Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 9/15/2005

Question
Recently, I found my cat with a sore on its skin that looks like a scurb. I didnt look bloody but the hair was matted like it was wet. His shoulder area looks red and looks as if some hair may have been removed. I felt around the sore area and the fur was stiff. Plasma maybe? He seems to be walking and going about his business ok. He's a bit traumatized but is still eating. He will cry when I get too close to touch the affected area. Im wondering if its serious enough to take him to the vet, or if there is any home remedy I could do. Someone told me to try and use "Neosporin" or some type of topical ointment on it but I'm afraid he will lick it and get sick. What about using aloe straight from the plant? Is that safe? By the way, this cat is a stray I've been feeding.

Answer
Without an examination it is hard to tell what this is.  if the cat got injured, then it may be an abrasion or laceration that has congealed serum. Some of these injuries lead to abscesses and fever.  If it is a mass lesion, then it may need removing.