I think she's had this for a few days. She goes through stages of not allowing anyone to see her, this is normal. But I finally saw her today and noticed a mat of hair and dried blood on her neck under her ear. So I soaked it and got it off, but I don't know if I need to take her in tonight, or if it can wait for the morning
It sounds like your cat has an open wound on her neck, which could stem from various causes such as a scratch, bite, or even an allergic reaction that led to excessive scratching. Given that the wound has been present for a few days and you’ve noticed dried blood and matting of hair, it's crucial to monitor it for any signs of infection.
Firstly, gently clean the wound with a saline solution or a mild antiseptic solution. It's best to avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can be too harsh and may delay the healing process.
Next, keep an eye out for any signs of infection. Increased redness, swelling, pus, or a foul odor are all indicators that the wound may be infected. If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Additionally, try to prevent your cat from licking or scratching the wound. You might need to use an Elizabethan collar, commonly known as a cone, to stop her from aggravating the wound further.
Given that the wound has been there for a few days, it would be wise to have it checked by a veterinarian to ensure it’s properly treated and to prevent any potential complications. If the wound appears to be worsening or if your cat seems to be in pain, lethargic, or not eating, I recommend taking her to an emergency vet tonight. Otherwise, it should be okay to wait until the morning for a vet visit.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.
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