Home » Symptoms » Cat Symptoms A-Z » Raised Wounds

Raised Wounds in cats

In cats, “raised wounds” refer to skin lesions that protrude above the normal skin surface due to swelling or proliferation. They can arise from a variety of causes and vary in size, shape, and color.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Skin Ulcer (Ulcer of the Skin)

Basics and possible causes

Raised wounds in cats can be caused by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include allergic reactions, infections, or immunological disorders. External factors can be injuries, insect bites, or chemical irritations.

A common cause of raised wounds is allergic reactions. Cats can be allergic to a variety of substances, including pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or flea bites. An allergic reaction can lead to inflammation of the skin, which manifests as a raised wound.

Infections, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, are also common causes of raised wounds. For example, a bacterial infection can develop from a small, untreated wound, which then swells and becomes raised. Viral infections such as feline herpesvirus can cause skin lesions that appear raised.

Neoplasms, i.e., tumors, can also cause raised skin changes. These can be benign or malignant and vary greatly in their appearance. An example of a benign tumor is a lipoma, while a malignant tumor could be squamous cell carcinoma.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Itching: Many raised wounds are associated with severe itching. The cat may scratch or lick excessively, which further irritates the wound.
Redness: The affected area may be reddened, indicating inflammation.
Hair loss: Hair loss may occur around the raised wound, often due to constant licking or scratching of the affected area.
Discharge of fluid: Some raised wounds may secrete fluid that may be clear, bloody, or purulent.
Behavioral changes: The cat may be irritated or restless. In some cases, it may withdraw or be less active.

When to visit the vet?

A visit to the vet should be considered if the raised wound does not heal within a few days or if it worsens. Also, if the cat shows signs of pain, excessive itching, or general malaise, a veterinary examination is advisable.

An immediate visit to the vet is necessary if the cat develops fever, the raised wound bleeds heavily, or shows signs of a severe infection such as pus formation or foul odor. A vet should also be consulted immediately if a tumor is suspected.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

It is important for the pet owner to observe the raised wound closely and document changes in size, color, or consistency. The cat’s behavior should also be closely observed to provide valuable information to the veterinarian.

The veterinarian will first perform a thorough clinical examination. Depending on the initial findings, further diagnostic tests may be required, such as skin scrapings, cytology, or biopsies, to determine the exact cause of the raised wound. Blood tests can also be helpful to rule out systemic causes.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

The pet owner can first try to keep the affected area clean to prevent secondary infection. This can be done by gently cleaning the wound with an antiseptic solution specifically designed for animal skin.

It is advisable to prevent the cat from licking or scratching the wound excessively. This can be achieved by applying a protective collar (Elizabethan collar). Distracting the cat with toys or activities can also help minimize the behavior.

The cat’s diet should be checked to ensure that it receives all the necessary nutrients needed for healthy skin and a strong immune system. In some cases, a hypoallergenic diet may be helpful, especially if a food allergy is suspected.

If the wound was caused by insect bites or allergic reactions, the veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to relieve itching and inflammation. It is important to administer such medications only after consulting with the veterinarian to avoid side effects or overdoses.

Outlook on current research

Current research is intensively investigating why some wounds appear raised in cats. One theory suggests that the raised nature of such wounds is related to how feline tissue responds to injury. It is believed that certain cells, called fibroblasts, are activated to an excessive degree. These cells are responsible for the production of collagen, a protein that is crucial for wound healing. If too much collagen is formed, this can lead to thickening and elevation of the wound.

In addition, the role of genetics in the formation of raised wounds is being investigated. Some cat breeds may be genetically predisposed to developing such wounds, which could indicate a specific gene expression. Researchers are working to identify the genetic markers responsible for this reaction. These findings could be used in the future to develop targeted therapies that prevent the formation of raised wounds.

Another focus of research is on environmental influences. Factors such as diet, stress, and general health conditions of cats can affect wound healing. Scientists are investigating whether a balanced diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals can help reduce the tendency to develop raised wounds. The role of stress hormones is also being investigated, as they may interfere with the healing process and lead to abnormal wound formation.

Modern techniques such as gene sequencing and proteomics are being used to better understand the molecular mechanisms behind the formation of raised wounds. These technologies allow researchers to observe the exact biological processes in the cells involved in wound healing. Initial results suggest that the regulation of inflammatory processes plays a key role. A better understanding of these processes could lead to the development of new treatment strategies.

Another aspect of the research is the study of the microflora on the skin of cats. It is believed that the microbiome, i.e., the community of microorganisms that live on the skin, has an influence on wound healing. Changes in the composition of this microflora could be associated with the formation of raised wounds. Future studies could aim to develop probiotic treatments that positively influence the microbiome and thus support normal wound healing.

In summary, research on raised wounds in cats is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses genetics, environmental factors, cell biology, and microbiology. Advances in these areas could lead to new treatment methods that not only treat the symptoms but also address the underlying causes.

Frequently asked questions

Why are some wounds raised in cats? Raised wounds in cats can result from excessive collagen production during healing. This excess formation of tissue causes the wound to protrude beyond the normal skin level.
Are raised wounds dangerous in cats? Raised wounds are generally not dangerous but may indicate an unusual healing response. It is advisable to see a veterinarian to rule out potential complications.
How can I treat raised wounds on my cat? Treatment of raised wounds may include the application of special ointments or gels that regulate collagen production. In some cases, laser therapy may be considered.
Can raised wounds leave scars? Yes, raised wounds can lead to scar tissue formation. The resulting scar may remain raised, which is referred to as a keloid.
Is it normal for my cat to lick the raised wound? Cats often lick their wounds, which can interfere with the healing process. It is important to prevent this to avoid infections or further injury.
Do raised wounds in cats always get bigger? Raised wounds may appear larger in the healing process but should not continue to grow over time. If this is the case, a veterinarian should be consulted.
Can stress affect the formation of raised wounds? Yes, stress can affect the healing process in cats and may contribute to the formation of raised wounds by causing hormonal changes in the body.
Do allergies play a role in raised wounds? Allergies can lead to skin reactions that impair wound healing and promote the formation of raised wounds.
Can raised wounds in cats heal on their own? Raised wounds may regress over time, but it is important to have them monitored by a veterinarian to ensure that no complications arise.
Are there preventive measures against raised wounds? A healthy diet, stress management, and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent the formation of raised wounds in cats.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.