Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 3/17/2009

Question
I have a cat that had a below the ear/neck area abcess 1 month ago. It was
drained & treated with antibiotics. The wound site appeared to be completely
healed & my cat seemed/acted fine. But a few days ago (tho it was raining)
seemed to want to stay in bed, appetite decreased. I thought he was
depressed about the rain. (he loves to be outside). Tonight I noticed the
same area is beginning to swell again. It's easy to check due to the fact that
his fur is only beginning to grow back. Is it common for an abcess to come
back? What causes this? Even after seeming to be fine after 10+ days of
antibiotics, could he need a different dose/brand? When do I know infection
is present? Does the abcess cause infection or vice versa?

Answer
Tonya -

The infection causes the abscess.  It is not uncommon for an abscess to recur in a cat.  Most likely the abcess did not drain well and that caused the abscess to recur.  

I am  not aware of what medicine your veterinarian prescribed, but your kitty will probably need meds again.  

Infection is definitely present because the abscess is there. Your veterinarian can help you manage your cat's recurrent abscess.  

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM