Abrasions

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Abrasions occur when the very superficial layers of the skin are scraped causing a minor area of inflammation, surface bleeding and bruising.  While most abrasions are considered mild and only involve the top few layers of skin, abrasions can be severe and involve several layers of the skin and can do serious damage to some of deeper tissue layers.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

Abrasions can be caused from your pet scratching or chewing at an area causing an abrasion type of sore or your pet can also cause abrasions from jumping fences, fighting, or being dragged by an auto or on a leash.  In most cases abrasions are minor and can be treated at home and heal uneventfully.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Surface of the skin is scraped, scratched and usually some bruising is present.
  
  
• Area of abrasion will most likely have hair loss present.
  
  
• May have some bleeding and oozing at the wounded area.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose most wounds by sight on a physical exam.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

The first two objectives in wound treatment are:

• Stopping the bleeding
  


• Preventing infection
  
  

Your veterinarian or veterinarian technician will most likely do the following:

1. Clip the hair around the area and clean the wound with antiseptic or antibacterial soap and water to remove dirt, debris and dried oozing discharge.  (You may notice the veterinary technician will put a large glob of KY Jelly right on top of the wound before he/she clips the hair, this is done to protect the area from any additional dirt and hair getting into the wound while clipping.)
   
   


2. Most abrasions will be treated with topical antibiotics over a course 7-10 days.  It is not uncommon to also give oral pain medication and oral antibiotics to help combat a major infection from breaking.  (If the area if quite painful, your veterinarian may choose to use a mild sedative or general sedation during the clipping and cleaning process.)
   
   

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

First-Aid Tips

Wounds are painful, be CAUTIOUS when treating your pet with a wound.  It is advisable to use a muzzle and get someone to help restrain your pet so you don’t get bitten!

1. You can clean an abrasion by just using warm antibacterial soap and water.  Gently rub the area removing dirt and debris.  Pat the area dry, be careful not dislodge any blood clots that have formed, as you will cause the area to bleed again.


2. Apply a triple antibiotic to the area twice a day and the abrasion should clear in a week or so.


3. Make sure you pet does not lick or scratch at the area. You may want to put a light bandage over it for protection.


4. Transport your pet to the closest animal hospital for treatment.

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