How to Treat and Prevent Burns in Cats: A Detailed Guide

It is very rare for our cat to get burned., although we know that he is very curious, it is rare for him to expose himself to the danger of a burn. However, there are situations where this can happen, especially with hot liquids, chemicals or even fire in the kitchen. Fortunately, his thick fur offers him some protection, but it is not infallible. It is important to always be alert and prevent accidents that can lead to a burn of any kind.

Types of burns in cats

There are different types of burns that can affect cats, depending on the source that causes them. Identifying the type of burn is crucial to applying the appropriate treatment. The main types of burns in cats are:

thermal burns: Caused by contact with heat sources such as boiling water, hot oil or fire. These are the most common in the home, especially in the kitchen.
Chemical burns: Caused by cleaning products, acids or alkalis, these burns can be dangerous as they affect not only the skin, but also internal tissues.
Electrical burns: They occur when the cat comes into contact with electrical cables. It is common in cats that bite cables. Electricity can cause damage both internally and to the mouth and tongue.
Cold burns: Although less common, they are possible if the cat is exposed to extremely low temperatures for prolonged periods.

Chemical burns in cats

In the event that the cat has been burned with ChemicalsThe most important thing is to act quickly to minimize damage. Chemicals can be extremely corrosive, affecting not only the skin, but also the eyes, mouth and respiratory tract if contact has been more extensive.

Steps to treat a chemical burn:

Wash immediately: Rinse the affected area with plenty of warm water to dilute and remove the chemical. Do this for at least 15 minutes.
Neutralization: In the case of burns caused by specific acids or alkalis, neutral solutions such as baking soda or vinegar can be applied. This measure should only be taken if the product requires it and following specific instructions.
Avoid home remedies: It is important not to apply home remedies or non-prescription creams, as they can make the burn worse.

Burns from electric shock

Burns from electricity They are caused when the cat bites wires that are connected to the current, which can cause burns to the tongue, mouth and nearby areas. Electrical burns are especially dangerous as they can lead to internal complications.

If you suspect your cat has suffered an electric shock, it is essential to see a vet immediately. Shocks can seriously affect internal organs.
In addition to visible burns to the mouth or tongue, a strong shock can be fatal.

These burns can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Muscle spasms
Breathing difficulties
Visible burns on the mouth and tongue
loss of consciousness

Depending on the severity of the discharge, the consequences can be fatal for the cat.

First aid for burns in cats

In the event that your cat has been burned, it is vital to act quickly to minimize the damage. Below we provide a first aid guide for the first actions to take:

Cool the burn: Apply cold water or an ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the burn. Never use ice directly or apply butter or creams without your veterinarian's recommendation.
Vaseline for minor burns: For minor or first-degree burns, a thin layer of Vaseline may be applied to protect the skin and relieve pain. Do not use other products without consulting a veterinarian first.
Haircut around the wound: If your cat allows it, try trimming the hair around the burned area to prevent the hair from coming into contact with the injury and irritating it further.

Preventing burns in cats

The best treatment for burns in cats is prevention. Here are some steps you can take to prevent your cat from being involved in these types of accidents:

Protect electrical cables: Use protective covers for cables and make sure they are out of reach of cats to prevent them from chewing on them.
Prevent access to the kitchen during cooking: The kitchen is one of the most dangerous places for cat burns because they can jump on the stove or get close to hot liquids. Keep the door closed while cooking.
Storing chemicals properly: Cleaning products and other chemicals should be stored in places where cats cannot access them.
Prevent them from going outdoors without supervision: Campfires, fires, or even contact with hot surfaces can be a fatal risk for cats living in outdoor areas.

It is essential to anticipate all possible situations that could endanger our pets. If you have any doubts or if your cat has suffered a burn, it is best to go to the vet as soon as possible to ensure that it receives the appropriate treatment and to avoid long-term complications.

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