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My cat's shoulder is swollen. What could be the cause and treatment?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 5 lbs

My cat has a bad swollen shoulder

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 26, 2018

I am so incredibly sorry this has happened to your cat Opie. I would start by placing an e-collar on him straight away so he can't bite or lick the area. This will cause further tissue trauma and may introduce infection. Cat swellings are often related to an abcess. Which is an accumulation of Bacteria and dead and dying white blood cells. This can happen as a result from an altercation with another cat. This forms puss and accumulates when wounds close over infection, under the skin, until it bursts. It could also be a primary issue with the bone underneath the skin, especially if Opie is having difficulty walking.

Due this high likelihood for an abcess, as well as a bone or joint issue, I would advise taking Opie to the veterinarian as soon as you can. The vet will clean the area, and if it’s an abcess willdo so by flushing it with saline. The vet may need to place a surgical drain in order to prevent pus building up and an abcess reforming. The vet can also prescribe medications such a as antibiotics, pain relief, and anti-inflammatories to make Opie comfortable and help the healing process.

I hope this information was helpful and that Opie heals well.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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