as whimpering, hissing, or hiding
- Discharge or a foul smell from the wound
If you suspect your pet has a wound, a closer look and a veterinarian’s evaluation are often necessary.
What to Do If Your Pet Is Injured
When examining your pet, protect yourself by restraining the pet’s mouth or claws using a muzzle or heavy towel. Even the gentlest pets may bite or scratch when in pain.
For superficial wounds or abrasions (wounds that don’t go all the way through the skin):
- Control bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
- Clean the wound with saline or lukewarm water. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can sting as well as damage tissue.
- Seek veterinary care within 24 hours.
- Consider placing an Elizabethan collar or “cone” to prevent your pet from further traumatizing the area.
For deep wounds or lacerations (wounds with considerable bleeding and/or with exposed muscle, bone, or fat):
- Control bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
- DO NOT clean the wound unless directed by a veterinarian.
- Apply a water- or saline-soaked compress. Do not remove it until you reach the veterinarian.
- Transport to a veterinarian as soon as possible! Placing a muzzle and/or using a heavy towel to protect yourself is advised.
Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the wound and determine the best course of treatment. Many pets will require pain medication and sedative injections to help keep them more comfortable as well as to facilitate adequate evaluation and treatment. This might include cleaning and debriding the wound, suturing lacerations, prescribing antibiotics or pain medications, and possibly placing a drain to prevent fluid buildup.
Preventing Wounds
While not all injuries can be avoided, some precautions can help reduce the risk:
- Supervise outdoor time, especially in areas with sharp objects or other animals.
- Keep your yard and home free of hazardous debris.
- Regularly trim your pet’s nails to prevent self-inflicted scratches.
- Monitor interactions between pets to prevent fights.
Final Thoughts
Wounds and lacerations may seem minor, but they can quickly become serious if not properly treated. Prompt veterinary care ensures proper healing and reduces the risk of infection or complications.
If you’re ever unsure about a wound, it’s always safer to have your veterinarian take a look. Your pet depends on you to keep them safe and healthy — and when it comes to wounds, early action can make all the difference.
The University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers a full range of emergency, specialty, urgent and primary care for dogs and cats, horses, zoological companion animals and farm animals within its Large and Small Animal Clinics and Veterinary Medicine South Clinic. The Urgent and Convenient Care service, led by Dr. Canaan Shores, is located in the South Clinic, 2100 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana, across from Hazelwood Drive from the Large and Small Animal Clinics. The Urgent and Convenient Care service see dogs and cats. Its hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (217) 244-2555 if you need to see the urgent care veterinarian.