Burn
Burn
Burns are tissue damage caused by heat, flames, hot liquids, or contact heat. The severity depends on the depth and area and can lead to severe Pain, Fluid loss (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.) and infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Extensive or deep burns are life-threatening.
Burns are tissue damage caused by thermal, chemical, electrical, or radiation exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.. In dogs and cats, burns often occur through direct contact with heat sources, hot liquids, or electric shock. The severity of a burn is classified into degrees, with three main degrees being distinguished. First-degree burns (superficial), second-degree burns (burn of the skin into deeper areas) and third-degree burns (penetrating the entire skin). When assessing the severity, both the depth and the extent of the burn play a crucial role. Burns that affect more than 15% of the body surface are particularly critical, as they can lead to systemic complications such as Fluid loss (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.), electrolyte imbalances and shock. The skin, as the largest organ in the body, fulfills important protective functions, the impairment of which by burns can have serious consequences.
Causes
Burns in pets are caused by various factors. Thermal burns are the most common form and are caused by direct contact with fire or hot surfaces such as stovetops, irons or exhaust pipes. Scalding from hot liquids such as spilled cooking water, coffee or tea also occurs regularly. Chemical burns are caused by contact with corrosive substances such as household cleaners, battery acid or plant fertilizers, which are particularly insidious because they often continue to work unnoticed if the substance is not completely removed. Electrical burns from chewed power cords or defective electrical appliances often cause deep, punctiform entry wounds with severe internal damage. Sunburn is a particular problem in light-skinned, short-haired animals and animals with unpigmented skin areas, while frostbite can occur in cold climates. InhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. burns from inhaling hot gases or smoke in fires damage the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. and can lead to life-threatening complications.
Symptoms
Burn in dog and cat
Typical Symptoms:
- Redness, pain, swelling, blistering, edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition. formation
- Change in skin color in severe burns (white, gray, leathery, black)
- Fur singed, skin moist/charred depending on the degree, necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems.
- Licking, restlessness, Protective posture / guarding posture
Alarm signs:
- Large-scale burns, severe pain
- Burns in the face/mouth → airway risk
- Circulatory signs, hypothermia (especially small animals)
- Open, white/black skin areas (deep burn)
Escalation/course:
- Hours: EdemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition. increases, pain escalates
- 24–72 h: NecrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems. boundaries become visible, risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. increases
- Fluid loss (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.)/shock in larger areas → critical
The symptoms of burns vary considerably depending on the severity. First-degree burns show redness of the skin, slight swelling and tenderness. The animal shows discomfort and may lick or bite at the affected area. Second-degree burns are characterized by significant redness, severe swelling and blistering. The pain is intense, and the animals may exhibit Behavioral changes such as Aggressiveness or withdrawal. In third-degree burns, the skin appears white, gray, leathery, or charred. Paradoxically, these most severe burns may be less painful because the nerve endings have been destroyed. Systemic symptoms such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and shock can occur with extensive burns. InhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. burns manifest as shortness of breath, Cough, Gagging, and bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes. Electrical burns can lead to Cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., unconsciousness, or neurological symptoms, while chemical burns often cause progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. tissue damage, severe pain, and discoloration of the affected skin areas.
First Aid
- Mild burns often do not require veterinary treatment.
- However, remove the collar or other potentially chafing parts from the animal.
- Usually there is only redness of the skin. Cooling under running water, if possible, or with wet compresses (no ice) provide relief.
- Do not open any blisters. As long as they are closed, there is no infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
- If a blister opens on its own, clean it carefully with water and cover it. Do not use any fabric that releases fibers into the wound.
- When the redness of the skin has subsided, you can apply a soothing, anti-inflammatory lotion to the redness.
- Avoid hair sticking together.
- If you don’t want to shear, leave the reddened skin untreated and dry.
- Even mild burns can be quite painful, so pain therapy / analgesic therapyPain therapy / analgesic therapy includes methods and medications to relieve Pain in animals. The goal is to improve well-being and increase the quality of life of animals with acute or chronic Pain. should be arranged by a veterinarian.
- Skin and hair are clearly and possibly extensively damaged.
- The skin may be white, brown, dried, charred, or completely lost.
- Fresh, small Wounds can be cooled with water at room temperature.
What you should not do:
- Do n o t immerse the patient extensively in water for cooling. This can lead to hypothermia. There is a risk of breathing problems, shock, infections and more.
- Prevent hypothermia in large Wounds.
- Carefully wrap the patient in a clean towel or clean sheet.
- Veterinary treatment is essential for severe burns.
- Go to the vet.
When should you see a vet sooner?
→ Red for extensive burns, face/airway involvement, shock, or severe traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries..
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of burns begins with a thorough medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., in which the veterinarian asks about possible causes and the time of the incident. During the clinical examination, the severity of the burn is assessed based on the depth and extent. First-degree burns only affect the top layer of skin (EpidermisThe epidermis is the outer layer of skin that protects the body from environmental influences. It consists of several layers of keratinized cells and is responsible for the skin's barrier function.), second-degree burns extend into the dermis (dermis), and third-degree burns penetrate all layers of skin into the underlying tissue. Special diagrams are used to determine the affected body surface area, similar to the “rule of nines” from human medicine, but adapted to the anatomyAnatomy is the scientific study of the structure of living things. It deals with the construction and organization of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues. of dogs and cats. If inhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. burns are suspected, X-rays or bronchoscopies of the airways may be necessary. Electrical burns often require an ECG to check heart function, as Cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. is a common complication. Laboratory tests such as a blood count, electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium., and kidney values help to assess the animal’s systemic condition and identify complications such as dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse., electrolyte shifts, or incipient organ damage.
Further veterinary measures
If burns have destroyed the skin over a large area, its barrier function is missing in these areas.
This leads to more or less large losses of fluid and proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions.. The possible heat loss should not be underestimated. There is a risk of hypovolemic shock, sepsisSepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to damage to its own tissues and organ failure. and hypothermia.
In addition to intensive local therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for sepsisSepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to damage to its own tissues and organ failure. prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments., body temperature, fluid balance and proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. balance must be kept in equilibrium.
Pain therapy / analgesic therapyPain therapy / analgesic therapy includes methods and medications to relieve Pain in animals. The goal is to improve well-being and increase the quality of life of animals with acute or chronic Pain. must be continuous.
In some cases, surgical removal of dead skin (necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems. removal) is necessary. Large defects created as a result must be covered by special surgical techniques.
Supplements
The treatment of burns depends on the severity and extent of the injury. For first-degree burns, the focus is on pain relief, often through non-steroidalNon-steroidal refers to medications or substances that are not steroids and often have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antipyretic effects. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Pain and Inflammatory conditions. anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. and local cooling. Second- and third-degree burns require more intensive therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. First, the patient is stabilized with intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. to counteract dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and shock. Pain therapy / analgesic therapyPain therapy / analgesic therapy includes methods and medications to relieve Pain in animals. The goal is to improve well-being and increase the quality of life of animals with acute or chronic Pain. is performed with opioids, as these burns are extremely painful. Wound care includes careful cleaning with sterile saline solution and removal of dead tissue (debridement). Modern wound dressings such as hydrocolloid dressings, silver sulfadiazine creams or biological wound dressings made of fish skin grafts are used. Skin transplants may be necessary for extensive third-degree burns. Antibiotics are used specifically to prevent or treat infections. In the case of electrical burns, monitoring of heart function is essential. InhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. burns require oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and, if necessary, bronchodilatorsBronchodilators are medications that widen (dilate) the bronchi, thereby making breathing easier. They are typically used to treat respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).. Nutritional support is important because burn patients have an increased calorie requirement. In severe burns, hyperbaric oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. can support the healing process.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for burns depends largely on the severity, the affected body surface area, and the speed of treatment. First-degree burns usually heal within 7–10 days without Scar tissue formation. Second-degree burns take about 2–3 weeks to heal and may leave slight scars. For third-degree burns, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. should be more cautious; healing takes weeks to months and usually leads to significant Scar tissue formation with possible functional limitations. Burns that affect more than 50% of the body surface have a poor prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. despite intensive therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. Aftercare includes regular bandage changes, initially daily, later at longer intervals. PhysiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. may be necessary to minimize movement restrictions due to Scar tissue formation. Wound healingWound healing is the natural process of repairing tissue damage, occurring in phases including inflammation, tissue regeneration, and wound contraction, to restore tissue integrity. must be continuously monitored to detect complications such as infections early. For Scar tissue formation, special massage techniques and ointments can improve the elasticity of the skin. It is particularly important to protect the healing skin from sunlight, as it is particularly sensitive. The psychologicalPsychological refers to anything related to the mind or behavior. In veterinary medicine, this can include the study of animal behavior, including stress responses and behavioral disorders. care of the animal should not be neglected, as painful treatments can lead to anxiety and Behavioral changes.
Summary
Burns in dogs and cats are serious injuries that require different treatment approaches depending on the severity. They are divided into three degrees, with first-degree burns only affecting the EpidermisThe epidermis is the outer layer of skin that protects the body from environmental influences. It consists of several layers of keratinized cells and is responsible for the skin's barrier function., second-degree burns extending into the dermis, and third-degree burns penetrating all layers of the skin. Causes can be thermal, chemical, electrical, or radiation-related. Symptoms range from redness and Pain in mild burns to blistering, tissue necrosis, and systemic complications in severe cases. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by clinical examination and, if necessary, further diagnostics if concomitant injuries are suspected. Therapy includes pain management, fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., wound care, and, if necessary, surgical measures. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the severity and the affected body surface area. Careful aftercare with regular bandage changes and, if necessary, PhysiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. is crucial for optimal healing. Preventive measures such as securing heat sources in the household can help to avoid burns.
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of burn treatment in small animals is constantly evolving. A promising approach is the use of biological wound dressings made of fish skin, especially Tilapia skin, which is rich in collagen and has similar structures to human skin. These dressings promote wound healingWound healing is the natural process of repairing tissue damage, occurring in phases including inflammation, tissue regeneration, and wound contraction, to restore tissue integrity., reduce Pain, and provide protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. against infections. Stem cell therapies are becoming increasingly important, with mesenchymal stem cells being obtained from the animal’s adipose tissue or bone marrow and applied to the burn Wounds to promote tissue regeneration. In the field of wound dressings, antimicrobialAn antimicrobial substance is an agent that serves to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, or to kill them. Antimicrobials are frequently used to treat infections. dressings with controlled release of active ingredients are being developed to prevent infections and at the same time maintain a moist wound environment. Advances in pain therapy / analgesic therapyPain therapy / analgesic therapy includes methods and medications to relieve Pain in animals. The goal is to improve well-being and increase the quality of life of animals with acute or chronic Pain. include new formulations of local anesthetics with prolonged duration of action and innovative administration systems. Hyperbaric oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. shows positive effects on wound healingWound healing is the natural process of repairing tissue damage, occurring in phases including inflammation, tissue regeneration, and wound contraction, to restore tissue integrity. in studies by improving tissue oxygenation and promoting angiogenesis. Laser therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is also being researched to promote wound healingWound healing is the natural process of repairing tissue damage, occurring in phases including inflammation, tissue regeneration, and wound contraction, to restore tissue integrity. and reduce Scar tissue formation. These innovative approaches promise to improve treatment outcomes and shorten healing time for burns.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How do I recognize the severity of a burn in my pet?
First-degree burns are characterized by redness and slight swelling, second-degree burns by blistering, and third-degree burns by whitish, gray, or charred skin areas, often with reduced pain sensitivity. - What first aid measures can I take for a burn on my pet?
Gently cool small burns with lukewarm water (not ice cold), remove collars or other constricting objects, and take your animal to a veterinarian immediately for all but very superficial burns. - Can I apply home remedies such as butter or oil to burns?
No, these home remedies can contaminate the wound, trap heat, and delay healing. Use only products recommended by your veterinarian. - How long does it take for burns to heal in pets?
The healing time varies depending on the severity: first-degree burns heal in 7–10 days, second-degree burns in 2–3 weeks, and third-degree burns can take months. - Are certain dog or cat breeds more prone to burns?
Short-haired breeds and animals with light or unpigmented skin are more prone to sunburn. Brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds may be more at risk for inhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. burns. - How can I prevent burns in my pet?
Secure heat sources such as stovetops, open flames, and hot liquids, keep power cords out of reach, use sunscreen for sensitive animals, and store chemicals safely. - What long-term consequences can burns have in pets?
Possible consequences include Scar tissue formation, restricted movement due to scar contractures, chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Pain, fur loss in the affected area, and psychologicalPsychological refers to anything related to the mind or behavior. In veterinary medicine, this can include the study of animal behavior, including stress responses and behavioral disorders. traumas. - When is a skin transplant necessary for burned pets?
Skin transplants are considered for extensive third-degree burns if natural healing is not sufficient or would lead to severe functional limitations. - How do I recognize an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in a burn wound?
Signs of an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. include increasing redness, Swelling, and warmth around the wound, purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. or foul-smelling discharge, Fever, and increased Pain. - What special risks exist with electrical burns?
Electrical burns may appear small externally but can cause severe internal damage, especially to the heart (Cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems.) and nervous system. They always require veterinary care.
Literature
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in dogs and cats – A veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pp.
- Vaughn L, Beckel N. Severe burn injury, burn shock, and smoke inhalation injury in small animals. Part 1: Burn classification and pathophysiology. Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. 2012;22(2):179-186.
- Pavletic MM, Trout NJ. Bullet, bite, and burn wounds in dogs and cats. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 2021;51(3):661-689.
- Garzotto CK. Thermal burn injury. In: Silverstein DC, Hopper K, eds. Small Animal Critical Care Medicine. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2020:731-735.
- Hanson RR, Caldwell FT. Fish skin for treatment of partial thickness burns in dogs and cats. Veterinary Surgery. 2022;51(1):132-141.
- Quist EM, Tanaka H, Sommerfield LM, et al. Current treatments and future directions for managing canine and feline burn patients. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports. 2023;14:45-58.